Raleigh Wrongful Death Lawyer

Losing a loved one due to someone else's negligence is an unimaginable tragedy. At Etheridge Law PLLC, we provide strategic and compassionate legal representation for families pursuing wrongful death claims in Raleigh. While no lawsuit can ever replace a lost loved one, holding the responsible party accountable can provide financial security and a sense of justice.

If your family is facing unexpected financial burdens due to a wrongful death, we are here to help you seek maximum compensation while you focus on healing.

What is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim arises when a person’s death is caused by another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. These claims are meant to compensate surviving family members for financial and emotional losses.

Wrongful death cases often stem from:

  • Car and truck accidents

  • Medical malpractice

  • Workplace accidents

  • Defective products

  • Nursing home abuse and neglect

  • Criminal acts, including assault and homicide

If your loved one’s death was caused by another person or company’s negligence, we will fight for the justice your family deserves.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in North Carolina?

Under North Carolina General Statute § 28A-18-2, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative (executor) of the deceased’s estate. If the deceased did not have a will naming an executor, the court may appoint a representative—often a surviving spouse, child, or parent.

The lawsuit is brought on behalf of the deceased’s beneficiaries, who may include:

  • The surviving spouse

  • Children of the deceased

  • Parents of the deceased

  • Other heirs as defined by North Carolina intestacy laws

If you are unsure whether you can file a wrongful death claim, we can evaluate your situation and guide you through the legal process.

What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Wrongful death claims in North Carolina seek compensation for both economic and non-economic losses, including:

1. Financial Losses

  • Medical expenses incurred before death

  • Funeral and burial costs

  • Loss of income and benefits the deceased would have earned

  • Loss of services, protection, care, and assistance the deceased provided to their family

2. Emotional & Non-Economic Losses

  • Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death

  • Loss of companionship, guidance, and affection for surviving family members

3. Punitive Damages (in Some Cases)

If the death was caused by willful, wanton, or malicious conduct, North Carolina law allows for punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.

How Etheridge Law PLLC Can Help

Pursuing a wrongful death claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re grieving. Etheridge Law PLLC provides compassionate and aggressive advocacy to ensure your family receives the justice and compensation you deserve.

Here’s how we help:

  • Investigating the Case – We gather medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony to build a strong case.

  • Handling Insurance Companies – We negotiate with insurers so you don’t have to.

  • Filing the Lawsuit – If necessary, we will take your case to court to fight for full compensation.

  • No Fees Unless We Win – You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for your family.

Contact Etheridge Law PLLC Today

If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, we are here to help. You deserve answers, accountability, and justice.

📞 Call (910) 668 - 2585 for a Free Consultation.