Wrongful Death vs. Murder

    ORLANDO, FL, February 02, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The charge of murder is a criminal charge brought by the state against someone who has taken another person's life. Wrongful death is a civil charge brought by surviving family members against a person who has taken a loved one's life. This is the primary legal difference between murder and wrongful death.

When most people think of murder, they think of a willful act that resulted in death. By contrast, wrongful death is often a result of a negligent act such as an automobile accident, medical malpractice, or a defective product. Murder charges are brought against an individual, whereas wrongful death can be brought against a company due to the various factors that can result in an accidental taking of life.

Types of Murder

There are three types of murder charges:
- First degree murder or murder with intent
- Second degree murder or a "crime of passion"
- Third degree murder or "manslaughter"

Third degree murder is a criminal charge brought against someone who has taken a life. These are the cases that most often result in a civil wrongful death lawsuit as well. However, wrongful death can be brought against a party even in first and second degree murder cases and, as was shown with such high profile cases as OJ Simpson, the results of a wrongful death lawsuit may be different than those of a criminal trial.

Hire an Attorney

When you lose a loved one due to the intentional or unintentional behavior of another party, you have a right to seek justice and compensation with a wrongful death lawsuit. These lawsuits are intended to provide necessary compensation to surviving family members who are now forced to struggle without spousal or parental support.

In a wrongful death lawsuit, you may be able to seek damages including:
- End of life expenses
- Projected future wages
- Projected future financial contributions such as tuition
- Emotional turmoil caused by the loss of a loved one

Only an experienced wrongful death attorney can build your case and fight to ensure you receive full compensation. Only a wrongful death attorney can fully assess the impact your loss will have on every aspect of your life and seek to get your family the justice you are due.

If you have lost a loved one due to someone else's behavior in or around Orlando or Melbourne, Florida, please visit the website of the wrongful death attorneys at Colling, Gilbert, Wright & Carter to see how we can help your family recover during this difficult process at www.thefloridafirm.com.

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