Wrongful Death: Civil Claims vs. Criminal Charges

When you’ve lost a beloved family member due to someone else’s negligence, you have a right to consider all options. If you’re confused about the chief considerations for civil claims versus criminal charges for a wrongful death, read on. 

Understanding the Difference Between Wrongful Death Claims and Criminal Charges

When a loved one passes away, the pain can be overwhelming. What makes matters worse is knowing that their death was caused by another’s negligence or incompetence. 

Although no amount of money will ever bring them back, filing a wrongful death claim can help cover expenses related to the deceased’s passing.

When considering your options following the death of a family member, it’s important to understand the different roles of a criminal trial and a civil lawsuit.

A criminal trial is usually brought by the state or by a given jurdistiction’s prosecutor. A criminal trial is focused on meting out punishment for alleged criminal conduct. As such, criminal trials can end in jail or fines for the accused, but this doesn’t necessarily help the family of the deceased. 

A civil suit, on the other hand, is dedicated exclusively to civil remedies for the family of the victim. In these cases, the victim’s spouse, parents, or other next-of-kin can seek economic damages related to the passing of their family member. 

If you’ve been impacted by the death of a loved one, there’s no need to go it alone. A wrongful death lawyer in Baton Rouge can help. 

Contact a Baton Rouge Wrongful Death Lawyer

Struggling with the economic burden of your loved one’s loss? At Spencer Calahan Injury Lawyers, we’re driven by a passion to fight for the rights of victims of wrongful death, and we want to help with your case, too. 

Call 225-387-2323 or fill out the form below to schedule a free case review with a Baton Rouge wrongful death lawyer from our firm.