Wrongful Death Lawyer
Personal Injury Services
Need help?
Talk directly with Joshua.
Share the basic facts and records you have so the firm can evaluate whether it may be able to assist.
Call the firm
(954) 591-8099
Compassionate Legal Support for Your Family
Losing a family member because of a preventable incident leaves questions that no lawsuit can fully answer. A wrongful death claim is not a replacement for the person who died. It is a legal process for determining responsibility and addressing losses that Florida law recognizes.
The Costello Law Group represents families in Cooper City, Broward County, and throughout South Florida after fatal motor vehicle crashes, unsafe property incidents, and other events involving alleged negligence or wrongful conduct. Attorney Joshua Costello works directly with the family and personal representative, explains the process with care, and coordinates the investigation so relatives are not left to manage evidence and insurance communications alone.
Understanding the Legal Process
How a Florida Wrongful Death Claim Works
Florida’s Wrongful Death Act provides that the action is brought by the decedent’s personal representative for the benefit of eligible survivors and the estate. The personal representative must identify potential beneficiaries and their relationships to the person who died. Because the probate appointment and civil claim are connected, early coordination is important.
The claim must establish a wrongful act, negligence, default, or breach that would have allowed the injured person to maintain an action if death had not occurred. The evidence may include crash or incident records, photographs, video, witness accounts, medical records, expert analysis, employment and financial records, and information held by a business or insurer.
Understanding Your Family’s Potential Damages
Losses Recognized Under Florida Law
Available damages depend on the survivors, their relationship to the decedent, the circumstances of the death, and the law governing the underlying claim. Florida law may permit recovery for loss of support and services. A surviving spouse may have claims involving companionship, protection, and mental pain and suffering. Certain children or parents may have additional rights. Medical and funeral expenses and defined estate losses may also be recoverable in appropriate cases.
These categories are detailed and do not apply identically to every family. The attorney should identify all potential survivors, review the estate structure, and explain which losses can be documented rather than relying on a generic settlement formula.
Protecting Your Claim From the Start
Deadlines and Early Evidence
Florida generally requires a wrongful death action to be filed within two years, though the correct deadline can change with the defendant, cause of action, and limited statutory exceptions. Claims involving a government entity or other special circumstances can have separate notice rules. Families should obtain advice promptly even while probate questions are being addressed.
Early work can preserve vehicle data, surveillance video, maintenance or employment records, photographs, witness information, and physical evidence. The firm can also communicate with insurers and other parties so the family understands what is being requested before signing releases or providing detailed statements.
Get Compassionate Legal Guidance
Talk With Joshua About a Fatal Accident
If your family lost someone because of a suspected wrongful act or negligence, contact The Costello Law Group for a confidential review. Joshua will listen, explain the legal framework, and identify practical next steps without pressuring the family to make an immediate decision.
- Direct communication with Joshua
- Focused case preparation
- Clear explanation of options
- Florida representation
Answers to Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who brings a wrongful death lawsuit in Florida?
A Florida wrongful death action is brought by the deceased person’s personal representative for the benefit of eligible survivors and the estate. Family members should not assume that each person files a separate lawsuit. The firm can explain how the representative’s role relates to the potential claim.
What information should our family gather for a consultation?
Useful records may include the death certificate, accident or incident reports, medical records, insurance correspondence, and information about the person’s surviving family. If an estate has been opened or a personal representative appointed, bring those documents as well.
Do we need every record before contacting an attorney?
No. You can begin with the information you have. An initial conversation can help identify missing records, possible deadlines, and questions about the estate. You do not need to complete your own investigation before asking for guidance.
Can you help if our family lives outside Florida?
Yes, the firm can review a potential Florida wrongful death matter even if eligible family members live elsewhere. The Costello Law Group is based in Cooper City and serves families with matters throughout Florida. The location of the incident and other legal factors will help determine how the case should proceed.
Based in Cooper City. Serving Davie, Pembroke Pines, and clients throughout Florida. Contact The Costello Law Group at (954) 591-8099 to discuss.
Free Consultation
Tell us what happened.
Share the basic facts and the records you have. The firm can evaluate whether the matter falls within its current services and explain what additional information may be needed.
Joshua Costello
The Costello Law Group
Do not send confidential information until the firm confirms representation.