When a loved one dies as the result of actions taken by another party, the loss to the family will be significant. Even with criminal proceedings underway, it does not hurt to talk with one of the Wrongful Death Lawyers in Burlington VT. Doing so will make it easier to understand what types of action outside of the criminal case can be pursued.
Civil Versus Criminal Action
Even though the criminal case is underway, there may be grounds for filing a civil suit. This is especially true when the evidence of wrongdoing is significant. One of the Wrongful Death Lawyers in Burlington VT, can assess the information available and determine if there are grounds for filing a civil suit. Keep in mind that the amount of evidence that can be included in a civil case may be different from what is allowed during a criminal prosecution.
When to File the Suit
Assuming the lawyer believes there are grounds for filing a civil action, the issue of when to file the suit must be settled. If the criminal case is already in court, the advice may be to wait and see what the outcome of that action happens to be. Once the verdict is rendered, the lawyer will move ahead with filing the civil suit. Assuming the verdict in the criminal case was guilty, the odds of receiving a similar verdict in the civil action are very good. Visit here to get more information.
Remember that even if the verdict in the criminal case is not guilty, that does not mean a civil suit is doomed to fail. There are numerous instances where the accused party emerged victorious in a criminal case but was found guilty in a civil suit. The lawyer can help the client understand what to expect and why there is a good chance of winning the case.
For anyone who wonders if filing a wrongful death suit is appropriate, contact the team at McVeigh Skiff LLP. A lawyer will take a look at all the available information and help the client determine if pursuing such a case is in the best interests of everyone concerned. If the decision is to proceed, rest assured the legal counsel will use every legal option available in the pursuit of justice.