Losing a loved one due to another’s wrongful act, neglect, or misconduct is devastating. Washington State law allows surviving family members to file wrongful death lawsuits to seek compensation for their loss. However, these cases are complex, and grieving families often benefit greatly from the guidance and expertise of an experienced wrongful death attorney.
What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Washington?
A wrongful death lawsuit is a legal claim filed when a person dies because of someone else’s negligence or intentional wrongdoing. The goal is to hold the responsible party accountable and secure financial compensation to help survivors cover expenses such as medical bills, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering.
Because wrongful death claims involve intricate legal procedures and strict deadlines, it is critical to consult a qualified attorney as soon as possible. In Washington State, survivors generally have three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
How Do Attorney Fees Work in Wrongful Death Cases?
Many potential clients ask about how attorney fees are handled in wrongful death cases. Most wrongful death lawyers, including the attorneys at Kapuza Lighty, work on a contingency fee basis. This means:
- You pay no upfront attorney fees.
- The lawyer only receives payment if your case is successful—through a settlement or jury verdict.
- Attorney fees are calculated as a percentage of the total compensation awarded, typically between 33% and 40%.
- If the case is unsuccessful, you owe nothing in attorney fees.
This contingency fee arrangement allows families who may not have the financial resources upfront to access experienced legal representation and ensures lawyers are motivated to secure the best possible outcome for their clients.
Additional Costs and Expenses to Consider
Beyond attorney fees, wrongful death cases often involve other costs such as:
- Filing and court fees
- Medical record collection costs
- Transcription fees for depositions and hearings
- Fees for expert witnesses and investigators
- Process server charges
The total expenses vary depending on the case’s complexity. For example, medical malpractice-related wrongful death claims often require costly expert testimony, which can add significantly to overall expenses.
It’s important to discuss these potential costs with your attorney during your initial consultation. Some law firms bill clients monthly for expenses, while others deduct these costs from the final settlement. Make sure your contingency fee agreement clearly outlines how fees and expenses will be handled.
Why You Should Contact a Washington State Wrongful Death Lawyer Right Away
After the loss of a loved one, your focus should be on healing and supporting your family. However, because the law limits the time to file a wrongful death claim to three years in Washington, delaying action could jeopardize your right to pursue compensation.
An experienced wrongful death attorney can guide you through the legal process, help gather critical evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact Kapuza Lighty for Compassionate Wrongful Death Legal Help
If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, Kapuza Lighty’s wrongful death lawyers are here to help. We offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case and explain how our fee arrangements work.
Call us today at (509) 866-4166 or contact us online to schedule your confidential consultation.
