Federal Way Wrongful Death Lawyer
Losing a loved one is one of the most devastating experiences anyone can face. When that loss occurs because of someone else’s negligence or a wrongful act, the pain is often magnified by confusion, anger, and the heavy weight of financial uncertainty. Families in Federal Way experiencing such tragedy may feel overwhelmed as they struggle with grief while also facing mounting expenses, lost income, and the need for answers.
At Brumley Law Firm, we understand that no legal action can replace your loved one’s presence. What we can do is stand with you during this difficult time and provide the guidance needed to pursue justice and financial support. Our Federal Way personal injury attorneys approach every case with compassion, respect, and determination, working to help families secure the fair compensation they deserve under Washington law.
Why Hire Brumley Law Firm For Your Wrongful Death Case in Federal Way?
Choosing the right Federal Way wrongful death lawyer is an important step in protecting your family’s future. Brumley Law Firm offers:
- Extensive Experience in Personal Injury Law
Our legal team has handled hundreds of personal injury cases, including wrongful death claims, auto accidents, and medical malpractice matters. - Unique Insight Into Insurance Company Strategies
Founding attorney Joshua Brumley previously worked for insurance companies. This background gives our law firm a clear advantage in anticipating tactics insurers may use to minimize payouts and in developing strategies to secure fair settlements for our clients. - Experience You Can Rely On
Our firm is dedicated to helping clients pursue the financial recovery they need to move forward. - Compassionate Representation
We recognize that every wrongful death case involves both legal and emotional challenges. Our attorneys provide empathetic support while navigating the legal system on your behalf. - No Upfront Fees
We handle wrongful death lawsuits on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay no legal fees unless we recover damages for your family.
Client Testimonials
“After my father’s fatal accident, I didn’t know where to turn. Brumley Law Firm walked with me step of the way, handling the legal process while treating my family with care and respect. They fought hard and helped us reach a fair agreement with the insurance company.” – Former Client
“The team at Brumley Law Firm truly cares. They were professional, compassionate, and thorough in gathering evidence and explaining the legal process. I cannot thank them enough for the support they gave us during such a painful time.” – Former Client
How a Federal Way Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help You With a Case
A knowledgeable wrongful death lawyer plays a crucial role in easing the burden on grieving families. At Brumley Law Firm, our experienced attorneys help by:
- Handling All Communications
We take over negotiations with insurance companies, liable parties, and defense attorneys, allowing you to focus on healing. - Conducting a Thorough Investigation
Our legal team gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and consults expert professionals to build a strong wrongful death case. Evidence such as accident reports, medical records, and expert testimony is often used to prove negligence. - Calculating Wrongful Death Damages
We evaluate both economic and non-economic losses, including lost wages, medical expenses, burial expenses, emotional distress, and loss of companionship. - Litigation and Trial Representation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take the wrongful death action to court and advocate vigorously on your behalf.
Common Types of Wrongful Death Cases in Federal Way
Federal Way sees a variety of wrongful death cases, many of which stem from everyday activities and workplaces. Our wrongful death attorneys understand how to investigate and litigate claims involving:
- Car accidents, truck accidents, and motorcycle accidents caused by another driver’s negligence
- Fatal accidents involving pedestrians or bicyclists
- Workplace incidents due to unsafe conditions
- Medical malpractice, including misdiagnosis or surgical errors
- Premises liability accidents such as unsafe property conditions
- Defective products or equipment failures
- Intentional acts that lead to a loved one’s death
Compensation You Can Obtain in a Wrongful Death Case
Under Washington law, eligible family members may be entitled to recover damages through a wrongful death lawsuit. Compensation may include specific losses sustained by close family members, such as financial support, companionship, guidance, and marital consortium.
- Economic Damages: Lost wages and benefits, medical bills, burial expenses, and property damage
- Non-Economic Damages: Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support
- Other Potential Damages: In cases involving egregious conduct, courts may award additional damages to provide accountability
Surviving family members may also recover damages for final medical and funeral costs, lost income, household contributions, and emotional suffering.
Understanding all available wrongful death damages is essential to achieving full and fair compensation. Our legal services ensure that no aspect of your family’s loss is overlooked.
What is the Process for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim?
Filing a wrongful death claim can feel overwhelming. Brumley Law Firm helps guide families through each stage of the legal process:
- Seek Medical Attention – If your loved one initially survived the incident, ensure all medical care and medical records are preserved.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney – Meet with an experienced attorney to assess your legal rights and eligibility.
- Investigation and Gathering Evidence – Our legal team conducts a thorough investigation, collects records, and consults experts.
- File the Wrongful Death Action – We prepare and submit all necessary filings under Washington law.
- Negotiations with Insurance Company – We pursue fair compensation through negotiations, aiming for a fair settlement.
- Litigation and Trial – If necessary, we proceed to trial to pursue the wrongful death lawsuit and advocate for maximum recovery.
- Recovery of Damages – Once resolved, eligible family members receive compensation for both economic and emotional losses.
Statute of Limitations in a Federal Way Wrongful Death Claim
Washington State law imposes a three-year statute of limitations on most wrongful death claims. This means you generally have three years from the date of your family member’s death to file a lawsuit. Washington law gives most families this three-year period to initiate a wrongful death lawsuit, ensuring they have time to seek justice. Exceptions may apply in certain cases, such as medical malpractice.
Acting promptly is critical to preserving your right to seek justice. Our Federal Way wrongful death lawyers ensure all deadlines are met while handling the legal process efficiently.
Elements of Negligence in a Wrongful Death Claim
To succeed in a wrongful death lawsuit, four key elements must be proven:
- Duty of Care – The responsible party owed a duty of care to your loved one.
- Breach of Duty – That duty was breached through negligence, recklessness, or an intentional act.
- Causation – The party’s negligence directly caused your family member’s death.
- Damages – Surviving family members suffered measurable financial or emotional harm.
Negligence is a critical factor in establishing liability, and proving it requires a thorough evaluation of the circumstances surrounding the death.
- Duty of Care – The responsible party owed a duty of care to your loved one.
- Breach of Duty – That duty was breached through negligence, recklessness, or an intentional act.
- Causation – The party’s negligence directly caused your family member’s death.
- Damages – Surviving family members suffered measurable financial or emotional harm.
Our legal team carefully evaluates each element and builds a strong case to help families recover damages.
Washington State’s Comparative Fault Laws
Washington follows a comparative fault rule, which means compensation may be reduced if the deceased is found partially at fault for the fatal accident. For example, if the deceased was found 20% responsible in a car accident, the wrongful death settlement may be reduced by 20%.
Our experienced attorneys work to minimize claims of comparative fault and protect your family’s right to full and fair compensation.
Contact a Federal Way Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
At Brumley Law Firm, we know that losing a loved one due to another’s negligence changes lives forever. While no amount of financial compensation can undo such a loss, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help ease financial strain and provide a sense of accountability.
Our dedicated legal team is ready to listen, guide you through the legal system, and pursue fair compensation for your family. We offer every client a free consultation and handle cases on a contingency fee basis.
If you have lost a loved one in Federal Way or the greater Seattle area, reach out to Brumley Law Firm today. Let us provide the support and legal representation you need during this difficult time.