Losing a loved one unexpectedly is heartbreaking—and when that loss was caused by someone else’s negligence, the pain is even harder to process. You deserve answers. You deserve justice. And you deserve time to grieve while an experienced legal team handles the rest.

At Rickard, Drew & Nix, our Sandy Springs wrongful death lawyers help families pursue accountability and compensation after fatal accidents. Whether your loved one died in a car crash, workplace incident, medical error, or due to unsafe premises, we’re here to support you through every step of the legal process.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in Georgia?

A wrongful death occurs when someone dies because of another party’s negligent, reckless, or intentional act. In Georgia, surviving family members have the right to file a claim to recover for the “full value of the life” of the deceased.

That includes both:

• Tangible losses – Lost income, benefits, and financial contributions
• Intangible value – The loss of companionship, care, guidance, and enjoyment of life

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Georgia?

According to Georgia law, the following individuals can bring a wrongful death claim:

1. Spouse
2. Children, if there is no surviving spouse
3. Parents, if there are no spouse or children
4. Estate representative, if no immediate family exists

If awarded, damages are typically distributed among surviving family members.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle

• Car accidents – Including drunk driving, distracted driving, or reckless driving
• Truck or motorcycle crashes
• Pedestrian or bicycle collisions
• Workplace accidents
• Defective products or machinery
• Medical malpractice
• Negligent property owners (premises liability)

No matter the cause, we conduct thorough investigations and build strong claims backed by evidence and expert testimony.

What Compensation Can Be Recovered?

Wrongful death damages may include:

• Medical expenses – Related to the final injury or illness
• Funeral and burial costs
• Lost income and benefits the deceased would have earned
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support
• Pain and suffering (in some cases)

We’ll work to recover the maximum compensation available under Georgia law.

Why Choose Our Sandy Springs Wrongful Death Lawyers?

• We understand how sensitive these cases are
• We’ll handle the legal work so you can focus on grieving
• We have decades of combined experience handling complex cases
• We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win

You’ve already been through enough. Let us handle the rest.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Georgia?

In most cases, you have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. Some exceptions may apply depending on the circumstances.

Can I file both a wrongful death and survival action?

Yes. A wrongful death claim compensates the family, while a survival action allows the estate to recover damages the deceased could have claimed if they had survived.

How is “full value of life” determined?

Courts consider both the economic and non-economic contributions the deceased would have made, including future earnings and personal relationships.

Do I need an attorney for a wrongful death case?

Yes. These cases involve complex legal and financial issues. An experienced attorney can protect your rights and ensure your family receives fair treatment.

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Talk to a Sandy Springs Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

If you’ve lost a loved one due to negligence or wrongdoing, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. We’re here to help.



Contact Rickard, Drew & Nix today for a free consultation with a Sandy Springs wrongful death attorney.