Orlando Wrongful Death Lawyer
We understand that no words can ease the pain of losing someone you love. When that loss is caused by another's negligence, the grief can feel even more unbearable. At Cardinal Law, our Orlando wrongful death lawyers are here to carry the legal burden so you can focus on what matters most - your family and healing.
Our compassionate attorneys have helped countless Orange County families seek justice and secure the financial stability they need during the most difficult time of their lives. We treat every family we represent with the dignity, respect, and care they deserve.
Free Consultation - No Fees Unless We Win - Compassionate Support Available 24/7
Orlando Office
200 E Robinson Street, Suite 1120
Orlando, FL 32801
Phone: (407) 501-5541
2 Years
Statute of Limitations for Filing
$0
Upfront Costs to You
24/7
Compassionate Support Available
We Understand Your Loss
Losing a loved one is one of life's most painful experiences. When that loss is caused by someone else's carelessness, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing, the pain can feel insurmountable. You may be feeling anger, confusion, and overwhelming grief all at once.
At Cardinal Law, our Orlando wrongful death lawyers have dedicated their careers to helping families like yours navigate this incredibly difficult journey. We know that no amount of money can bring back your loved one or erase the pain of their absence. However, a wrongful death claim can provide your family with financial security, hold the responsible parties accountable, and honor your loved one's memory by ensuring their death was not in vain.
Our compassionate legal team handles every aspect of your case with the sensitivity and respect it deserves. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your unique circumstances, and develop a legal strategy that addresses your family's specific needs. While we aggressively pursue maximum compensation on your behalf, we never lose sight of the human element - you are not just a case number to us, but a family deserving of justice and support.
As experienced wrongful death attorneys in Orlando, we have helped countless families throughout Orange County recover significant compensation for their losses. Our track record of success is built on a foundation of thorough preparation, skilled negotiation, and fearless trial advocacy. When insurance companies and negligent parties refuse to offer fair compensation, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for the justice your family deserves.
Florida Wrongful Death Statute (768.16-768.26)
Understanding Florida's wrongful death laws is essential to protecting your family's rights. Here is what you need to know about the legal framework that governs these cases.
What is a Wrongful Death?
Under Florida Statute 768.19, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies as a result of the wrongful act, negligence, default, or breach of contract or warranty of any person or entity. This means that if your loved one would have had a valid personal injury claim had they survived, you may have a wrongful death claim.
The law is designed to provide financial compensation to surviving family members who have suffered both economic and emotional losses due to their loved one's untimely death. It also serves as a deterrent to prevent future negligent conduct by holding wrongdoers accountable for the consequences of their actions.
Statute of Limitations
You have only 2 years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Florida. This deadline is strictly enforced, and failing to file within this time frame typically means losing your right to pursue compensation forever.
However, there are important exceptions to be aware of:
- Medical malpractice cases may have special notice requirements
- Claims against government entities have shorter notice periods
- The discovery rule may extend deadlines in some cases
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Orlando?
Under Florida's Wrongful Death Act, only the personal representative of the deceased's estate can file the lawsuit. However, the claim is brought on behalf of specific family members who are legally recognized as survivors.
Surviving Spouse
The surviving husband or wife may recover damages for loss of companionship, protection, and support, as well as mental pain and suffering.
Minor Children
Children under 25 (or any age with a disability) may recover for lost parental companionship, guidance, instruction, and mental pain and suffering.
Adult Children
If there is no surviving spouse, adult children may recover for lost parental companionship and mental pain and suffering.
Parents
If the deceased was a minor or had no spouse or children, parents may recover for mental pain and suffering and lost companionship.
Other Dependents
Blood relatives and adoptive siblings who were partly or wholly dependent on the deceased for support or services may also be eligible.
The Role of the Personal Representative
The personal representative is typically named in the deceased's will. If there is no will, the court will appoint a personal representative, often a surviving spouse or adult child. This individual has the legal authority to file the wrongful death lawsuit and make decisions regarding the case. Our Orlando wrongful death attorneys can assist with the appointment of a personal representative if one has not yet been established.
Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle in Orlando
Our experienced Orlando wrongful death attorneys handle a wide range of cases involving fatal injuries caused by negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct.
Car Accident Fatalities
Fatal crashes on I-4, I-Drive, and Orlando highways caused by negligent, reckless, or drunk driving
Medical Malpractice Deaths
Surgical errors, misdiagnosis, medication mistakes, and hospital negligence at Orlando medical facilities
Workplace Fatalities
Construction site deaths, industrial accidents, and OSHA violations throughout Orange County
Criminal Acts
Negligent security leading to assault, wrongful shootings, and other violent crimes
Pedestrian & Bicycle Deaths
Fatal accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists on Orlando streets
Nursing Home Negligence
Deaths resulting from abuse, neglect, or inadequate care in nursing facilities
Product Liability Deaths
Fatalities caused by defective or dangerous consumer products
Truck Accident Fatalities
Deaths caused by commercial vehicle accidents on I-4 and highways
Motorcycle Fatalities
Fatal motorcycle crashes caused by negligent drivers
Drowning Deaths
Pool accidents, water park incidents, and negligent supervision deaths
Damages Available in Orlando Wrongful Death Cases
Florida law allows survivors to recover various types of compensation to address both the economic and emotional impact of their loss.
Estate Damages
- Medical Expenses: All medical bills incurred from the time of injury until death
- Funeral and Burial Costs: Reasonable expenses for funeral, burial, or cremation services
- Lost Earnings: Income the deceased would have earned from death through trial
- Lost Net Accumulations: Savings and assets the deceased would have accumulated
Survivor Damages
- Lost Support and Services: Financial support and household services the deceased provided
- Loss of Companionship: Loss of love, affection, comfort, and emotional support
- Pain and Suffering of Survivors: Mental anguish, grief, and emotional distress experienced
- Loss of Parental Guidance: For minor children who lost a parent (instruction, guidance, and protection)
No Fees Unless We Win Your Orlando Wrongful Death Case
Cardinal Law handles all wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront and no legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your family. We advance all case costs so there is never any financial burden on you.
Call (407) 501-5541 for Compassionate SupportThe Orlando Wrongful Death Claim Process
Understanding what to expect can help ease some of the uncertainty during this difficult time.
Free Compassionate Consultation
We begin with a free, no-obligation consultation where we listen to your story with compassion and understanding. We explain your legal rights, answer your questions, and help you understand the potential value of your case. This conversation is completely confidential.
Thorough Investigation
Our team conducts a comprehensive investigation to establish negligence and build the strongest possible case. This includes gathering accident reports, medical records, witness statements, expert opinions, and any other evidence necessary to prove liability and damages.
Personal Representative Appointment
If a personal representative has not been appointed, we assist your family with the probate process to establish the estate and appoint a representative who can file the wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of all eligible survivors.
Filing the Lawsuit
We file the wrongful death complaint in Orange County Circuit Court, clearly outlining the negligent conduct that caused your loved one's death and the damages suffered by the estate and each eligible survivor.
Discovery and Negotiations
During the discovery phase, both sides exchange evidence and take depositions. Throughout this process, we aggressively negotiate with insurance companies and defense attorneys to secure maximum compensation for your family.
Settlement or Trial
Many wrongful death cases settle through negotiation, allowing families to receive compensation without the stress of trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, our experienced trial attorneys are fully prepared to present your case to an Orange County jury and fight for the justice your family deserves.
Why You Need an Orlando Wrongful Death Attorney
Wrongful death cases are among the most complex areas of personal injury law. Insurance companies and corporate defendants employ teams of lawyers whose sole purpose is to minimize payouts and protect their interests. Without experienced legal representation, grieving families often find themselves overwhelmed and undercompensated.
An experienced Orlando wrongful death lawyer levels the playing field. We understand the legal strategies used by defense teams and know how to counter them effectively. We have the resources to hire expert witnesses, conduct thorough investigations, and build compelling cases that demonstrate the full extent of your family's losses.
- Navigate complex legal procedures - We handle all paperwork, deadlines, and court requirements
- Calculate full damages - We ensure no compensation category is overlooked
- Deal with insurance companies - We handle all negotiations so you can focus on healing
- Protect your rights - We ensure deadlines are met and evidence is preserved
Compassion Meets Experience
At Cardinal Law, we combine aggressive legal advocacy with genuine compassion for the families we serve. We understand that behind every wrongful death case is a family in pain. We never lose sight of the human element as we fight for the compensation and justice your loved one deserves.
"After losing my husband in an Orlando car accident, Cardinal Law treated our family with such care and understanding. They handled everything so we could grieve and be there for our children. Their dedication resulted in a settlement that will secure our family's future."
- Jennifer M., Orlando
Serving Communities Throughout Orange County
Our Orlando wrongful death lawyers represent families throughout the greater Orlando metro area and surrounding communities.
Downtown Orlando
Winter Park
College Park
Lake Nona
Dr. Phillips
Windermere
Maitland
Altamonte Springs
Apopka
Winter Garden
Ocoee
Pine Hills
Belle Isle
Hunters Creek
Kissimmee
International Drive
Universal Studios Area
Disney World Area
Orange County Court Experience
Our attorneys have extensive experience in the Orange County court system, including knowledge of local judges, court procedures, and mediation practices. This local expertise allows us to navigate your case efficiently and anticipate potential challenges.
Centrally Located Office
Our Orlando office at 200 E Robinson Street is conveniently located in downtown Orlando, easily accessible from all parts of Orange County and Central Florida. We also offer virtual consultations for families who prefer to meet remotely.
Orlando Wrongful Death FAQ
Answers to common questions about wrongful death claims in Florida.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Orlando, Florida?
Under Florida Statutes 768.20, only the personal representative of the deceased person's estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, the lawsuit is filed on behalf of eligible survivors including the surviving spouse, minor children, adult children (if no surviving spouse), parents (if the deceased was a minor or had no spouse or children), and blood relatives or adoptive siblings who were partly or wholly dependent on the deceased for support or services.
What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Orlando?
In Florida, wrongful death lawsuits must be filed within 2 years from the date of death. However, there are important exceptions: medical malpractice cases may have special notice requirements and different timelines, and cases involving government entities may have shorter notice periods. It is crucial to contact an Orlando wrongful death lawyer immediately to preserve your rights and ensure all deadlines are met.
What types of damages can be recovered in an Orlando wrongful death case?
Florida law allows survivors to recover multiple types of damages including: lost support and services the deceased would have provided, loss of companionship and protection, loss of parental guidance (for minor children), mental pain and suffering of survivors, medical expenses incurred before death, funeral and burial costs, lost wages and future earnings the deceased would have earned, and in cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, punitive damages may also be available.
How much does it cost to hire an Orlando wrongful death lawyer?
Cardinal Law handles all wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay absolutely nothing upfront and no legal fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your family. Our fee is a percentage of the recovery, and we advance all case costs including expert witness fees, court filing fees, and investigation expenses. This allows grieving families to access top-quality legal representation without financial burden.
How long does a wrongful death lawsuit take in Orange County?
Wrongful death cases in Orange County typically take anywhere from 12 to 36 months to resolve, depending on the complexity of the case, the willingness of insurance companies to negotiate fairly, and whether trial is necessary. While we work efficiently to resolve your case, we never rush settlements at the expense of fair compensation. Many cases settle through negotiation, but we are always prepared to take your case to trial if that is what is required to obtain justice for your family.
What should I do immediately after losing a loved one due to someone else's negligence in Orlando?
First, take time to grieve and care for yourself and your family. When you are ready, consider these important steps: preserve all evidence related to the incident including photos, documents, and contact information for witnesses; obtain copies of the death certificate and any accident or incident reports; keep records of all expenses including medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income; avoid speaking with insurance adjusters or signing any documents before consulting an attorney; and contact an experienced Orlando wrongful death lawyer for a free consultation to understand your legal rights and options.
Let Us Help Your Family Seek Justice
If you have lost a loved one due to someone else's negligence in Orlando or Orange County, our compassionate wrongful death lawyers are here to help. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. There is no obligation, and you will never pay any fees unless we recover compensation for your family.
200 E Robinson Street, Suite 1120, Orlando, FL 32801
Available 24/7 for Emergencies
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Visit Our Florida Offices
Cardinal Law has offices throughout Florida to serve you better. Our main office is in Naples, with additional locations by appointment.
Naples Office
Main Office9045 Strada Stell Court
Suite 305
Naples, FL 34109
Orlando Office
200 E Robinson Street
Suite 1120
Orlando, FL 32801
Tampa Office
401 East Jackson Street
Suite 2340
Tampa, FL 33602
Miami Office
848 Brickell Avenue
Suite PH5
Miami, FL 33131
Fort Myers Office
5237 Summerlin Commons Blvd
Suite 511
Fort Myers, FL 33907
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