wrongful death jackson ms

Jackson Wrongful Death Lawyers

Compassionate, skilled representation when you lose a loved one in Mississippi

Losing someone you love is one of the hardest things a person can experience. However, when someone else’s carelessness or negligence causes that loss, it becomes even more painful. Families are often left grieving, angry, and unsure about what to do next. At Merkel & Cocke, P.A., our Jackson wrongful death lawyers are here to help Mississippi families facing unimaginable loss. We offer strong legal guidance, compassionate support, and the resources you need to pursue justice for your loved one.

How can we help?

What is a wrongful death in Mississippi?

A wrongful death occurs when someone dies as a result of another party’s negligent, reckless, or intentional actions. This can happen in a variety of ways, like through car accidents, medical mistakes, dangerous products, workplace incidents, or even criminal acts. The idea behind a wrongful death claim is that if the person had survived, they would have had the right to file a personal injury lawsuit. Since they can’t, the law allows their surviving family members to step in and pursue a claim on their behalf.

Per Mississippi law, wrongful death claims can be brought by the following parties:

  • The spouse of the deceased
  • The children of the deceased
  • The parents of the deceased (if there is no spouse or child)
  • The siblings of the deceased, in limited cases
  • The personal representative of the estate

These individuals may seek compensation for both their personal losses and the losses to the deceased’s estate.

What are common causes of wrongful death in Jackson?

Jackson is the capital and largest city in Mississippi. It’s also a busy place with heavy traffic, large hospitals, and many industries. Unfortunately, this also means there are a variety of ways wrongful deaths can happen. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Jackson sees thousands of car accidents every year, some fatal. Wrongful deaths may happen when a driver is speeding, under the influence, distracted, or violates traffic laws. Truck accidents on highways like I-55 and I-20 can be especially severe due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles.
  • When doctors, nurses, or hospitals fail to provide proper care, patients can suffer fatal consequences. Surgical errors, misdiagnoses, medication mistakes, or poor follow-up care can all lead to wrongful death claims. Hospitals like the University of Mississippi Medical Center are trusted with lives, and when that trust is broken, it’s essential to hold the right parties accountable.
  • From construction sites to manufacturing plants, many jobs in and around Jackson involve dangerous conditions. If a loved one dies in a preventable workplace accident, you may have both a workers’ compensation death benefit claim and a third-party wrongful death lawsuit (depending on the circumstances).
  • Companies have a duty to make safe products. When cars, appliances, medical devices, or drugs are faulty and cause someone to die, the manufacturer can be held liable.

What is the value of my Jackson wrongful death case?

The goal of a wrongful death lawsuit is to provide financial compensation for the losses suffered by the surviving family members and the estate. We understand that no amount of money can bring your loved one back, but it can help ease the financial burdens caused by their loss and hold the wrongdoer accountable. With a successful wrongful death claim, you may be entitled to:

  • Medical expenses related to the deceased person’s final care
  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Loss of income and benefits the deceased would have provided
  • Loss of companionship and support
  • Pain and suffering of the deceased before death
  • Emotional distress of surviving family members
  • Punitive damages, in cases of extreme recklessness or intentional harm

Every case is different, and our attorneys at Merkel & Cocke, P.A. work closely with financial experts, economists, and investigators to calculate the full value of your claim.

Why choose Merkel & Cocke, P.A. for my Jackson wrongful death claim?

Merkel & Cocke, P.A. has been standing up for injured Mississippians and their families for over 40 years. We are one of the most respected personal injury law firms in the state, with a strong record of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements. When you hire our Jackson wrongful death lawyers, you get the following:

  • We’ve handled complex wrongful death cases across the state, from car crashes to hospital negligence.
  • We know what you’re going through, and we handle your case with the compassion and care it deserves.
  • Our firm has access to investigators, expert witnesses, and courtroom technology to build a strong case on your behalf.
  • We always fight for maximum compensation and never settle for less than you deserve.

We also understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with legal matters while you’re grieving the loss of a loved one. That’s why we handle all the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on your family and healing.

How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Jackson?

Under Mississippi law, the majority of wrongful death lawsuits must be filed within three years of the date of death. However, in the case of medical malpractice or a death caused by a public entity, the deadline could be shorter.

Remember, these deadlines (called the statute of limitations) are strict. If you miss it, you lose your right to file a claim forever. That’s why it’s important to speak to a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible, even if you’re not sure you want to file a lawsuit yet.

What can I expect during the legal process?

At Merkel & Cocke, P.A., we understand that the legal process can feel intimidating. That’s why we walk you through each step and make sure you understand your rights and options. Here’s what typically happens during the wrongful death legal process:

  • First, we investigate. We gather evidence, talk to witnesses, review medical records or accident reports, and determine exactly what happened and who is responsible.
  • We prepare and file a legal complaint (your lawsuit) in the appropriate court.
  • Next is discovery, where both sides exchange evidence and information.
  • We negotiate with the defendant or their insurance company. We may be able to reach a fair settlement before trial.
  • If we’re unable to reach a fair settlement, we present your case before a judge or jury and fight for the compensation you deserve for your losses.

Most wrongful death claims settle out of court, but we’re always prepared to take your case to trial if that’s what it takes to get compensation and justice.

Do you have a Jackson wrongful death lawyer near me?

Yes. Our Jackson office is located at 2630 Ridgewood Road, Suite D, Jackson, MS 39216. Our attorneys consult with clients by phone and through online conversation platforms like Zoom and FaceTime. If you are unable to come to our office, we can arrange to see you at your home or a healthcare facility.

You’re not alone. Call our Jackson wrongful death attorneys today

When you lose a loved one in Jackson due to someone else’s carelessness, you shouldn’t have to face the aftermath alone. Let the wrongful death lawyers at Merkel & Cocke, P.A. be your legal voice. We’re here to answer your questions, explain your rights, and help you take the next steps with confidence. We offer free consultations, and you don’t pay us unless we win your case. Please call us today or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.