Trusted Lawyers Handling Wrongful Death Claims In The Cincinnati Metro
Last updated on April 17, 2025
Right now, your world is turned upside down. Tragically, losing a loved one is shocking, and trying to plan and pay for a funeral you were not ready for is absolutely overwhelming. This is especially true when the loss was a result of someone else’s negligence. While nothing can take away the grief you are experiencing, financial support may be available. A wrongful death lawyer can help you understand your legal options and guide you through this difficult time.
Merk & Gile, Injury Attorneys, offers you a genuine shoulder to lean on. Our wrongful death attorneys deliver thoughtful and compassionate legal guidance and can help you navigate the unexpected processes and financial burdens following the loss of a loved one. We work with personal representatives and executors, beneficiaries, and other family members in these fatal accident cases.
Wrongful death lawsuits are often handled in tandem with the estate administration or probate process, and we understand how these very different processes may interact. If your loved one has passed away and you believe you have a wrongful death claim, we can help. Our team of seasoned wrongful death attorneys handles fatal accident claims in the Cincinnati metropolitan area and throughout Kentucky and Ohio.
What Does Wrongful Death Mean?
Section 2125.01 of the Ohio Revised Code defines wrongful death quite simply as a death “caused by wrongful act, neglect, or default.” Kentucky law similarly defines wrongful death as a death that “results from an injury inflicted by the negligence or wrongful act of another” (Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 411.130).
Essentially, if someone behaves carelessly, recklessly or negligently, and that behavior causes the death of another person, that is likely a wrongful death.
Some examples may include deaths resulting from:
- Car and other motor vehicle accidents
- Dog and other animal attacks
- Falling accidents, including slip-and-fall accidents
- Complications following brain injuries, back injuries or other serious injuries
We know that, right now, you are hurting and worried. Our wrongful death lawyers work to help resolve the legal, logistical and financial issues so that you can focus on your grief and recovery. We help ensure your wrongful death settlement covers funerary costs, medical expenses and other needs.
What Are Some Common Causes Of Wrongful Death?
Tragically, car accidents are a leading cause of wrongful death in the United States. Statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveal that over 42,000 people lost their lives in car crashes in 2021.
When caused by a negligent driver (speeding, distracted or under the influence), these deaths may be considered wrongful. However, not all wrongful deaths involve roadway travel.
They can also occur in unsafe conditions while navigating public or private property outside a motorized vehicle. Examples include:
- Unsecured rugs or carpets
- Icy, wet or snowy paths and sidewalks
- Dimly lit or damaged staircases
- Open and unguarded windows
- Dangerous playground equipment
- Cluttered floors and stairways
- Uneven, missing or broken pavement
These hazards can cause you to lose balance, trip or slip – ultimately leading to a fall. Contrary to common belief, even seemingly minor falls can have fatal consequences. If you believe someone else’s negligence led to your loved one’s untimely passing, it is crucial to seek legal advice promptly. A seasoned wrongful death attorney can help you determine if you have grounds for a claim and guide you through the legal process.
Who Can File A Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
In Ohio, only the official personal representative of the deceased’s estate has the authority to initiate a wrongful death action. Often named in a will as the estate executor, the personal representative manages the decedent’s assets and affairs after death. If there is no will, an Ohio probate court often appoints a close relative or friend of the deceased as the estate’s personal representative.
Since their primary responsibility involves settling the estate’s financial matters, they have the sole authority to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If the suit is successful, the compensation will go either to the surviving spouse, children and parents of the deceased first, depending upon the circumstances, then to other family members or beneficiaries of the estate.
Surviving family members can greatly benefit from legal guidance. Your wrongful death lawyer will safeguard your rights by pursuing the maximum compensation possible and keeping everything on track, allowing you to grieve in peace.
Schedule A Free Consultation About A Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Our wrongful death lawyers are trusted and efficient. We work to help you get real support. We work on your behalf to achieve maximum compensation while also offering the emotional support you need. Schedule your appointment at your convenience by calling 513-838-2511 or 859-908-1550.