Miami Beach Lawyers Holding Wrongdoers Accountable In Wrongful Death Cases
Last updated on May 15, 2025
Wrongful death is a devastating experience that can leave families feeling lost and helpless. It is a legal term that refers to the death of a person caused by the negligence, intentional actions or recklessness of another person or entity. In Florida, wrongful death laws provide a framework for families to pursue justice and compensation for their loss.
At Ford, Dean & Rotundo, P.A., our lawyers have a deep understanding of these laws and a record of achieving multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements in major cases in North Miami Beach and across the state. We believe every life is precious and should be treated with dignity and respect. When wrongful death occurs, we stand ready to hold wrongdoers liable.
Wrongful Death In Nursing Homes
Nursing homes must provide a healthy and safe environment for their residents. Unfortunately, there are nursing homes that do not meet this obligation, leading to preventable deaths. Since we have seen firsthand the severe consequences of nursing home negligence, our attorneys are committed to holding nursing homes accountable and ensuring that families receive the compensation they deserve.
We have vast experience in handling wrongful death cases involving nursing homes, including those related to falls, medication errors and pressure sores. Our team will work tirelessly to investigate the death of your loved one and build a compelling case against the responsible parties.
Wrongful Death In Assisted Living Facilities
Assisted living facilities must provide a safe and supportive environment for elderly individuals who require assistance with daily living activities. Such facilities must also protect their residents from harm. However, these facilities may fail to provide adequate care, which may cause wrongful deaths.
Our skilled lawyers have handled numerous wrongful death cases involving assisted living facilities, including those due to medication errors, falls and neglect. We will work closely with you to understand the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death and hold the responsible parties accountable. Our compassionate team will seek the truth and justice as you go through your wrongful death ordeal.
Wrongful Death By Medical Negligence
When health care providers fail to provide adequate care, they can be liable for medical negligence and the resulting wrongful death. Common examples of medical negligence in hospitals, emergency rooms, doctor offices and surgical centers that can lead to wrongful death include:
- Surgical errors or anesthesia mistakes
- Misdiagnosis of a medical condition or delayed diagnosis
- Failure to monitor a patient’s condition
- Medication errors or prescription mistakes
- Failure to provide adequate follow-up care
We understand that medical negligence can have tragic consequences, including the death of a loved one. Our attorneys will thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the demise and the events leading up to it and develop a tailored strategy to help you navigate this difficult situation.
Who Can File A Wrongful Death Claim In Florida?
Wrongful death claims are governed by the Florida Wrongful Death Act, including elder fatalities. This statute specifies that only the personal representative of the deceased individual’s estate has the legal right to file a wrongful death claim.
The personal representative is typically named in the decedent’s will or estate plan. If no such designation exists, the court will appoint a representative.
Once appointed, the representative can file the claim on behalf of the decedent’s surviving family members and their estate. Florida law defines survivors as close family members who rely on the deceased for support or companionship. Examples include:
- The surviving spouse can seek damages for loss of companionship, protection and emotional suffering.
- Minor children of the decedent can claim damages for loss of parental companionship, instruction and guidance.
- Adult children may also recover damages under specific circumstances, especially if there is no surviving spouse.
- If the decedent was a minor, parents can claim damages for mental pain and suffering (in some cases, parents of adult children may make a claim).
Other relatives or siblings who were financially or emotionally dependent on the decedent may also have standing for wrongful death damages.
What Compensation Is Available In A Florida Wrongful Death Claim?
Florida’s wrongful death laws allow claimants to seek compensation for a variety of losses caused by the wrongful act, negligence or breach of contract that led to the death.
- Medical expenses incurred before the decedent’s death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost earnings or benefits that the deceased would have provided
- Loss of support and services the decedent offered
- Pain and suffering (emotional damages) experienced by surviving family members
- Loss of companionship, guidance or protection for loved ones
- Loss of net accumulations – savings or investments they would have acquired had they lived – to the decedent’s estate
These damages can help relieve potentially severe financial impacts caused by the wrongful death, especially for minor children or dependent parents. Working with an experienced attorney can help you pursue all the available damages your family deserves in the wake of your loss.
Consult With Our Wrongful Death Attorneys For Free
It is essential to take immediate action on your loved one’s wrongful death. Our attorneys can provide compassionate representation to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation. Learn more about how we can help you in a free consultation, which you can schedule by calling us at 305-670-2000 or completing our online contact form.
