Ratings. Guidance. The Right Lawyer.
Which family member needs to file a wrongful death lawsuit?
Silvis, IL
Viewed 82 times.
Posted 8 months ago in Wrongful Death
Flag as objectionable
My brother was killed by a drunk driver last month. As a family, we would like to file some kind of wrongful death lawsuit, but aren't sure how to go about it. He was not married, had no will, and has 4 minor children. His ex wife wants to file the suit but so does my father. They both have only the children in mind, so does it matters who files? Or does one take precedence over the other? (My brotehr was 34 years old.)
Answers (3)
Bruce H Murray
This attorney is licensed in Massachusetts.
Posted 8 months ago.
Flag as objectionable
Only the administrator or executor of his estate can file suit
Alan James Brinkmeier
This attorney is licensed in Illinois.
Posted 8 months ago.
Flag as objectionable
I am sorry for your loss. The minor children need to be protected here. In Illinois the statute is very specific
quote Every such action shall be brought by and in the names of the personal representatives of such deceased person unquote Because he was not married at the time of his death consider the statute language quote the amount recovered in every such action shall be for the exclusive benefit of the surviving spouse and next of kin of such deceased person unquote The kids are next of kin and certainly must be protected. Alan James Brinkmeier 
Michael W. Clancy
This attorney is licensed in Illinois and 2 other states.
Posted 8 months ago.
Flag as objectionable
As I'm guessing you've gathered from the others, what happens is that someone has to be chosen by the court to be the representative. Being the representative in a wrongful death suit like this really just means that you sign certain documents which are necessary to move the case along. Settlements in wrongful death cases require court approval in Illinois, so no matter what the representative thinks any resolution of the case or distribution of the proceeds needs to be approved by a judge. The important thing is for the family to find an experienced, competent lawyer to handle the case. Once you find that person, he or she will get the family together, explain the process, and show everyone how they'll be involved and informed.
I'm sorry for your loss. Pick a really good lawyer and the rest will work itself out. Best of luck. Michael Clancy www.clancylaw.com |
