Honolulu Wrongful Death Lawyer
Find Justice with a Top Honolulu Wrongful Death Lawyer
The attorneys specializing in wrongful death cases at Shim & Chang in Honolulu possess extensive experience in representing families who have lost a loved one in a tragic accident. We understand that during such trying times, emotions like shock and sadness often take precedence over legal and financial matters. A wrongful death lawyer in Honolulu can assist you in securing fair compensation for your losses, allowing you to concentrate on your emotional healing.
Our law firm isn’t deterred by tough cases or formidable opponents. We successfully took on the City and County of Honolulu in a wrongful death lawsuit, securing nearly $1 million in damages for our client in a groundbreaking victory. You can rely on us to handle your case with the same level of determination and dedication to excellence.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Honolulu
In Hawaii, if someone dies due to the wrongful actions of another person or entity, their legal representative or qualifying family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit. This legal action seeks to hold the responsible party accountable for causing the death. If the deceased’s legal representative files the lawsuit, they can seek reimbursement for the reasonable expenses related to the deceased person’s final illness and burial.
When a family member, like a spouse, partner, child, or parent, files a lawsuit, they can also seek compensation for the emotional suffering and loss they’ve experienced. This may include:
- Loss of companionship, comfort, and support
- Loss of marital care, advice, and guidance
- Loss of a partner’s support and guidance
- Loss of a child’s care and guidance from their parent
- Loss of parental care, guidance, and education
Experienced personal injury lawyers in Honolulu, such as those at Shim & Chang, can help assess the potential compensation available for your loss. We understand the importance of holding those responsible for fatal accidents accountable. By taking legal action, we can push for changes in behavior and safety standards to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Common Causes of Fatal Accidents in Honolulu
In Honolulu, wrongful death cases often arise from a range of incidents. One of the most prominent causes is vehicle collisions, with contributing factors such as:
- speeding
- driving under the influence
- distracted driving
- the involvement of large commercial vehicles with issues like driver fatigue and improper maintenance.
Airplane accidents are another cause of death. In Hawaii, both small and large planes are commonly used for travel between the islands. However, although airplanes offer efficient transportation, they can pose significant risks if not properly equipped or maintained, or if pilots are negligent or irresponsible in their operation.
Additionally, workplace and recreational accidents account for a significant number of wrongful deaths, especially in hazardous industries like construction or activities such as:
- boating
- snorkeling
- scuba diving
- helicopter tours
Navigating the Legal Process with Your Honolulu Wrongful Death Attorney
The process of working with a wrongful death attorney encompasses several critical stages – from the initial consultation, and evidence gathering, to settlement negotiations, or possibly a trial. Every stage plays an integral role in the success of your wrongful death claim. Here’s a walkthrough of the process.
Initial Consultation
The first step in your journey to justice is the initial consultation. During this free meeting, you can discuss the situation and explore your legal options. This is an opportunity to assess the strength of your case and decide on the best course of action.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
After the initial consultation, your wrongful death attorney will embark on a detailed investigation of the incident and collect vital evidence. This phase can be complex, as it may involve dealing with conflicting witness statements and attempts by the liable parties to evade responsibility. The evidence gathered will be critical in building a compelling case.
Settlement Negotiations or Trial
Once the investigation is complete and evidence gathered, your attorney will negotiate a settlement with the at-fault party or their insurance company. Often, wrongful death claims are resolved without the need for a trial. However, if initial negotiations fail to produce a fair settlement, formal mediation can be a pivotal step toward resolution without entering the courtroom.
If negotiations or mediation fail to yield a fair settlement, your case will proceed to trial. Here, your attorney will advocate for justice on your behalf. Ultimately, a jury may determine the verdict and the compensation you deserve.
Contact our Skilled Honolulu Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
If you’ve experienced the loss of a loved one due to an accident, we understand the challenges you’re facing. Our team at Shim & Chang Attorneys at Law is here to provide you and your family with compassionate support and expert guidance during this difficult time. Contact us today to find out how we can support you in pursuing a wrongful death claim against those accountable for your loss. During a complimentary first meeting at our Honolulu office, we’ll assess the viability of your case and advise you on the most effective steps to seek the compensation you’re entitled to, helping to alleviate your financial burdens.