While it's not strictly necessary, having a lawyer can really help navigate the process and increase your chances of getting a fair outcome. It's like having a guide through the legal maze.
Yes, you can still file a claim, but the amount you can recover may be reduced based on the deceased's share of fault. It's a bit like splitting the blame, but you still have a chance.
In Colorado, you generally have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. It's important to act sooner rather than later, as time can slip away faster than you think.
You need to show that the death was caused by someone else's actions, that those actions were negligent or intentional, and that the family suffered as a result. It boils down to showing the connection between the dots.
Typically, the surviving spouse, children, or sometimes parents of the deceased can file a wrongful death lawsuit. It's like having a legal right to stand up for your loved one.
A wrongful death claim is a legal way for the family of someone who has passed away due to someone else's negligence or misconduct to seek compensation for their loss.