Wrongful Death

Atlanta Wrongful Death Lawyer – Justice for Families After Tragic Loss

When someone else’s careless or reckless actions lead to the death of your loved one, you deserve answers—and accountability. At Ugwonali Law Group, our Atlanta wrongful death lawyer helps grieving families pursue justice and compensation under Georgia law. We’re here to shoulder the legal burden while you focus on healing.

What Is Wrongful Death in Georgia?

A wrongful death occurs when a person is killed due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. In Georgia, wrongful death claims are civil lawsuits brought by surviving family members or the estate—not criminal prosecutions. Even if no one is arrested or charged, you may still have the right to file a claim and recover damages for your loss.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Georgia law sets out a clear hierarchy of who may file a wrongful death lawsuit:


  • The surviving spouse has the first right to file and must also represent the interests of any minor children.
  • Children of the deceased may file if there is no surviving spouse.
  • Parents may bring a claim if there is no surviving spouse or children.
  • The estate can file through a court-appointed representative if none of the above are available.

Each case has its own complexities. Learn more about who can file a wrongful death claim in Georgia.

Damages in a Georgia Wrongful Death Case

Wrongful death compensation in Georgia is unique. There are two types of claims:


  1. The wrongful death claim—filed by family members—for the “full value of the life” of the deceased. This includes both tangible losses (such as lost income and benefits) and intangible value (such as relationships, care, and experiences the person would have continued to enjoy).
  2. The estate claim—filed by the estate—seeks recovery for medical expenses, funeral costs, and the deceased’s pain and suffering before death.

We explain these categories further in our wrongful death compensation guide.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death We Handle

Many types of incidents can give rise to a wrongful death lawsuit. We’ve helped families after:

Fatal car accidents on I-285, I-75, and city streets like Peachtree Road

Truck crashes involving commercial vehicles

Motorcycle or bicycle accidents

Pedestrian deaths at crosswalks or on sidewalks

Negligent security shootings in apartment complexes or parking lots

Nursing home neglect or abuse

Explore our car accident page to learn more about fatal crash claims.

Our Compassionate Approach to Tragic Loss

We understand how devastating it is to lose someone unexpectedly. Families come to us during the worst moments of their lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. While no lawsuit can bring a loved one back, pursuing justice can help relieve financial strain and hold the responsible party accountable. We approach every wrongful death case with empathy, integrity, and tireless advocacy.

What It Takes to Prove a Wrongful Death Case

To succeed in a wrongful death lawsuit, you must show that the defendant’s negligence—or intentional act—caused the death. Proving this often involves:


  • Investigating the incident (e.g., crash reports, surveillance footage)
  • Hiring experts to reconstruct accidents or project future earnings
  • Gathering medical records or witness statements
  • Demonstrating the value of the person’s life in both economic and human terms

Wrongful death cases can be emotionally and legally complex. Ugwonali Law Group is prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.

How Long Do You Have to File?

In most cases, Georgia law gives you two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. However, certain circumstances may pause the clock—for example, if there’s a related criminal case or if the estate hasn’t been established yet.


To protect your rights and avoid missing critical deadlines, it’s best to schedule a consultation as soon as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long do wrongful death cases take?

    Some cases settle in a matter of months, while others—especially those involving litigation—can take a year or more. Each case is different.

  • How is compensation divided among family members?

    Georgia law ensures that a surviving spouse receives no less than one-third of the wrongful death compensation, even if there are multiple children.

  • Is wrongful death compensation taxable?

    Generally, no. Most wrongful death settlements for personal injury damages are not subject to income tax. However, always consult with a tax advisor.

  • Do I need a lawyer to file a wrongful death claim?

    Yes. These cases often involve complex liability questions, large financial stakes, and multiple family members. A lawyer ensures your rights are protected throughout the process.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

Losing a loved one is devastating—but you don’t have to face the legal system alone. Contact our Atlanta wrongful death attorney for a free, compassionate consultation. We’ll walk you through your options, explain your rights, and pursue the justice your family deserves.