How Long Do Wrongful Death Cases Take to Settle?

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is devastating, changing your life in ways you never expected. When facing such overwhelming loss, you may gain some comfort knowing that you have rights under Florida law. Your legal remedy is termed a wrongful death claim, and you will go through the legal process to recover compensation. One major factor that affects the timeline of a lawsuit is Florida’s statute of limitations for wrongful death cases. You have two years to file a case in court. 

However, there are many other considerations when looking at how long it takes to resolve a wrongful death case. Your Miami wrongful death lawyer can explain how the following issues may affect the process.

Factors That Influence Wrongful Death Cases

The time it takes to settle a wrongful death case in Florida depends on several factors, including:

·         The complexity of the case

·         Number of parties involved

·         Willingness of insurance companies to negotiate

Cases involving disputes over liability or extensive investigations may take longer to resolve. Additionally, if a case proceeds to trial instead of settling out of court, the timeline may extend significantly.

Average Time to Settle Wrongful Death Cases in Florida

In Florida, wrongful death cases generally take several months to a few years to settle. Straightforward cases with clear liability and minimal disputes may be resolved in as little as 6-12 months. However, more complex cases, especially those involving significant damages or contested fault, could take 2-3 years or longer. The local court’s caseload and the cooperation of all parties involved can also impact the overall timeline. 

How the Legal Process Affects Settlement

The legal process for wrongful death claims in Florida involves several stages that can affect the timeline. These include filing a lawsuit, exchanging evidence during discovery, and negotiating with insurance companies.

Mediation or arbitration may help resolve cases faster, but if no agreement is reached, the case may proceed to trial. Each phase of the process can add weeks or months to the timeline, making it essential to work with a skilled Miami attorney to keep the case moving efficiently.

Tips to Expedite Your Wrongful Death Case in Florida

To speed up the settlement of a wrongful death case in Florida, gather all necessary documentation, such as medical records and accident reports, early in the process. Communicate promptly with your attorney and respond quickly to requests for information. Hiring an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Miami is crucial, as they can negotiate effectively with insurance companies and ensure compliance with Florida’s legal requirements, helping to reduce unnecessary delays.

Call Now to Speak to a Skilled Miami Wrongful Death Attorney

Contact Gerson & Schwartz, PA, a trusted personal injury law firm serving clients in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach. Our experienced wrongful death attorneys are ready to review your case and provide legal guidance. You can call (305) 371-6000 to speak with a lawyer or go online to schedule a free consultation. Our firm is ready to help you pursue justice and recover compensation during this challenging time.

Florida Justice Association
The National Center for Victims of Crime
outh Florida Legal Guide
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