Trial Attorney Blog
When someone dies due to another person’s negligence or misconduct, families are left to cope with overwhelming emotional, financial, and legal consequences.
In these cases, seeking justice isn’t just about closure—it’s about securing your future.
A Wrongful Death Attorney plays a pivotal role in navigating this complex legal process.
But not all attorneys are the same.
The questions you ask during your consultation can make all the difference in selecting someone who will truly fight for your loved one’s legacy.
Why Asking the Right Questions Matters
Choosing a Wrongful Death Lawyer is one of the most important decisions you will make during this difficult time.
You’re not just hiring a legal professional—you’re trusting someone with your family’s emotional and financial future.
The goal is to find an attorney who is:
- Experienced in wrongful death cases
- Responsive and compassionate
- Skilled at negotiating or litigating complex cases
- Transparent about timelines, strategy, and communication
To help you make an informed choice, we’ve compiled the most essential questions to ask, based on insights from top legal resources and real-world expertise.
Questions About Experience and Track Record
How long have you been handling Wrongful Death Claims?
Experience is everything.
You want a Wrongful Death Lawyer who has specifically handled these types of cases for years—not someone who dabbles occasionally.
How many wrongful death lawsuits have you taken to trial?
Some lawyers settle all their cases.
Others aren’t afraid of a courtroom.
Ask if they’ve argued a Wrongful Death Lawsuit before a judge or jury—and what the results were.
What types of wrongful death cases have you handled?
Wrongful death cases vary: car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace incidents, defective products, and more.
Make sure the Atlanta Wrongful Death Attorney you choose has experience with cases similar to yours
Questions About Legal Strategy
What’s your approach to proving negligence in these cases?
A skilled Wrongful Death Lawyer Atlanta will be able to walk you through their process for gathering evidence, identifying liable parties, and building a persuasive case.
What is your plan if the case doesn’t settle?
Settlements are common, but not guaranteed.
Ask whether they’re prepared to take the case to trial—and how they’ll keep you informed throughout.
How do you evaluate the strength of a case?
Not every situation meets the legal criteria for a Wrongful Death Lawsuit.
A trustworthy lawyer will be honest about your chances and outline the legal elements they must prove.
Questions About Communication and Client Support
Will I be working with you directly?
Some firms pass cases off to junior associates.
You want to know who your point of contact will be—and how accessible they are.
How often will I receive updates on the case?
Regular communication is key.
Ask how often they’ll check in with you and what methods they use—phone, email, online portals, etc.
Who will answer my questions during the process?
It’s important to know whether you’ll get timely answers from your Wrongful Death Attorney, or whether your concerns will be routed through a paralegal.
Questions About Resources and Support Staff
Do you have access to expert witnesses?
Strong cases often rely on specialists: accident reconstructionists, forensic experts, economists, and medical professionals.
A respected Atlanta Wrongful Death Attorney will have these connections.
How do you gather evidence and build the case?
Understanding their investigative process gives you insight into their thoroughness and professionalism.
Do they use private investigators, subpoena records, or review surveillance footage?
What technologies or systems does your firm use to manage cases?
Efficient case management tools can reduce errors and speed up resolution.
Ask if they use modern technology for documentation, communication, and trial prep.
Questions About Compensation and Legal Rights
What damages can I legally pursue?
A seasoned Wrongful Death Lawyer will break down the potential compensation, which may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills incurred before death
- Loss of income and financial support
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship and consortium
Can multiple family members be part of the claim?
Each state has different rules about who can file.
Ask how they handle cases involving surviving spouses, children, or extended family.
How long will the case take to resolve?
There’s no exact answer, but experienced lawyers can give you a general timeline based on the facts of your case and the court’s caseload.
Questions About Legal Standing and Time Limits
Am I eligible to file a Wrongful Death Claim?
In Georgia, spouses, children, or the estate representative usually have standing.
Your attorney should confirm your eligibility based on your relationship to the deceased.
What is the statute of limitations in Georgia?
Generally, it’s two years from the date of death, but there are exceptions.
Delays can ruin your case, so this is a vital question for any Wrongful Death Attorney.
How can I preserve evidence early?
A proactive Wrongful Death Lawyer Atlanta will advise you on collecting documentation, speaking to witnesses, and avoiding missteps that could weaken your claim.
Questions About Legal Fees and Payment Structure
Do you work on contingency?
Most reputable Atlanta Wrongful Death Attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case. But always confirm this arrangement.
Are there any upfront costs or hidden fees?
Make sure they explain any out-of-pocket expenses, like filing fees or expert witness costs, and how those are handled if the case is lost.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Asking questions helps you spot potential issues.
Be cautious of attorneys who:
- Avoid answering direct questions
- Guarantee specific results
- Don’t return calls promptly
- Have no trial experience
- Pressure you to sign without reviewing everything
Your attorney should earn your trust through transparency, experience, and compassion—not vague promises.
Why Finch McCranie, LLP Is the #1 Choice for Wrongful Death Cases
At Finch McCranie, LLP, we understand how devastating wrongful death cases can be—and we’re here to handle every legal burden so your family can focus on healing.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Decades of Experience: Our firm has represented families in Georgia for over 50 years.
- We’ve handled some of the state’s most complex and high-profile Wrongful Death Claims.
- Trial-Tested Results: We’re not afraid of the courtroom. If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we fight to win at trial.
- Personal Attention: You work directly with a seasoned Wrongful Death Lawyer, not just office staff or assistants.
- Respected Across Georgia: We’re known by judges, juries, and insurance companies as fierce advocates for justice.
- Comprehensive Resources: From expert witnesses to digital evidence analysis, we leave no stone unturned in building your case.
When you work with Finch McCranie, LLP, you’re choosing more than legal representation.
You’re choosing a trusted partner who will fight for your family’s future with dignity and determination.
Call to Action: Let Us Help You Seek Justice
If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait.
Our team at Finch McCranie, LLP is here to help you ask the right questions, understand your legal options, and take action toward justice and accountability.
Schedule your consultation today with a compassionate and experienced Atlanta Wrongful Death Attorney who will put your family’s needs first.
We’re ready to listen.
We’re ready to act. And we’re ready to win.
FAQs
What qualifies as a wrongful death case?
A wrongful death case arises when a person dies due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. Common causes include car accidents, defective products, medical malpractice, and workplace injuries. A qualified Wrongful Death Lawyer will evaluate whether your loved one’s death legally qualifies and help you build a claim based on the available evidence and applicable Georgia law.
What’s the difference between a personal injury case and a wrongful death lawsuit?
While both involve negligence, a personal injury case is filed by the injured party, while a Wrongful Death Lawsuit is filed by surviving family members or estate representatives after the victim has passed away. A skilled Wrongful Death Attorney can explain the difference in compensation structures and legal strategies for each type of case.
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Georgia?
Georgia law permits the following parties to file a Wrongful Death Claim:
- The surviving spouse
- The deceased’s children (if no spouse)
- The deceased’s parents (if no spouse or children)
- The administrator of the estate (if no immediate family)
Your Atlanta Wrongful Death Attorney can help determine if you have legal standing based on your relationship to the deceased.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Georgia?
In most cases, Georgia law imposes a two-year statute of limitations from the date of death to file a Wrongful Death Lawsuit. However, the timeframe can vary depending on the case (e.g., if criminal investigations are involved). That’s why speaking with a Wrongful Death Lawyer Atlanta as soon as possible is critical for protecting your legal rights.
What types of damages can I recover in a wrongful death case?
Recoverable damages in a Wrongful Death Claim may include:
- Medical expenses before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of the deceased’s income and benefits
- Emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship and guidance
An experienced Wrongful Death Attorney will help calculate full and fair compensation based on your specific loss.
Will I have to go to court for a wrongful death case?
Not necessarily. Many wrongful death cases are resolved through settlement negotiations. However, if a fair offer isn’t made, your Atlanta Wrongful Death Attorney should be fully prepared to take the case to trial. At Finch McCranie, LLP, we build every case as if it’s going to court—because that’s how you get maximum results.
How should I prepare for my consultation with a wrongful death lawyer?
Bring any documentation you have regarding your loved one’s death, including medical records, police reports, witness contact information, and correspondence with insurance companies. Prepare a list of questions—including those mentioned in this article—to ensure you’re choosing the right Wrongful Death Lawyer for your case.
Why should I hire Finch McCranie, LLP for a wrongful death case?
Finch McCranie, LLP is a top-tier firm with decades of experience handling Wrongful Death Lawsuits across Georgia. We’re known for our compassionate representation, trial-readiness, and proven results. Our Atlanta Wrongful Death Attorneys combine legal excellence with a deep understanding of the emotional toll these cases take, making us the trusted choice for families seeking justice.