Losing a family member due to another's negligence is devastating. In addition to your grief, you face financial strain, unanswered questions, and the knowledge that a preventable act took someone you love. The Henry Law Firm pursues justice and financial accountability on behalf of surviving families throughout Defiance and Defiance County.
The Two-Year Window to File Cannot Be Missed
Ohio's wrongful death statute of limitations is two years from the date of death (ORC § 2125.02). Missing this deadline permanently bars your family's claim. The Henry Law Firm acts promptly to investigate, preserve evidence, and ensure your rights are protected within the legal time limits.
What is Wrongful Death Under Ohio Law?
Under Ohio Revised Code § 2125.01, a wrongful death claim can be filed when a person's death is caused by a wrongful act, neglect, or default. The personal representative of the deceased person's estate files the lawsuit on behalf of the surviving family members (beneficiaries).
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
- Motor vehicle accidents — car, truck, and motorcycle collisions
- Medical malpractice — surgical errors, misdiagnosis, medication errors
- Workplace accidents — construction falls, industrial accidents
- Defective products — dangerous consumer products and medications
- Nursing home abuse and neglect
- Premises liability — unsafe property conditions
- Criminal acts — assault, DUI-related deaths
Ohio Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations
In Ohio, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years from the date of death (Ohio Revised Code § 2125.02). Acting quickly is crucial to preserving evidence and meeting legal deadlines.
Compensation Available in Wrongful Death Cases
- Loss of support — the income and benefits the deceased would have provided
- Loss of services — household contributions, parenting, companionship
- Loss of companionship — the emotional impact on surviving family
- Mental anguish of surviving family members
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses incurred before death
Ohio's wrongful death statute covers economic damages (lost income, lost services, funeral expenses) and non-economic damages (loss of companionship, mental anguish). There is no cap on non-economic damages in wrongful death cases under Ohio law — unlike the caps that apply in medical malpractice cases.
Compassionate, Results-Oriented Representation
The Henry Law Firm handles wrongful death cases with the sensitivity these tragedies demand — and the tenacity that results require. Eric Henry personally handles every wrongful death case, ensuring your family receives both compassion and the strongest possible legal advocacy.
Your Attorney: Eric Henry
The Henry Law Firm is built around one attorney, one standard: Eric Henry personally reviews every file, makes every key decision, and is accessible to clients throughout Defiance County and across Ohio.
Eric and his team proudly serve residents of Defiance and Defiance County from offices in Chagrin Falls and Cleveland.
What Our Clients Say
"The Henry Law Firm did an outstanding job handling my medical malpractice case. They were professional, compassionate, and really took the time to explain all my options. I felt supported throughout." — Henry P., Google Review
"Absolutely no hesitation giving a five-star review. The Henry Law Firm performed above and beyond, always took and returned calls, listened carefully, and left no stone unturned." — D.L., Google Review
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Ohio?
Under Ohio law, only the personal representative (executor or administrator) of the deceased person's estate can file a wrongful death claim. The claim is filed on behalf of the surviving beneficiaries, which typically include the spouse, children, and parents of the deceased.
What compensation is available in a Defiance wrongful death case?
Beneficiaries may recover loss of financial support, loss of services (household contributions, parenting), loss of companionship, mental anguish, funeral and burial expenses, and medical expenses incurred before death. Ohio does not cap economic damages in wrongful death cases.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim?
The statute of limitations is two years from the date of death (Ohio Revised Code § 2125.02). Do not delay — evidence can be lost and witnesses' memories fade over time.
Other Practice Areas in Defiance
The Henry Law Firm handles a full range of personal injury cases for Defiance residents. Explore our other practice areas:
Car Accident Lawyer
Truck Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Nursing Home Abuse Lawyer
Slip and Fall Lawyer
Premises Liability Lawyer
Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Serving Defiance from Our Ohio Offices
The Henry Law Firm serves Defiance and all of Defiance County from two convenient locations:
- 8401 Chagrin Road, Suite 18, Chagrin Falls, OH 44023
- 850 Euclid Ave, Suite 1012, Cleveland, OH 44114
We offer free consultations by phone, video, or in person. If your injuries prevent you from traveling, we can come to you anywhere in Defiance County. Call (216) 302-9500 to schedule.
Free, Confidential Wrongful Death Consultation for Defiance Families
Your family deserves justice. The Henry Law Firm will evaluate your wrongful death case at no cost. Call (216) 302-9500 any time — 24/7 availability for Defiance and Defiance County.
Content reviewed by Eric Henry, Esq. — Last updated April 2026.
