When a fatal accident in Lakewood is caused by someone else's negligence, Ohio law provides surviving family members with the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. The Henry Law Firm handles these deeply personal and legally complex cases with compassion, experience, and fierce advocacy.
Grief Is Compounded by Financial and Legal Complexity
After a fatal accident in Lakewood, families face funeral expenses, lost household income, medical bills from the final treatment, and the long-term financial impact of losing a provider or caregiver. At the same time, they face a legal system that can be overwhelming to navigate without guidance. The Henry Law Firm handles every legal aspect so your family can focus on healing.
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
Under Ohio Revised Code § 2125.02, a wrongful death action must be filed by the personal representative of the decedent's estate, for the benefit of the surviving spouse, children, and parents. The Henry Law Firm assists families with both the wrongful death claim and any related probate matters.
Full Valuation of All Wrongful Death Damages
Ohio wrongful death damages include loss of support and services, loss of consortium, mental anguish, lost accumulation of estate, funeral and burial expenses, and the deceased's own pain and suffering prior to death. The Henry Law Firm quantifies every element with expert support to maximize your family's recovery.
Your Attorney: Eric Henry
Eric Henry's career is defined by fighting for people who've been hurt by someone else's negligence. More than $50 million recovered. More than 1,000 cases resolved. Over 15 years serving Ohio.
Eric and his team proudly serve residents of Lakewood and Cuyahoga County from offices in Chagrin Falls and Cleveland.
What Our Clients Say
"Eric and his team are great. They get the job done and are very professional. If you want positive results in a timely manner, go with The Henry Law Firm." — Porschia A., Google Review
"Eric Henry is a phenomenal attorney and I can't express in words how great he serves his clients. I appreciate his efforts and the best results for my situation." — Tony 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 Lakewood 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 Lakewood
The Henry Law Firm handles a full range of personal injury cases for Lakewood 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 Lakewood from Our Ohio Offices
The Henry Law Firm serves Lakewood and all of Cuyahoga 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 Cuyahoga County. Call (216) 302-9500 to schedule.
Lost a Loved One in Lakewood? The Henry Law Firm Is Here for Your Family.
We handle wrongful death cases throughout Cuyahoga County and all of Ohio. Free consultation. No fee unless we win. Call (216) 302-9500.
Content reviewed by Eric Henry, Esq. — Last updated April 2026.
