Indiana Wrongful Death Lawyer
Helping residents throughout Fishers, Hamilton County, Indianapolis, and the entire state of Indiana
Do You Need Legal Help?
Indiana Wrongful Death Lawyer
Helping residents throughout Fishers, Hamilton County, Indianapolis, and the entire state of Indiana
Do You Need Legal Help?
Attorney Christopher Wyant is here to help you.
An injury can be devastating to you and your family. Attorney Christopher Wyant believes that lawyers should be approachable and easy to talk to. It shouldn't be difficult to get advice about a situation that might be unfamiliar to you and to have your rights explained to you. Contact Chris for help with your injury case.
Chris focused on my auto accident case with great attention to detail. His expertise helped me negotiate with my auto and health insurance companies -- and handled all the necessary paperwork. Chris was always responsive and provided sound advice, allowing me to make the final decisions. My case went to trial, which he handled without incident. I highly recommend Chris Wyant and Wyant Law.
- Bryan M.
Highly recommend! Before I got to Chris I had reached out to a handful of lawyers in regards to my car accident and basically all closed the door for me since many did not work with property damage cases. Chris was amazing and always kept my husband and I updated on our case. He made the process super smooth and explained everything thoroughly. Super thankful for him and his office.
- Estefany O.
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Indiana Wrongful Death Lawyer
Losing someone you love because of another person’s carelessness is one of the most difficult things a family can endure. The grief alone is heavy enough. But when that loss also brings medical bills, funeral costs, and a sudden gap in your household income, the weight can feel impossible.
An Indiana wrongful death lawyer at Wyant Law can help carry that burden. Attorney Christopher D. Wyant has more than 20 years of experience representing families across Fishers, Hamilton County, and greater Indianapolis who have lost loved ones in fatal car crashes, truck accidents, and other preventable tragedies.
We handle the legal fight while you focus on your family.
Contact us online or call (317) 683-0333 for a free consultation.
Why Do I Need an Indiana Wrongful Death Lawyer?
A wrongful death claim in Indiana involves strict filing rules, multiple statutes, and aggressive insurance defense tactics. An experienced wrongful death attorney protects your family’s right to fair compensation during an incredibly difficult time. Indiana’s wrongful death laws are more complicated than most people expect. Three separate statutes apply depending on whether your loved one had a spouse or dependents, was an unmarried adult without dependents, or was a child. The wrong filing approach can limit your family’s recovery or result in the case being dismissed. On top of that, insurance companies move quickly after a fatal accident. Their goal is to settle for as little as possible before your family has time to evaluate the full financial impact of your loss. Extensive research supports hiring a lawyer. Studies show that people who work with a lawyer receive substantially higher insurance payouts than those who handle their own claims, even after paying lawyer fees. The same research also found that nine out of ten people received a settlement when they used an attorney, compared to five out of ten who didn’t use an attorney. Christopher Wyant works directly with every family he represents and provides honest, straightforward guidance from the first phone call through resolution.Why Choose Wyant Law for Your Indiana Wrongful Death Case?
Choosing a wrongful death attorney is one of the most important decisions your family will make. Here is what sets Wyant Law apart.More Than 20 Years Fighting for Indiana Families
Attorney Christopher Wyant has spent over two decades representing injury victims and grieving families across Indiana. That experience includes wrongful death claims involving car accidents, truck crashes, and other fatal incidents.Direct, Personal Communication
Losing a loved one is deeply personal, and your legal representation should reflect that. When you work with Wyant Law, you communicate directly with Christopher Wyant throughout the entire process.Recognized by Super Lawyers
Christopher Wyant earned the Super Lawyers Rising Star recognition, a distinction given to fewer than 2.5% of Indiana attorneys.No Fee Unless You Recover Compensation
Wyant Law works on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront and owe no attorney fees unless your case results in a financial recovery for your family.Rooted in Fishers and Hamilton County
From the Hamilton County courts to the greater Indianapolis area, Wyant Law serves families who need trusted local legal representation during the most difficult chapter of their lives.Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Indiana?
Only the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana. This rule surprises many families. The personal representative is the person appointed through probate court to manage the estate’s legal and financial affairs. In many cases, this is a surviving spouse or adult child. Here is how the three Indiana wrongful death statutes break down:General Wrongful Death Statute (IC 34-23-1-1)
This applies when the deceased had a surviving spouse, dependent children, or dependent next of kin. There is no cap on total damages. Compensation is distributed to surviving dependents.Adult Wrongful Death Statute (IC 34-23-1-2)
This applies to unmarried adults without dependents. A $300,000 cap applies to loss of love and companionship damages. Medical, funeral, and burial expenses are recoverable on top of that cap.Child Wrongful Death Statute (IC 34-23-2-1)
This applies to the death of a minor (under 20, or under 23 if enrolled in school). Parents can file directly without going through a personal representative. There is no cap on damages except in cases involving government entities. Figuring out which statute applies to your situation is one of the first things Christopher Wyant evaluates when meeting with a family.What Compensation Can Families Recover in an Indiana Wrongful Death Case?
The compensation available depends on which statute applies and your family’s specific circumstances.| Type of Damages | What They Cover |
|---|---|
| Medical expenses | Hospital bills, emergency treatment, and other care your loved one received before passing. |
| Funeral and burial costs | Reasonable expenses related to the funeral, burial, or cremation. |
| Lost future income | The wages and benefits your loved one would have earned over their remaining working life. |
| Loss of love and companionship | The emotional bond, care, guidance, and affection your family has lost. Capped at $300,000 only for claims filed for unmarried adults without dependents. |
| Loss of household services | The value of contributions your loved one made to the household, such as childcare, home maintenance, and daily support. |
How long do you have to sue for wrongful death in Indiana?
Indiana Code 34-11-2-4 gives families two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This is not two years from the date of the accident. If your loved one survived for a period after being injured and later passed away, the clock starts on the date of death. Two years may sound like enough time, but the probate process alone can take weeks or months. The personal representative must be appointed before the lawsuit can be filed, and evidence gathering in a fatal accident case requires prompt action. If your claim involves a government entity, even shorter notice deadlines of 180 to 270 days may apply. Missing any of these windows can permanently bar your family from recovering compensation. The safest step is to contact Wyant Law as soon as possible so that your family’s rights and evidence are protected from the start.Wrongful Death FAQs
Losing a loved one due to a wrongful death accident in Indiana can be a devastating experience. Here are some frequently asked questions about wrongful death accidents in Indiana:Common legal questions about wrongful death claims in Indiana
What is a wrongful death accident in Indiana?
A wrongful death accident is an incident in which a person dies due to the negligent or intentional actions of another party. Examples of wrongful death accidents include car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, medical malpractice, and slip and fall accidents.
How can an attorney help with a wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana?
An experienced Indiana wrongful death lawyer can help you in many ways, including:
- Investigating the accident to determine who was at fault and the extent of damages
- Gathering evidence to support your claim, such as witness statements, medical records, and accident reports
- Calculating the amount of compensation you are entitled to receive
- Negotiating with insurance companies or the responsible party to reach a fair settlement
- Representing you in court if a settlement cannot be reached
What should I do if I believe I have a wrongful death case in Indiana?
If you believe you have a wrongful death case in Indiana, it is important to act quickly. Contact an experienced wrongful death attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.
During your initial consultation, the attorney will ask you questions about the accident, your loved one, and your family’s financial situation. They will also explain the legal process and what you can expect throughout the lawsuit.
Remember that wrongful death lawsuits are complex and require a thorough investigation of the accident, so it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible to ensure that your case is handled properly and you receive the compensation you deserve.
A wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana can provide compensation for the losses you have suffered as a result of the negligent or wrongful conduct of another party. If you believe you have a case, it is important to contact an experienced wrongful death attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Can I still file a wrongful death lawsuit if the responsible party is facing criminal charges?
Yes, you can still file a wrongful death lawsuit even if the responsible party is facing criminal charges. The criminal charges and the wrongful death lawsuit are two separate legal processes. The criminal charges are brought by the state and aim to punish the responsible party for their actions, while the wrongful death lawsuit is a civil action brought by the deceased person’s family to recover compensation for their losses.
However, if the responsible party is convicted of a crime related to the accident, it can help strengthen your wrongful death lawsuit by providing evidence of their negligence or wrongdoing.
How long does a wrongful death lawsuit take in Indiana?
The length of a wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the amount of damages being sought, and whether the case goes to trial or is settled outside of court. Some cases may be resolved within a few months, while others can take several years.
Your attorney can give you a better idea of how long your case is likely to take based on the specific circumstances of your case.
Can I afford to hire a wrongful death attorney in Indiana?
Yes, most wrongful death attorneys in Indiana work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you will not have to pay any upfront fees to your attorney. Instead, your attorney will only be paid if they successfully recover compensation on your behalf. The attorney’s fees will be a percentage of the amount of compensation you receive.
How can I find a wrongful death attorney in Indiana?
You can find a wrongful death attorney in Indiana by doing an online search, asking for referrals from friends or family members, or contacting your local bar association for a referral. When choosing an attorney, be sure to look for someone who has experience handling wrongful death cases and who you feel comfortable working with.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana?
In Indiana, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate is allowed to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This is a person who has been appointed by the court to act as the legal representative for the Estate of the deceased person and is given the power to pursue the wrongful death case on behalf of the Estate.
What damages can be recovered in a wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana?
The damages that can be recovered in a wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses related to the deceased person’s final injury or illness
- Loss of the deceased person’s earnings and future earning capacity
- Loss of companionship, love, and affection
- Pain and suffering of the deceased person before death
What is the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana?
In Indiana, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is two years from the date of the deceased person’s injury that caused their death.
This means that you have two years from the date of the deceased person’s injury that caused their death to file a lawsuit. If you fail to file within this timeframe, you may be barred from pursuing legal action.
How long does a wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana typically take?
The length of a wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the amount of damages being sought, and whether the case goes to trial or is settled outside of court. Some cases may be resolved within a few months, while others can take several years.
How much does it cost to hire a wrongful death attorney in Indiana?
Most Indiana wrongful death lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you will not have to pay any upfront fees to your attorney. Instead, your attorney will only be paid if they successfully recover compensation on your behalf. The attorney’s fees will be a percentage of the amount of compensation you receive.
I
Ask Wyant Law About Your Indiana Wrongful Death Claim
Q: What if the insurance company already made us an offer after the accident?
A: Early offers from insurance companies are almost always lower than what your family’s claim is worth. Insurers move quickly, hoping to settle before families calculate the full financial impact of their loss, including future income, household contributions, and non-economic damages. Christopher Wyant will review the offer and advise your family on whether it reflects fair value.Q: When should you not accept a settlement offer?
A: If the offer comes before your family fully knows the long-term financial impact of your loss, it is likely too soon. Insurance companies often present early offers hoping families will accept before calculating future lost income, ongoing household costs, and the full scope of non-economic damages. Wyant Law reviews every offer carefully and advises you when the numbers reflect fair value.Q: Can siblings file a wrongful death lawsuit in Indiana?
A: Siblings cannot file directly. Only the personal representative of the estate can bring a wrongful death claim. However, siblings who were financially dependent on the deceased may be among the beneficiaries who receive compensation once the case is resolved.Q: Who receives the money from an Indiana wrongful death settlement?
A: Distribution depends on which statute applies. When the deceased had dependents, compensation goes to the surviving spouse, dependent children, or dependent next of kin following Indiana’s estate distribution rules. Wyant Law walks families through exactly how this works.What Types of Accidents Lead to Wrongful Death Claims in Indiana?
A wrongful death claim can arise whenever someone’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct causes another person’s death. In central Indiana, the most common scenarios include:- Fatal car accidents caused by distracted, impaired, or reckless drivers on roads like I-69, I-65, and I-70
- Truck accidents involving commercial vehicles on Indiana’s busy freight corridors
- Motorcycle accidents where another driver failed to yield or check their blind spot
- Pedestrian accidents in high-traffic areas around Fishers, Noblesville, and downtown Indianapolis
- Drunk driving crashes where an impaired driver took someone’s life
How Does Comparative Fault Apply to Indiana Wrongful Death Cases?
Indiana follows a modified comparative fault system (IC 34-51-2). Your family can still recover compensation even if your loved one shared some fault for the accident, as long as their share does not exceed 50%. If fault is shared, compensation is reduced by the deceased person’s percentage of responsibility. Insurance companies frequently try to shift blame onto the deceased person to lower what they owe. Christopher Wyant works to make sure fault is assigned fairly and that your family’s claim reflects what actually happened.
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Wyant Law Stands With Indiana Families After a Wrongful Death
No amount of money replaces the person your family lost. But a wrongful death claim can provide financial stability and hold the responsible party accountable. Attorney Christopher D. Wyant has spent more than 20 years helping Indiana families through this process with honesty, compassion, and experienced legal representation. From our office in Fishers, we serve families across Hamilton County and greater Indianapolis. Contact Wyant Law online or call (317) 683-0333 for a free consultation today.Client Reviews
Chris was awesome from the very first meeting. Very professional and knowledgeable. He knew what needed to be done and what he needed from us. He was exceptionally easy to work with and very patient with all of the questions we had. All we had to do was either call or email him with a question and he responded as quickly as he could. I couldn’t be happier with his services. I would definitely recommend his practice to anyone.
Rita Bridge
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