Fort Lauderdale Wrongful Death Lawyers

When life hurts, we make it personal.

The sudden loss of a loved one in an accident is a tragedy that no family is ever prepared to face. In Fort Lauderdale, wrongful deaths occur far too often on busy highways, in unsafe workplaces, or through acts of negligence that could have been prevented. Beyond the grief, families are left with financial burdens, unanswered questions, and the challenge of holding those responsible accountable.

At Ansel & Miller, we know that no legal action can truly compensate for the loss of a loved one. But Florida law does provide a way for families to seek justice and financial support through a wrongful death claim. Our Fort Lauderdale wrongful death lawyers are committed to guiding grieving families through this difficult process, standing by them with compassion, strength, and a relentless pursuit of accountability.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

Under Florida Statutes §768.16–768.26, known as the Florida Wrongful Death Act, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the wrongful act, negligence, default, or breach of contract or warranty of another party. In these cases, the law allows certain family members to recover damages against the party whose actions or inaction caused the death.

In Fort Lauderdale, wrongful death cases commonly arise from car accidents, truck accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, dangerous property conditions, and workplace incidents. Regardless of the circumstances, the law’s goal is twofold: to shift the financial losses from the surviving family members to the responsible party, and to ensure accountability for preventable harm.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Florida?

Florida law requires that a wrongful death claim be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate, who is typically named in the will or appointed by the court. The personal representative brings the claim on behalf of the estate and the eligible surviving family members, which may include:

The spouse of the deceased
Children, including minor children and, in some cases, adult children
Parents of the deceased
Other blood relatives or adoptive siblings who were financially dependent on the deceased

This distinction is important. While family members are the ones who ultimately benefit from a wrongful death case, the legal action itself must be initiated through the estate.

Damages Available Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act

Compensation in wrongful death cases is designed to address both the losses suffered by the surviving family and the losses suffered by the deceased’s estate. Damages may include:

For surviving family members: Loss of support and services, loss of companionship, protection, and guidance, as well as mental pain and suffering. Spouses, children, and parents each have specific rights to recover under the statute.
For the estate: Lost wages and benefits from the date of injury until the date of death, loss of prospective net accumulations (what the deceased would likely have earned and saved), and certain medical and funeral expenses.

Every wrongful death case is unique, but these damages ensure that the financial and emotional toll of the loss is recognized under the law.

The Challenges Families Face in Fort Lauderdale Wrongful Death Cases

Wrongful death cases are complex, and insurance companies often work aggressively to minimize payouts. In Fort Lauderdale, defendants may attempt to dispute liability, claim the victim contributed to their own accident, or argue over the extent of damages. Florida’s comparative negligence law plays a significant role, allowing defendants to reduce or avoid responsibility if they can prove the deceased shared fault.

For grieving families, these legal battles can feel overwhelming. That is why having experienced legal representation is essential. At Ansel & Miller, we build strong cases supported by evidence, expert testimony, and a clear understanding of how the loss has affected your family’s life. We are not intimidated by insurers or corporations. We confront them head-on and demand accountability.

Why Time Matters: The Statute of Limitations

Florida law imposes a strict statute of limitations on wrongful death claims. In most cases, families have two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline can mean losing the right to recover damages. Because wrongful death cases require careful investigation and preparation, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after a loss.

Our Approach at Ansel & Miller

At Ansel & Miller, we treat every wrongful death case as more than just a legal claim; it is a fight for justice on behalf of families who have suffered immeasurable loss. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and build a strategy tailored to your circumstances.

Our boutique approach means your case will never be lost in a stack of files. We devote personal attention to every family we represent, ensuring that you always know where your case stands and what to expect. We prepare every case as if it is headed to trial, because we know that insurers and defendants take claims seriously when they know we are ready to fight in court.

Standing With Families in Fort Lauderdale

Losing a loved one is devastating, and the path forward can feel uncertain. But you do not have to face it alone. With Ansel & Miller at your side, you will have a legal team committed to helping you find accountability, financial security, and the ability to move forward with dignity.

Speak With a Fort Lauderdale Wrongful Death Lawyer

If you have lost a loved one due to another’s negligence in Fort Lauderdale, reach out to Ansel & Miller today. We offer free consultations, where we will answer your questions, explain your options, and help you decide the best way forward.

Call us now to learn how we can fight for justice for your family and hold the responsible parties accountable.