Losing a loved one because of someone else’s actions is one of the most devastating experiences a family can face. Beyond the emotional pain, you may be left with serious financial consequences, from funeral costs to the sudden loss of income and support.
During this time of grief, you deserve more than just condolences. You deserve justice. A personal injury lawyer in Columbia can help you file a wrongful death claim and hold the at-fault party accountable.
At John Foy & Associates, we’ve recovered over $1 billion for families in our more than 20 years of practice. If your loved one died in a preventable accident, our Columbia wrongful death lawyers are here to fight for your future. We offer free consultations, and we never charge a fee unless we win your case. Let us support you through this painful time.
What is the Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations in South Carolina?
Every state has its own deadline for filing a wrongful death lawsuit. In South Carolina, you typically have three years from the date of your loved one’s death to bring a claim, according to South Carolina Code of Laws § 15-51-10.
There are some exceptions that may shorten or extend this timeline, such as cases involving government entities or delayed discovery of negligence. However, waiting too long can result in your case being dismissed entirely, no matter how strong the facts may be.
That’s why it’s so important to speak with a wrongful death attorney in Columbia, SC as soon as possible. Our team can help you understand how the statute of limitations in South Carolina applies to your case and make sure no deadlines are missed.
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What Does a Wrongful Death Lawyer Do?
You may be wondering whether hiring an attorney is necessary or what role they actually play in a case like this. So, what does a wrongful death lawyer do?
Here’s how we support grieving families through every stage of the legal process:
- Investigate the cause of death: We gather medical records, accident reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
- Identify liable parties: From reckless drivers to negligent businesses, we hold the right people or companies responsible.
- Calculate damages: We account for financial losses, emotional suffering, lost companionship, and more.
- File the legal claim: We handle all court paperwork and legal filings so your case stays on track.
- Negotiate settlements: We push for the maximum compensation from insurers and defendants.
- Go to trial if needed: If the other side refuses a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to fight in court.
As experienced fatal accident lawyers in Columbia, we are here to take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your family.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in South Carolina?
Not everyone is legally allowed to file a wrongful death claim. In South Carolina, the executor or administrator of the deceased person’s estate must file the lawsuit. That person acts on behalf of the surviving family members, including:
- The spouse and children of the deceased
- The parents, if there is no spouse or child
- Legal heirs or dependents, in some cases
Our fatal accident attorneys in Columbia, SC, will help determine who is eligible to bring the claim and make sure all the proper steps are followed.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
A wrongful death claim can arise from nearly any kind of fatal incident caused by negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm. Some of the most common causes we see include:
- Car and truck accidents
- Motorcycle crashes
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace accidents
- Defective products
- Nursing home neglect or abuse
No matter how the accident happened, our team is prepared to investigate and build a strong case for compensation. If your loved one died because of another party’s failure to act responsibly, we are here to help you pursue justice.
What Compensation Can You Recover in a Wrongful Death Case?
In South Carolina, wrongful death damages are meant to ease the financial and emotional burden on surviving family members. Depending on your situation, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills related to the fatal injury
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost income and future earnings the deceased would have provided
- Pain and suffering experienced by the family
- Loss of companionship and support
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm
Our wrongful death law firm in Columbia will fight to ensure every aspect of your loss is accounted for in your claim. We work with economic experts, medical specialists, and other professionals to build a complete picture of the impact this tragedy has had on your life.
Why Choose John Foy & Associates?
At John Foy & Associates, we understand that no amount of money can replace the person you lost. But financial justice can provide the security your family needs and help prevent similar tragedies from happening to others.
Known across the Southeast as The Strong Arm™, we bring over 350 years of combined legal experience to every case we handle. We don’t back down from insurance companies, and we don’t settle for less than what our clients deserve. If you need a powerful, compassionate advocate during this difficult time, we are here for you.
Get Legal Help From Our Columbia Wrongful Death Attorneys Today
If someone you love has died because of another person’s actions, don’t try to handle it alone. Our wrongful death attorneys in Columbia, SC, can help you take the first step toward justice. We offer free consultations, and there is no fee unless we win. Let us explain your rights, answer your questions, and guide you through every step of the process.
With over $1 billion recovered and a proven track record in fatal accident cases, we are ready to fight for your family’s future. Contact us today to speak with a dedicated attorney who will treat your case with the care it deserves.
(404) 400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form