Mark Casto | June 3, 2026 | Wrongful Death
Wrongful death lawsuits can be difficult for a number of reasons. You have just lost a loved one, and the complexity of the legal process makes this emotional time even tougher. Your family may also be suffering financially, especially if the deceased was the household’s primary earner. Thankfully, you may be able to recover significant compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit.
Since these lawsuits can get extremely complex, you should always seek help from an experienced wrongful death lawyer who can help you through the process. Keep reading below to learn how to find the best wrongful death attorney for your situation.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
If your loved one has lost their life due to someone else’s negligence or intentional conduct, you may be able to recover damages through a wrongful death claim. However, not just anyone can file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Under Georgia law, those eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit are:
- Surviving spouse
- Surviving child(ren)
- Surviving parents
- Estate executor or administrator
Family members other than those listed above are not legally allowed to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Instead, the suit must be brought by the estate administrator.
Any compensation awarded as part of the claim would become part of the deceased’s estate. It would eventually be distributed to the heirs according to the terms of the deceased’s will or, if there was no valid will, the intestate succession laws of Georgia.
Choosing the Best Wrongful Death Attorney
When dealing with a wrongful death claim, you need an attorney who knows how to get results.
To find the best wrongful death attorney, you should:
Look for an Attorney with Wrongful Death Experience
Wrongful death cases are not easy. They are highly emotional and legally complex, and not every personal injury lawyer has the necessary experience to handle these types of claims. Find a lawyer who has specific experience handling wrongful death actions.
Ask the lawyer how many wrongful death claims they have handled, and also ask them about the results they have obtained in similar cases. Attorneys who practice in this area of the law understand the details of the Georgia wrongful death laws, and they can help maximize the value of your claim.
Examine the Attorney’s Reputation
Before deciding on a lawyer, be sure to check their reviews and ask around about their reputation. You can also contact the State Bar of Georgia to learn whether any disciplinary actions have been filed against the attorney. Look for an attorney who has a consistent record of positive reviews, especially those that mention communication, compassion, and results.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Many personal injury lawyers, including wrongful death attorneys, offer free consultations. This gives you an opportunity to learn more about the lawyer’s experience and ask questions that are relevant to your situation.
Ask the attorney all the right questions, such as:
- Will you handle my case, or will it be handed off to a junior attorney?
- What type of investigation will you perform?
- How will damages be determined as part of my claim?
- How long do you expect it will take to resolve my case?
- Should I expect to reach a settlement, or will my case go all the way to trial?
Asking these questions gives you a chance to determine whether you feel comfortable with the way your case will be handled. Remember that you do not have to hire the first lawyer you talk to. If you are uncertain, then talk to more than one attorney to find the best fit for your needs.
Make Sure You Understand the Fee Structure
Many wrongful death attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you typically do not pay attorney’s fees upfront. Before hiring a lawyer, make sure you understand how fees and case expenses will be handled and whether you may be responsible for any costs if the case is unsuccessful. A reputable attorney should be transparent about their fee structure, the expected timeline, and what you can expect throughout the process.
Contact the Columbus Wrongful Death Lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm for Help Today
Choosing the right attorney after losing a loved one can make a difficult process feel more manageable. A wrongful death lawyer can explain your rights, investigate the circumstances of your loved one’s death, and help your family pursue compensation.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm helps families in Columbus, GA, with wrongful death claims.
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus wrongful death lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808, Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030
