Chesapeake Wrongful Death Lawyer
- Last Updated: 14 May. 2025
All too often, a sudden accident can result in the tragic loss of a loved one. When this loss occurs as a result of the wrongful actions of another, surviving family members of the accident victim may be able to bring a claim for compensation. A Chesapeake wrongful death lawyer from Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers can handle the legal aspects of your claim so you can focus your energy on your family and healing.
A wrongful death claim may allow you to hold the responsible parties accountable when their recklessness or carelessness caused the death of your loved one. Our compassionate Chesapeake personal injury attorneys can help you file a wrongful death claim against those at fault for the death of your loved one.
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Why Work With Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers?
When you lose a loved one unexpectedly, the emotional burden alone can be staggering. Filing a lawsuit to recover compensation for their death is often the last thing on a grieving family’s mind. At Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers, we’ll take on every aspect of your case so you have space and time to focus on healing.
When it comes to wrongful death lawsuits, our expertise is unparalleled. Founding partner John M. Cooper alone has over 30 years of experience handling injury cases in the Chesapeake area.
As a firm, we’re dedicated to securing full and fair compensation for families who have lost a loved one, ensuring that they receive the justice and financial support they deserve. We have a proven track record of high-value case results for wrongful death cases, showing our commitment to achieving justice for our clients.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Chesapeake
Under the Virginia wrongful death statute, deaths are legally considered wrongful when caused by the careless, reckless, or negligent behavior of others, whether the victim passes away immediately or eventually succumbs to their injuries. When a wrongful death occurs, the decedent’s personal representative can take legal action on behalf of surviving family members.
Wrongful death cases can result from many different types of accidents, including:
- Motor vehicle accidents — high-speed crashes on I-64, I-464, I-664, or U.S. 460 are often fatal.
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Railroad accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Premises liability — accidents or lax security at Greenbrier Mall, Chesapeake Square Mall, Wal-Mart, or any business in Chesapeake can result in serious injuries causing death.
A sudden death often results in a loss of income and essential long-term family support, as well as extensive medical and funeral expenses. This can immediately threaten your financial stability. Holding others responsible for their wrongdoings can be crucial to your family’s future. Our diligent wrongful death lawyers in Chesapeake can help you pursue compensation for your loss and provide for your future.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Virginia?
The decedent’s personal representative must file a wrongful death claim on behalf of the surviving family members. We can help with the the process of having a personal representative appointed too. Virginia law specifies who is entitled to wrongful death damages. In the absence of immediate family, other relatives of the decedent may qualify. “Statutory beneficiaries” may include:
- Surviving spouse and children.
- Surviving grandchildren.
- Surviving parents and siblings.
- Any dependent relative who lived with the deceased.
- Survivors with inheritance rights under Virginia’s intestate succession laws.
How Long You Have to File a Claim
The Virginia wrongful death statute of limitations is normally two years from the date of death. You cannot pursue wrongful death damages if you do not file before the correct deadline.
The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can build a strong case and ensure it is filed on time. Once you contact our dedicated Chesapeake wrongful death attorneys, we can take care of the details so you can focus on your family.
Damages in Wrongful Death Cases
No amount of money can make up for the loss of a loved one. However, the law provides an avenue toward justice, accountability, and compensation. Compensable wrongful death damages include:
- Sorrow, mental anguish, and solace
- Loss of companionship, comfort, and guidance
- Medical expenses for treatment prior to death
- Grief and emotional trauma
- Loss of income and support
- Funeral and burial expenses
Additionally, punitive damages may be available in cases involving extreme misconduct by the defendant. For example, they may be available if the defendant in a drunk driving accident has a history of DUI accidents. Our Chesapeake wrongful death lawyers can help your family pursue comprehensive damages and fight for maximum compensation for your suffering and unexpected loss.
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Let a Chesapeake Wrongful Death Attorney Assist You
No amount of money can truly compensate you for the death of a loved one. Nonetheless, obtaining compensation from those responsible for your loss can provide you and your family financial security and peace of mind.
Although securing legal counsel and compensation through a wrongful death action may not be your first concern after a sudden and tragic loss, it is crucial. While you focus on mourning the loss of your loved one, Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers will focus on protecting your rights and your family’s future. Contact our Chesapeake wrongful death lawyers today for a free case evaluation by calling (757) 333-3333 or filling out our online contact form.
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