
Voted Best Personal Injury Law Firm By Georgia Lawyers
Atlanta Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death Lawyer
Client Testimonials
Matt Wetherington with Wetherington Law Firm,P.C. is the hardest working attorney I have ever worked with. He went above and beyond our expectations. Calls and emails are returned promptly and by Mr. Wetherington himself.
– Kelly
5 Stars is nowhere near enough to rate how awesome Matt and his colleagues were. They took my case even when I didn’t think there was anything we could do. I was in a bad situation at the time and Matt, Robert, and Sarah were there for me every step of the way.
– G.B.
I’m so grateful to Ben Levy and everything he did for me. He was truly dedicated to helping my case. Throughout the process, Ben was very thoughtful, responsive, organized, and made sure I was fully informed along the way.
– Shira
Our Locations
Free Injury Lawyer Consultation
Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death Lawyer in Georgia
Losing a loved one due to medical negligence is devastating, leaving families with emotional and financial burdens. When a doctor, hospital, or healthcare provider fails in their duty of care, resulting in a fatal injury or illness, you deserve justice. A Georgia medical malpractice wrongful death lawyer can help you hold negligent parties accountable and secure the compensation your family needs to move forward.
Our wrongful death lawyer understands that no amount of money can replace a loved one. However, pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide financial stability, cover funeral costs, and prevent similar tragedies from happening to others. Our Atlanta medical malpractice wrongful death lawyers have a proven track record of winning complex wrongful death lawsuits against hospitals, physicians, and insurance companies.
Medical malpractice cases are notoriously difficult to prove, requiring extensive legal and medical expertise. We work with top medical experts, leverage cutting-edge case strategies, and aggressively negotiate with insurers to maximize your compensation. With decades of experience, we have successfully represented families in claims involving surgical errors, misdiagnosis, anesthesia mistakes, and hospital negligence.
If you believe a healthcare provider’s negligence led to your loved one’s death, don’t wait. Strict time limits apply to wrongful death lawsuits, and evidence must be preserved early. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let us fight for the justice your family deserves. Call us at (404)-888-4444.
What Is Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death?
Medical malpractice wrongful death occurs when a patient dies due to a healthcare provider’s negligence, misdiagnosis, or improper treatment. Unlike natural causes or unavoidable complications, these deaths could have been prevented with proper medical care. Common examples include surgical mistakes, medication errors, delayed diagnosis, and failure to monitor critical conditions.
For a case to qualify as medical malpractice, the healthcare provider must have breached the accepted standard of care, directly causing the patient’s death. This means their actions or lack of action deviated from what a competent medical professional would have done in the same situation. Establishing this requires detailed medical records, expert testimony, and a thorough legal strategy.
Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members—such as spouses, children, or parents to seek financial compensation for their losses. This can include medical expenses before death, lost future earnings, funeral costs, and emotional suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the negligence was especially reckless or intentional.
Filing a wrongful death lawsuit is not just about financial recovery, it’s about holding negligent medical providers accountable. If you suspect malpractice played a role in your loved one’s passing, speaking with a skilled medical malpractice wrongful death attorney can help determine your legal options. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let us fight for the justice your family deserves. Call us at (404)-888-4444.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim for Medical Malpractice?
Not everyone is legally eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit after losing a loved one to medical negligence. Georgia wrongful death laws determine who has the right to bring a claim, and in most cases, this includes immediate family members and estate representatives.
Eligible Parties Typically Include:
- Spouses – The deceased’s husband or wife is usually the primary claimant.
- Children – Biological and legally adopted children can seek damages for the loss of a parent.
- Parents – If the deceased was unmarried and had no children, parents may have the right to file.
- Estate Representative – In some cases, the executor of the deceased’s estate can bring a claim on behalf of beneficiaries.
Statute of Limitations: Time Limits Apply
Every state has strict deadlines for filing a medical malpractice wrongful death lawsuit, known as the statute of limitations. In many states, families have two years from the date of death to take legal action, but exceptions may apply in cases involving fraudulent concealment or delayed discovery of malpractice. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to compensation, so acting quickly is crucial.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify to file a claim, consulting with an experienced wrongful death attorney can help clarify your legal rights. An attorney will review your case, confirm eligibility, and ensure your claim is filed within the legal timeframe.
4. Proving Medical Malpractice in a Wrongful Death Case
Winning a wrongful death lawsuit requires more than proving a loved one died under medical care—it must be shown that medical negligence directly caused the death. This involves gathering strong evidence and meeting specific legal criteria.
Four Key Elements of a Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death Claim:
- Duty of Care – The healthcare provider had a legal obligation to provide competent medical treatment.
- Breach of Duty – The provider failed to meet the accepted standard of care, making a critical error or omission.
- Causation – The breach directly caused the patient’s death, rather than an underlying illness or unrelated condition.
- Damages – The death resulted in measurable losses, such as medical bills, funeral costs, and emotional suffering.
Types of Evidence Used in These Cases:
- Medical records showing errors in treatment, misdiagnosis, or failure to act.
- Expert testimony from qualified doctors proving negligence occurred.
- Autopsy reports linking the cause of death to medical malpractice.
- Hospital policies and guidelines demonstrating deviations from standard procedures.
Proving malpractice is complex and requires a thorough legal and medical investigation. Hospitals and insurance companies will fight hard to deny liability, but an experienced medical malpractice wrongful death lawyer can build a compelling case, negotiate for a fair settlement, and take your case to trial if necessary. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let us fight for the justice your family deserves. Call us at (404)-888-4444.
Compensation in Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death Cases in Georgia
When a loved one dies due to medical negligence, the financial and emotional toll can be overwhelming. A wrongful death lawsuit seeks to recover damages that help surviving family members cope with their loss and secure their future.
Types of Compensation Available
- Economic Damages – Cover tangible financial losses, including:
- Medical expenses incurred before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost future earnings and benefits
- Loss of household services (e.g., childcare, maintenance)
- Non-Economic Damages – Compensate for emotional and psychological losses, such as:
- Pain and suffering of the deceased before passing
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and support
- Emotional distress suffered by surviving family members
- Punitive Damages – In cases of extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, the court may award additional damages to punish the responsible party and deter similar misconduct in the future. These are less common but can be significant in cases involving reckless behavior by healthcare providers.
How Compensation Is Determined
The value of a wrongful death case depends on several factors, including the deceased’s age, income, family responsibilities, and the severity of the malpractice. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but an experienced wrongful death attorney can fight to ensure you receive full and fair compensation.
6. How a Georgia Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help
Navigating a wrongful death claim alone can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with hospitals and insurance companies that are focused on protecting their interests. A medical malpractice wrongful death lawyer provides the legal expertise needed to build a strong case and maximize compensation.
Key Ways a Lawyer Supports Your Case
- Case Investigation – Collects medical records, consults experts, and gathers evidence to prove malpractice.
- Negotiation with Insurance Companies – Ensures families don’t settle for lowball offers and fights for fair compensation.
- Filing the Lawsuit – Prepares legal documents, meets court deadlines, and complies with the statute of limitations.
- Trial Representation – If a fair settlement isn’t reached, the lawyer presents a compelling case in court to fight for justice.
Why Experience Matters
Medical malpractice cases are highly complex, requiring an attorney with experience handling wrongful death claims against hospitals, doctors, and insurance companies. The right lawyer will have a proven track record of winning high-value settlements and verdicts for grieving families.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to a doctor’s negligence, don’t face this battle alone. A dedicated wrongful death attorney can provide the legal support and advocacy you need to hold those responsible accountable. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let us fight for the justice your family deserves. Call us at (404)-888-4444.
Why Choose Wetherington Law Firm for Your Case?
Choosing the right medical malpractice wrongful death lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At Wetherington Law Firm, we have the experience, resources, and dedication needed to take on hospitals, doctors, and insurance companies to get justice for grieving families.
What Sets Us Apart?
- Proven Track Record – Our firm has successfully recovered millions in wrongful death settlements and verdicts.
- Medical and Legal Expertise – We work with top medical experts to build strong cases backed by undeniable evidence.
- Aggressive Negotiation & Litigation – We don’t settle for low offers; we fight for maximum compensation, even if it means going to trial.
- Compassionate Legal Support – We understand how difficult this time is for families, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
When you work with us, you’re not just hiring a lawyer, you’re partnering with a team that is fully committed to securing justice for your loved one.
Contact a Medical Malpractice Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
If you believe medical negligence caused your loved one’s death, time is of the essence. Hospitals and insurance companies will work quickly to protect themselves, which is why you need an experienced attorney fighting for you.
What You Get with a Free Consultation:
- A thorough review of your case by a wrongful death attorney.
- A clear explanation of your legal options and potential compensation.
- Honest advice on the best steps to take next—no obligations.
Our legal team is available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide the guidance you need. There are no upfront fees—we only get paid if we win your case. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let us fight for the justice your family deserves. Call us at (404)-888-4444.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does a medical malpractice wrongful death lawsuit take?
The timeline for a wrongful death lawsuit varies depending on the complexity of the case, the evidence required, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. On average, these cases take anywhere from several months to a few years. Cases that settle early may resolve faster, while those that proceed to litigation can take longer due to court schedules and expert testimony requirements.
2. What if the hospital denies responsibility for my loved one’s death?
Hospitals and doctors often deny wrongdoing to avoid liability, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have a case. A skilled wrongful death lawyer will gather medical records, consult with expert witnesses, and build a strong case to prove negligence. Even if the hospital initially denies fault, strong evidence and aggressive legal representation can force them to negotiate or face trial.
3. Can I still file a claim if my loved one had a pre-existing condition?
Yes. A pre-existing condition does not excuse medical negligence. If a doctor or hospital’s failure to diagnose, improper treatment, or surgical error worsened the condition and led to death, you may still have a valid wrongful death claim. Medical malpractice cases focus on whether the healthcare provider deviated from the standard of care, not the patient’s prior health status.
4. Will I have to go to court for a medical malpractice wrongful death case?
Not necessarily. Many wrongful death lawsuits settle out of court through negotiations with the hospital or insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement isn’t offered, your lawyer may recommend going to trial to pursue full compensation. Having an experienced attorney increases the chances of settling for a higher amount without the need for a trial.
5. How much does it cost to hire a medical malpractice wrongful death lawyer?
Most wrongful death attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. The lawyer only gets paid if they win your case, typically taking a percentage of the settlement or court award. This ensures that families can seek justice without worrying about legal fees during an already difficult time.
Georgia Auto Accident Laws Summarized
Driving While Intoxicated
OCGA 40-6-253 and OCGA 40-6-391
Speeding
OCGA 40-6-181
Using a Phone While Driving
OCGA 40-6-241
Failing to Yield to Pedestrians
OCGA 40-6-91, OCGA 40-6-92, OCGA 40-6-93, and OCGA 40-6-96
Failing to Obey a Traffic Official
OCGA 40-6-2
Conducting a Police Chase in a Reckless Manner
OCGA 40-6-6
Failing to Change Lanes to Give Space for Parked Emergency Vehicles and Construction Workers
OCGA 40-6-16 and OCGA 40-6-75
Tampering with or Stealing Road Signs
OCGA 40-6-26
Failing to Maintain One Lane
OCGA 40-6-40 and OCGA 40-6-48
Going the Wrong Way on a One-Way Road
OCGA 40-6-47 and OCGA 40-6-240
Driving a Tractor-Trailer or Bus in the Far-Left Lane(s)
OCGA 40-6-52
Failing to Yield to Emergency Vehicles
OCGA 40-6-74
Making an Improper U-Turn
OCGA 40-6-121
Failing to Exercise Due Caution Near Railroad Crossings
OCGA 40-6-140 and OCGA 40-6-142
Driving Too Slow in the Fast Lane
OCGA 40-6-184
Failing to Slow and Exercise Caution in Construction Zones
OCGA 40-6-188
Obstructing an Intersection
OCGA 40-6-205
Failing to Secure all Loads
OCGA 40-6-248.1 and OCGA 40-6-254
Driving Recklessly
OCGA 40-6-390
Causing Serious Injury by Vehicle
OCGA 40-6-394
Running a Red or Yellow Traffic Light
OCGA 40-6-20, OCGA 40-6-21, and OCGA 40-6-23
Traveling Too Close to Other Vehicles
OCGA 40-6-49
Running Stop and Yield Signs
OCGA 40-6-72
Failing to Yield to Other Vehicles
OCGA 40-6-70 and OCGA 40-6-73
Driving on the Shoulder, Gore, or Other Prohibited Areas
OCGA 40-6-50
Fleeing Police Officers
OCGA 40-6-395
Road Rage
OCGA 40-6-397
Tampering with Traffic Signals
OCGA 40-6-25, OCGA 40-6-17, and OCGA 40-6-396
Driving on the Wrong Side of the Road
OCGA 40-6-40 and OCGA 40-6-45
Passing Another Vehicle Improperly
OCGA 40-6-42, OCGA 40-6-43, OCGA 40-6-44, and OCGA 40-6-46
Going the Wrong Way in a Roundabout
OCGA 40-6-47
Turning the Wrong Way at an Intersection
OCGA 40-6-71 and OCGA 40-6-120
Failing to Yield to Funeral Processions
OCGA 40-6-76
Failing to Use Turn Signals
OCGA 40-6-123
Failing to Stop First Before Exiting a Parking Lot
OCGA 40-6-144
Drag Racing
OCGA 40-6-186
Parking a Vehicle in an Unsafe Place
OCGA 40-6-202
Driving a Vehicle with an Obstructed View
OCGA 40-6-242
Laying Drags or Intentionally Making Skid Marks
OCGA 40-6-251
Intentionally Striking and Killing a Person with a Vehicle
OCGA 40-6-393
Failing to Follow Pedestrian Traffic Signals
OCGA 40-6-22
Failing to Drive Motorcycles Safely
OCGA 40-6-310 and OCGA 40-6-311
Awards
and Recognitions