Wrongful Death Proceedings

If the deceased individual died as a result of the negligence or misconduct of another, the deceased’s heirs may be eligible to seek compensation for the estate. The proceeding initiated in court is known as a wrongful death proceeding. There are several important factors to consider in a wrongful death proceeding, including identifying the family members who will receive compensation. Our experienced attorneys make it a priority to make certain that the interests of the family members are protected and represented in wrongful death proceedings.

At Sweeney, Reich & Bolz LLP, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals and families who may be entitled to a wrongful death award or settlement. Equally important, our attorneys aggressively pursue full compensation for heirs who are entitled to inherit from the negligent death of a loved one. Our attorneys are fully prepared and experienced to handle every aspect of a wrongful death proceeding including kinship proceeding to determine the eligibility of individuals to participate in the recovery proceeding.

Wrongful death lawsuits must be commenced by a fiduciary and not individual family members. Anyone who is entitled under New York State laws of succession may be eligible to receive his or her share of a wrongful death benefit. If people were not named in the will or trust, or who are ineligible to inherit under New York succession law appear seeking to benefit from a wrongful death settlement or verdict, our attorneys are prepared to protect the rights and the inheritances of the rightful heirs of the deceased.

After careful analysis of the wrongful death claim in question and your rights as an heir of the deceased, our staff will assess your options with you and pursue the compensation you are entitled to.