Wrongful Death Attorney

Seek Justice with Chuck Bendig: Wrongful Death Attorney in Columbus, OH

I understand that there are no words to fully express the pain you’re going through right now. Losing a loved one is devastating under any circumstances, but when that loss is due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, the weight of grief can feel unbearable. You deserve justice, and I’m here to help you pursue it.

As a seasoned wrongful death attorney in Columbus, OH, I’ve dedicated my career to standing up for families like yours. My commitment goes beyond just winning cases—I strive to provide the compassion, understanding, and relentless advocacy you need during this difficult time. When you work with me, you’re not just another case; you’re a family that deserves justice, and I will treat your case with the respect and urgency it deserves.

A man holding a small child on his shoulders

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims: What You Need to Know

A wrongful death claim is a legal pathway to hold those responsible for your loved one’s death accountable. This claim can provide compensation for:

– Medical Expenses: Any medical costs related to your loved one’s injury or illness before their passing.
– Funeral and Burial Costs: The often-overlooked but significant expenses associated with laying your loved one to rest.
– Loss of Income: Compensation for the financial support your loved one would have provided.
– Loss of Companionship: Acknowledgment of the emotional void left in your life.

Wrongful Death FAQs

How do Wrongful Death cases work?

When filing a wrongful death lawsuit, the plaintiff must prove the death was caused by the responsible party. The details often including autopsies as part of the discovery process. If an autopsy can benefit your case, and one was not legally required, we will arrange for a private autopsy on your behalf.

The responsible party’s insurance company rarely explains all of your legal rights because it wants to pay you as little as possible. The insurance company may attempt to minimize your relationship with your deceased family member, or they’ll even claim that you rarely saw or lived far away from each other. The allegation; the loss has little financial impact and does not necessitate compensation.

★★★★★

“If you want an attorney that will get the job done, Mr. Bendig is your man. He answers calls, will listen and takes the time to understand. He is honest and upfront. I could not have found a better attorney to handle our case. If I could give him 10 stars I would.”

– Linda Gordin (Google Review)

Charles Bendig

My Approach: Compassionate Guidance and Relentless Pursuit of Justice

When you’re looking for a wrongful death attorney, you need more than just legal expertise—you need someone who truly cares about your well-being. I take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and develop a legal strategy that seeks the justice and compensation your family deserves.

I know the legal process can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with so much. That’s why I’m here to guide you every step of the way. From gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, my goal is to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on healing.

Ready to Take the First Step? Let’s Talk.

Filing a wrongful death suit is a significant decision, and I’m here to help you make it with confidence. When you choose me as your wrongful death attorney, you’re choosing a lawyer who will fight tirelessly for your family’s rights and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

If you’re ready to discuss your case or simply need more information, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I offer a free, no-obligation consultation where we can talk about your situation, answer your questions, and explore your options.

Justice is within reach, and I’m here to help you pursue it. Contact us today to take the first step toward holding those responsible for your loss accountable. Let’s work together to bring your family the justice you deserve.

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Wrongful Death FAQs
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What is considered a wrongful death in Ohio?
A wrongful death occurs when someone loses their life because of another person’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions. Under Ohio law, the estate of the deceased can bring a claim to seek justice and compensation on behalf of surviving family members.
Can wrongful death claims arise from medical errors or car accidents?
Yes. Many of these cases involve car crashes, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, or dangerous products.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Ohio?
Only the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate can file the claim. That person acts on behalf of the surviving spouse, children, parents, or other next of kin.
Can a parent or sibling file a wrongful death lawsuit directly?
Only if they are officially appointed as the personal representative.
Who receives compensation in a wrongful death case?
Compensation typically goes to the surviving spouse, children, and parents. Other relatives may also recover damages if they can show they experienced a real loss, whether emotional, financial, or both.
Can adult children or estranged parents recover damages?
Yes, but they need to demonstrate how the loss impacted them directly.
What damages can be recovered?

Damages can include loss of income, companionship, services, and emotional suffering, as well as funeral and burial expenses. Ohio law outlines these in detail under ORC § 2125.02.

Can punitive damages be awarded?
In extreme cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm, yes—but they’re rare.

Is there a cap on damages?
There’s no cap on economic damages, but some non-economic damages (like emotional suffering) may be limited in certain types of cases, such as medical malpractice.

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

In Ohio, you have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing that deadline can prevent you from recovering any damages.

Can the deadline be extended?
Only in rare cases, for example, if new evidence emerges or the death was caused by something that took time to uncover, like medical malpractice.

What if I don’t know when to start the process?
That’s where I come in. I can help you understand the timeline and ensure no critical deadlines are missed.

How is fault determined?

Ohio uses a comparative fault system. If the deceased person was more than 50% responsible for the incident, the family may not recover damages. But if they were less than 50% at fault, damages are reduced proportionally.

Can more than one person be held responsible?
Yes. Liability can be split among multiple individuals or businesses based on their role in what happened.

Does insurance come into play?
Absolutely. Insurance coverage often plays a big role in how and how much compensation is paid.

What’s the process for filing a wrongful death claim?

We start by opening an estate and having a personal representative appointed. From there, I file a civil lawsuit in court and begin the process of gathering evidence, negotiating, or moving toward trial.

Do these cases always go to trial?
No, many are settled outside of court. My job is to pursue the path that serves your best interests—whether that’s settlement or litigation.

Which courts are involved?
The probate court handles estate matters, while the civil court oversees the wrongful death lawsuit itself.

What’s the difference between a wrongful death claim and a survival action?

A wrongful death claim focuses on the family’s losses. A survival action is a separate claim that seeks compensation for the pain, suffering, and expenses the person experienced before passing. That money goes to the estate.

Can both be filed together?
Yes, and they often are. I can help make sure each claim is handled properly.

Who benefits from each?
Survival action proceeds go to the estate; wrongful death proceeds go to surviving family members.

How long does a wrongful death case take?
It depends on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. Some cases settle in a few months, while others may take a year or more.
Do I really need a lawyer for this?
Yes. These cases are legally and emotionally complex. As your attorney, I make sure everything is done properly, starting with the appointment of the estate representative, through evidence collection, negotiation, and (if needed) trial.

Still Have Questions? We're here to help.

Charles Bendig can help you get the peace of mind you’re looking for.

Give us a call.