Florida Wrongful Death Attorneys
Representing Families in Wrongful Death Cases in Orlando, Winter Park, and Throughout Florida
More than 32 years of combined trial experience. Seeking accountability and compensation for families who have lost a loved one.
Losing a loved one changes everything. When that loss was caused by someone else’s negligence, families are often left with unanswered questions, unexpected financial burdens, and difficult decisions about what comes next.
At Tonelli & Tonelli, we help families seek answers and hold responsible parties accountable. From our office in Winter Park, we represent families throughout Florida in wrongful death claims, providing clear guidance and determined advocacy during an exceptionally difficult time.
You do not need to know whether you have a case before contacting us. We can listen to what happened, explain your options, and help you understand the next steps.
When a Preventable Death Becomes a Legal Claim
A wrongful death claim may arise when a person dies because of another party’s negligence or other wrongful conduct. These cases can involve fatal car and truck crashes, unsafe property conditions, defective products, medical negligence, and other preventable incidents.
Establishing responsibility requires more than showing that a tragedy occurred. It takes evidence connecting the responsible party’s conduct to the death. Depending on the circumstances, that evidence may include witness testimony, photographs, surveillance footage, medical records, electronic data, and expert analysis.
Our work begins with understanding what happened, identifying who may be responsible, and determining what evidence is needed to support the claim.
Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Florida?
Under Florida law, a wrongful death lawsuit is brought by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate on behalf of eligible survivors and the estate.
Survivors may include a spouse, children, parents, and certain relatives who depended on the deceased for support or services. The damages available to each survivor depend on the family relationships and circumstances of the case. Special restrictions can apply to deaths resulting from medical negligence.
We help families understand how these rules apply to them and address the estate-related steps necessary to move the claim forward.
What Compensation May Be Available?
No financial recovery can replace the person your family has lost. A wrongful death claim can, however, address the financial and personal consequences of that loss.
Depending on the circumstances and the survivors eligible to recover, compensation may include:
- Lost financial support and household services.
- Loss of a spouse’s companionship and protection.
- Loss of parental companionship, instruction, and guidance.
- Mental pain and suffering for qualifying survivors.
- Medical and funeral expenses.
- Certain lost earnings and financial losses recoverable by the estate.
Understanding these losses requires looking beyond a paycheck or a medical bill. It means understanding the person’s role in the family—the care they provided, the responsibilities they carried, and the support their loved ones relied upon.
How Tonelli & Tonelli Helps
A wrongful death case demands careful investigation, thorough preparation, and attention to the family behind the claim.
We work to preserve evidence, identify responsible parties and available insurance coverage, and document the losses recognized under Florida law. When necessary, we consult qualified experts to evaluate how the death occurred and its financial impact.
We handle communications and negotiations with insurers and opposing counsel, explain significant developments, and help you evaluate decisions throughout the case. If litigation is necessary, we prepare to present the evidence and pursue your family’s claim in court.
Our commitment is straightforward: take your concerns seriously, give you clear answers, and do the work necessary to advocate for your family.
Why It Is Important to Seek Advice Early
Florida wrongful death claims are generally subject to a two-year filing deadline, although exceptions and special rules can affect the time available. Some cases also involve separate notice or procedural requirements.
Evidence can disappear well before a filing deadline approaches. Video may be overwritten, vehicles repaired, and witnesses become harder to locate. Seeking legal advice early allows an attorney to assess deadlines and take steps to preserve important evidence.
You do not need to gather every record or have every question answered before reaching out.
Talk With Us About What Happened
If you believe someone else’s negligence caused your loved one’s death, contact Tonelli & Tonelli. Speaking with us is free, and there is no obligation to hire our firm. We will listen, review the circumstances, and explain whether a claim may be available.
Call 407.883.HURT (407.883.4878) or contact us online.
Serving Winter Park, Orlando, Central Florida, and families throughout Florida.