Wrongful Death: When Negligence Takes a Life, We Help Families Find Justice

Personal Injury Lawyers Serving Families Across Indiana, Ohio, & Michigan

There is nothing more devastating than the sudden loss of a loved one or a child. When that loss was preventable, caused by someone else’s negligence or reckless behavior, the grief is compounded by anger, confusion, and the overwhelming sense that something must be done.

At Connell Michael, LLP, we represent families in wrongful death cases with strength, sensitivity, and relentless determination. We can’t bring your loved one back—but we can help you hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the justice your family deserves.

What Is a Wrongful Death Case?

A wrongful death occurs when a person dies as the result of someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing. These cases are civil lawsuits filed by the surviving family members or the estate of the deceased, and they are designed to compensate for both emotional and financial harm.

Common examples of wrongful death include:

• Drownings at poorly supervised pools or camps
• Fatal child abuse or neglect in schools, daycares, or foster homes
• Criminal acts where a third party (like a business or property owner) failed to protect victims
• Lack of supervision at a group home or residential educational facility

Whether your loss resulted from a moment of carelessness or a pattern of negligence, we are here to help you uncover the truth and take action.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

A wrongful death claim is filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. The damages recovered are distributed to the surviving spouse, children, or other dependents, and in some cases, parents or siblings.

Wrongful death cases may be filed on behalf of:

• Adults who were financially supporting their families
• Children or minors whose future was wrongfully taken
• Individuals with disabilities or special needs

Our legal team can help you understand who is eligible to file a claim, how to begin the process, and what to expect every step of the way.

What Compensation Can Be Recovered?

No amount of money can make up for the loss of someone you love. But wrongful death compensation is intended to ease the burden on grieving families and provide long-term financial security. Compensation may include:

• Medical bills incurred before death
• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of income or future earning capacity
• Loss of benefits, including health insurance and retirement
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support
• Mental anguish suffered by survivors
• Punitive damages, in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm

We work with economists, grief experts, life care planners, and other professionals to ensure that every loss—emotional and economic—is documented and pursued fully.