When someone you love dies because of another person’s mistake, the impact is immediate and lasting. Elizabeth is the county seat of Union County, making it a significant center for legal matters and community life in the region. It’s not just about what happened but what was taken from you. At Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers, we work with families in Elizabeth and throughout Union County who are facing this kind of loss and want answers. If your loved one’s death could have been prevented, give us a call at (908) 460-7277. An Elizabeth wrongful death lawyer can talk you through your options and help you take action.

You are dealing with more than just a legal issue. This is about your family and what comes next. Families deserve answers and justice after a preventable loss. If you’re ready to have a conversation with a skilled Elizabeth wrongful death lawyer, reach out for a confidential consultation or head to our contact page to learn how we can help.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in New Jersey?

A wrongful death claim is filed when someone passes away because of another person or company’s careless or reckless behavior. These cases often stem from car accidents, job-related injuries, dangerous products, or medical mistakes. In New Jersey, wrongful death claims are governed by specific laws that outline who can file and what compensation may be available. The law gives surviving family members a way to seek compensation for their loss’s financial and emotional impact.

In New Jersey, wrongful death cases fall under N.J. Stat. Ann. §2A:31-1, and these cases are part of New Jersey personal injury law. It says that if the person who passed could have filed a personal injury case had they lived, certain loved ones may be able to file a wrongful death suit instead. These cases are not always straightforward, but a knowledgeable wrongful death lawyer or personal injury lawyer in Elizabeth can help you understand your options and guide you through the process.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Elizabeth

Elizabeth is a densely populated and active city, which increases the likelihood of serious accidents. Fatal incidents, including personal injury accidents, can occur in many ways and often leave victims injured or killed due to negligence:

• Car Accidents: A car accident is a common type of personal injury accident that can result in wrongful death. Fatal motor vehicle crashes are among the leading causes of wrongful death. When another driver is reckless, impaired, or distracted, they can be held liable for the loss of life they caused.
• Workplace Accidents: Construction sites, industrial facilities, and warehouses pose serious hazards. Employers or third parties may be held responsible when safety failures or violations contribute to a deadly accident.
• Medical Malpractice: When a healthcare provider’s negligence leads to a patient’s death, families may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit.
• Defective Products: Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can be held liable when unsafe products cause fatal injuries.
• Premises Liability: Property owners have to keep their premises reasonably safe. They may face liability when their failure results in a fatal slip and fall or other deadly incident.

Every wrongful death case is different. At Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers, we take a personalized approach to every claim and investigate each incident thoroughly to identify all responsible parties.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Elizabeth?

Not everyone can file a wrongful death claim in New Jersey. State law says the personal representative of the deceased’s estate has to be the one to file. That is usually someone named in the will, but if there isn’t one—or if no one’s named—the court will appoint someone to take on that role.

Even though the personal representative handles the claim on behalf of the deceased’s estate, any compensation acquired goes to the family members who depended on the person who passed. That might include a spouse, kids (biological or adopted), parents, or even siblings, nieces, or nephews if they relied on the person financially. A wrongful death lawyer in Elizabeth can walk you through what that means for your family and help you figure out where you stand in the process.

Damages Available in a Wrongful Death Claim

No amount of money can bring a loved one back. However, pursuing compensation can help relieve the financial burden caused by their loss. In a wrongful death lawsuit, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of the deceased’s income and financial support
• Lost wages the victim would have earned
• Loss of household services (such as childcare, home maintenance, etc.)
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and care
• Medical bills related to the final injury or illness
• Medical care expenses incurred before death

These damages are awarded to help families regain stability after a tragic and preventable loss by seeking financial compensation and fair compensation for their losses. If the death was caused by egregious or intentional conduct, additional compensation may be available through a survival action, which compensates for the pain, suffering, and emotional distress experienced before death.

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in New Jersey

Wrongful death claims come with a strict time limit. In New Jersey, in most cases, you have two years from the date your loved one passed to file a lawsuit. If you miss this time limit, you could lose the chance to take legal action—the court might throw your case out entirely.

There are a few exceptions, like if the case involves criminal charges or fraud, but those situations do not come up often. To stay safe, it is best to talk to a wrongful death lawyer in Elizabeth sooner rather than later. Getting started early gives your attorney time to gather evidence, find witnesses, and build a strong case for your family.

How Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers Builds a Strong Wrongful Death Case

Proving a wrongful death case takes more than just showing that someone passed away. You have to show that another person’s careless or intentional actions directly caused the death. At Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers, we take a close look at every detail, identify negligent parties responsible for the death, and build the case using strong evidence like accident reports, witness statements, medical records, expert opinions, and financial documents that show the full extent of the loss.

These cases are not just about legal arguments—they are deeply personal. Our experienced legal team has a proven track record of handling complex wrongful death cases. Our attorneys understand what is at stake and handle every case with determination and compassion. We are here to guide you through a process that can feel overwhelming, and we do not take that responsibility lightly.

Why Choose Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers?

When your family is facing one of life’s most challenging moments, you need a team with both experience and compassion. Our team of personal injury attorneys has earned a reputation throughout New Jersey for delivering results and standing up for those who have been wronged.

We are not a volume firm. Each client receives our full attention and a case strategy designed around their unique goals. With law offices and office locations in Elizabeth and throughout Union County, we are accessible for consultations by appointment. Whether negotiating a wrongful death settlement or taking the case to court, we bring the same level of preparation and passion.

We also know that the legal system can be confusing. As experienced Elizabeth personal injury lawyers, we keep our clients informed and empowered throughout every step of the process. Our team is skilled in insurance negotiations, ensuring that clients receive fair and favorable settlements even when insurance companies offer less than what is deserved. When you work with us, you are not just hiring a law firm; you are partnering with advocates who care deeply about your outcome.

We are committed to protecting our clients’ lives and their family’s future, working tirelessly to secure the best possible results and restore peace of mind.

Wrongful Death Case Evaluation

Your first step after losing a loved one may feel like the hardest. That is why we offer a free case evaluation for wrongful death and personal injury claims, providing a no-obligation consultation to discuss your situation and explore your legal options. During your case evaluation, we will explain:

• Whether you have a valid wrongful death claim
• Who can file the lawsuit
• What types of compensation may be available
• What to expect during each phase of the process

If we take your case, we handle it on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win for you. Our priority is protecting your family’s future without adding more financial stress to your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Losing someone to negligence leaves you with more questions than answers—here are some we often hear from families in Elizabeth.

How can a wrongful death lawyer in Elizabeth help me prove who is at fault for my loved one’s death?

A wrongful death lawyer conducts a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death. This often includes reviewing police or accident reports, interviewing witnesses, obtaining surveillance footage, and consulting experts. A strong legal team uses this evidence to establish fault and build a case that holds the negligent party accountable. 

What kind of compensation can I pursue after a wrongful death in Elizabeth?

You can seek a wide range of wrongful death compensation, including funeral and burial costs, loss of income and support, medical expenses, and emotional losses like loss of companionship. The exact amount will depend on your loved one’s contributions to your household and the nature of the wrongful act. 

How do I know if I’m eligible to file a wrongful death claim in Elizabeth?

The personal representative of the deceased’s estate must file the claim, but the compensation secured through the claim can go to family members who depended on the person financially. A wrongful death attorney can review your relationship to determine if you are eligible.

If you have questions, our Elizabeth wrongful death attorneys are here to help and can explain what to expect under New Jersey law. 

Contact a Wrongful Death Attorney in Elizabeth Today

You should not have to choose between grieving and fighting for justice. Let Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers handle the legal burden while you focus on your family. If someone else’s negligence caused your loved one’s death, our team of attorneys are here to help you pursue accountability and the support you need to move forward.

Call (908) 460-7277 today or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation. Our law firm’s wrongful death attorneys in Elizabeth are ready to stand by your side and fight for what matters most.

Written by: Brach Eichler Injury Lawyers Last Updated : July 2, 2025