Compassionate Legal Advocacy for Families Facing Tragic Loss
When a loved one dies because of someone else’s carelessness or wrongdoing, the pain is great. The legal issues can be very confusing. At McArthur Law Firm, our wrongful death attorneys in Macon, Georgia, are here to guide you through this difficult time with skill, compassion, and unwavering dedication.
The wrongful death lawyers at McArthur Law Firm help families secure justice and maximize the compensation they deserve under Georgia wrongful death law.
Call 478-238-6600 today to speak with a wrongful death attorney in Macon for a free consultation. You can also use our online contact form to get in touch anytime 24/7.
What Qualifies as Wrongful Death in Georgia?
Under Georgia law, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the “negligent, reckless, intentional, or criminal” acts of another party.
This definition comes from Georgia Code § 51-4-1 through § 51-4-5, which lays the legal foundation for filing a wrongful death claim in the state.
It is crucial to have the legal guidance of an experienced wrongful death law firm to navigate this difficult process if you hope to win a settlement for your family.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Macon, GA
Macon sees a range of fatal accidents and incidents that may give rise to a wrongful death claim, including:
- Car and truck accidents caused by drunk, distracted, or reckless drivers
- Medical malpractice, such as surgical errors or misdiagnosis
- Workplace accidents, especially in construction or industrial settings
- Defective products that fail to meet safety standards
- Nursing home abuse or neglect
- Criminal acts such as assault or manslaughter
If your family member died under circumstances that suggest carelessness or unlawful conduct by another person or entity, a wrongful death lawsuit may be your best legal remedy.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Georgia?
Georgia law strictly defines who may bring a wrongful death action. These rights are established by O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2 and other related statutes.
Primary Parties Eligible to File A Wrongful Death Claim
- Surviving Spouse: The spouse of the deceased is the first in line to file a claim.
- Children of the Deceased: If there is no surviving spouse, the children may file.
- Parents of the Deceased: If there are no spouse or children, the parents may pursue the claim.
- Estate Representative: If no immediate family survives, the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the estate.
In many cases, the spouse may file on behalf of themselves and any minor children. Georgia law guarantees that minor children get at least one-third of any recovery. This rule applies no matter how many children there are.
Two Types of Wrongful Death Claims in Georgia
There are actually two separate legal claims that can be filed in a wrongful death case in Macon:
1. The Full Value of the Life of the Deceased (Brought by Family)
This claim seeks to recover for the full value of the life of the deceased, including:
- Lost wages and benefits the deceased would have earned
- Loss of care, companionship, and guidance
- Loss of enjoyment of life and time with loved ones
This last action is typically brought by the surviving family.
2. Estate Claim (Brought by Executor/Administrator)
This claim focuses on financial losses sustained by the estate and includes:
- Medical bills from before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased prior to death
Both types of claims may be pursued simultaneously to maximize the total recovery.
What Compensation Is Available in a Macon Wrongful Death Claim?
Every wrongful death case is unique, but the law allows for substantial compensation to help surviving family members maintain financial stability and seek justice for their loss.
The different categories of damages available in a wrongful death lawsuit in Macon, GA include:
Economic Damages
- Lost income and future earnings
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills prior to death
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering of the deceased before death
- Loss of consortium, companionship, and guidance
Punitive Damages
In rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar misconduct. Georgia law does not place a cap on wrongful death damages, which means families can pursue the full extent of their loss.
How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Macon?
According to O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Georgia is generally two years from the date of death. However, this timeframe can vary in certain circumstances:
- Criminal Cases: If there is a criminal prosecution related to the death, the clock may pause until the criminal case concludes.
- Medical Malpractice: The statute may be extended under the discovery rule if the cause of death was not immediately known.
- Claims Against Government Entities: These may require formal notice within months of the incident, not years.
Because the legal timeline can be complex, it’s critical to consult a Macon wrongful death attorney promptly to avoid forfeiting your rights.
Why Choose McArthur Law Firm for Your Wrongful Death Case in Macon?
At McArthur Law Firm, we understand that a wrongful death claim is more than a legal case—it’s a deeply personal pursuit of justice. Our attorneys bring decades of experience in personal injury and wrongful death litigation and are known across Georgia for delivering results in high-stakes cases.
What Sets Us Apart
Led by Board-Certified Trial Attorney Kathy McArthur with a proven record of winning wrongful death verdicts.
In-depth investigative resources to uncover every liable party.
Trial-ready approach – We prepare every case as if it’s going to court, putting pressure on insurance companies to offer top-dollar settlements.
Compassionate advocacy – We treat our clients like family and work tirelessly to shoulder the legal burden while you focus on healing.
Local expertise – Our Macon-based firm knows the local courts, judges, and community values.
We’ve been practicing law in Macon for over 45 years and are intimately familiar with the locale. Our office is located at 6055 Lakeside Commons Dr Suite 400, Macon, GA 31210 and we have been fighting for the families of wrongful death victims since the early 1980s.
Whether your loved one died due to a negligent truck driver, a reckless property owner, or a dangerous product, McArthur Law Firm has the resources and resolve to hold the responsible party accountable.
Real Results from Real Georgia Families
Our wrongful death attorneys have helped families across Georgia recover millions in verdicts and settlements. We’ve won wrongful death cases involving:
- Tractor-trailer crashes on I-75 in Bibb County
- Fatal workplace injuries at Macon industrial sites
- Medical malpractice at Central Georgia hospitals
- Defective vehicle parts that led to fatal wrecks
While no amount of money can bring back your loved one, a successful wrongful death claim in Macon can provide closure, protect your family’s financial future, and send a powerful message that negligence will not go unanswered.
Steps to Take After a Loved One’s Wrongful Death
If you believe the loss of a loved one may have been caused by negligence or wrongful conduct, take these steps as soon as possible:
- Obtain the death certificate and autopsy report
- Preserve all evidence, including photos, documents, and witness names
- Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without legal counsel
- Contact an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Macon to evaluate your case
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Macon Wrongful Death Lawyer
Time is of the essence when it comes to protecting your rights after a fatal accident. Let the compassionate and aggressive legal team at McArthur Law Firm fight for justice on your behalf.
- Free, no-obligation case evaluations
- No fees unless we win your case
- 24/7 availability for urgent consultations
- 📍 Located conveniently in Macon, we represent grieving families across Bibb County and throughout Central Georgia.
Call 478-238-6600 today to speak with an experienced attorney about your Macon wrongful death case.
More Information On Wrongful Death Cases in Georgia
If you’d like to learn more about how McArthur Law Firm can help you after the death of a loved one, read some of our informative articles below. We explore all the different aspects of wrongful death cases in Macon and elsewhere in Georgia.
