Atlanta Wrongful Death Attorney

We Fight for Justice for Grieving Families in Atlanta

At Keith B. French Law, PLLC, our Atlanta wrongful death lawyer is a skilled, experienced, and compassionate advocate for grieving families. The loss of a loved one to a fatal accident is a terrible tragedy. Your family needs strong, experienced representation. If you have any questions about the wrongful death claims process in Georgia, we are here to help. Contact our Atlanta wrongful death attorney today for a free, no obligation initial consultation. 

A Wrongful Death Claim is a Civil Cause of Action

Losing a loved one to a fatal accident in Atlanta is a devastating tragedy. A wrongful death claim is a type of civil lawsuit brought when a person dies due to the negligent or intentional actions of another. In a civil wrongful death case, surviving family members can seek financial compensation for losses such as funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. A wrongful death claim in Atlanta is brought under Georgia law. It can be brought for many fatal accidents, including:  

• Car accidents; 
• Tractor trailer accidents; 
• Motorcycle wrecks; 
• Pedestrian collisions; 
• Fall accidents; 
• Medical malpractice; 
• Dangerous products; and
• Nursing home negligence. 

Understanding the Wrongful Death Laws in Georgia

It is crucial that families in Atlanta have a comprehensive understanding of Georgia’s wrongful death laws (O.C.G.A § 51-4-2). You may hear the statute referred to simply as the Georgia Wrongful Death Act. Here are key points to know about Georgia wrongful death claims: 

• Who Can File a Claim: Under Georgia law, the surviving spouse has the first right to file a wrongful death claim. If there is no surviving spouse, the right passes to the deceased’s children. If there is no surviving spouse and no surviving children, the parents of the deceased may bring the claim. In the absence of these parties, the administrator of the estate may file on behalf of the next of kin. If you are not sure who should file, our Atlanta wrongful death attorney can help. 
• Strict Time Limits Apply to Bring a Claim (Statute of Limitations): A wrongful death claim in Georgia must typically be filed within two years of the date of death. However, in some limited cases, certain factors—such as ongoing criminal investigations—may pause the clock. Do not wait to take action. You do not want to fall behind the insurance company in the civil legal claims process. 
• Wrongful Death Liability is Based on Negligent (Proving Fault is Essential): To prevail in a wrongful death case, the claimant must show that the death was caused by the defendant’s negligent or intentional conduct. Evidence of liability is key to a successful claim. Your family member’s fatal accident should be thoroughly investigated by an experienced Atlanta wrongful death attorney. 

What to Know About Wrongful Death Damages in Atlanta

There is no amount of compensation that could ever be enough to make things right after a fatal accident. At the same time, grieving families in Atlanta need justice and financial support. Our Atlanta, GA wrongful death lawyers help families pursue the maximum damages, including for: 

• Funeral and burial expenses; 
• Out-of-pocket medical costs; 
• Loss of financial support; 
• Loss of love; 
• Loss of companionship; 
• Loss of consortium; and
• Loss of parental guidance. 

How Atlanta Wrongful Death Lawyer Keith B. French Jr. Can Help

Dealing with the loss of a loved one to an accident that never should have happened is a terrible tragedy. It is crucial that grieving families have access to all available legal resources. In the aftermath of a wrongful death in Atlanta, families can rely on Keith B. French Jr. for compassionate, justice-focused legal representation. We are proactive. Our client testimonials tell the story. Among other things, our Atlanta wrongful death attorney is prepared to: 

• Conduct a free, comprehensive review and evaluation of your case; 
• Investigate the fatal accident in Atlanta—gathering evidence to prove liability; 
• Represent your family in any settlement negotiations with insurance companies; and
• Develop a personalized strategy driven to help you get justice and the best outcome. 

Atlanta Wrongful Death Cases: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Wrongful Death Cases Brought Under State Law?

Yes, a wrongful death case in Atlanta is handled  under state law. Specifically, they are governed by the Georgia Wrongful Death Act. That statute outlines who can file a claim and what types of damages may be recovered. As noted previously, a wrongful death claim is a type of civil lawsuit that allows surviving family members to seek compensation when a person’s death was caused by another’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. The laws and procedures for wrongful death cases vary from state-to-state. Grieving families in Atlanta need a lawyer who has a comprehensive understanding of Georgia law. 

What is a Survival Action Claim in Georgia?

In Georgia, a survival action is a separate legal claim that can be filed by the estate of the deceased. It allows recovery for damages the decedent suffered before death—such as medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. To be clear, a survival action case is different from a wrongful death claim. Wrongful death lawsuits are designed to compensate surviving family members for their personal losses due to the death. In contrast, a survival action belongs to the estate and any recovered compensation is distributed according to the will or Georgia’s intestate succession laws.

Can I Afford the Best Atlanta Wrongful Death Lawyer?

Yes. You can always afford to retain the best Atlanta wrongful death attorney after your loved one’s fatal accident. At Keith B. French Law, PLLC, we provide contingency fee representation to grieving families. Our firm does not charge upfront costs or out-of-pocket fees. If your family does not get paid, then our law firm does not get paid. Your initial consultation is free and fully confidential. 

Contact Our Atlanta Wrongful Death Attorney Today

At Keith B. French Law, PLLC, our Atlanta wrongful death lawyer is a compassionate advocate for justice. We help grieving families fight for justice and the maximum financial support. Contact us today for a free, completely confidential initial consultation. With an office in Atlanta, we handle wrongful death cases throughout all of Georgia.