The relationship between parents and their children is one of the most powerful bonds that can be found – often thought of as “unbreakable”. These relationships last a lifetime, and in many cases, grow stronger with the passing years. So, it’s easy to understand why one of the most nightmarish things that can happen to a parent is to have their child die.

When, because of someone else’s negligence, a husband loses a wife, or a wife loses a husband, the surviving spouse can sue the negligent person to be compensated for the loss of that loving relationship. When a parent loses a young child – not yet 18 years old – the parent can also sue for compensation for the loss of that loving relationship. But this is usually not the case when a child who is over 18 dies, unless the parent relied on the child for financial support.

There is one recovery that can be made, however. The law allows the recovery of the wage or economic loss that the deceased child would have earned in their lifetime. That amount can be significant, but it can never adequately compensate for the loss of the relationship between a parent and their child.

As wrongful death attorneys in Everett, we are members of the Washington Association of Justice (WSAJ), the leading trial lawyers organization, which has worked hard to change this law. In the last legislative session, the bill allowing families to recover for their children came close to becoming law, but unfortunately it didn’t. We, along with the WSAJ, are committed to trying to get this law changed, in order to value this tremendous loss for Washington parents.

At Kadish Twersky, we are experienced in lawsuits involving the wrongful death of loved ones. If you have lost someone due to a poor driver or due to someone’s negligence, call our personal injury firm in Everett for a free consultation. We will make the claims that are available for your loved one, and we are confident that the law will change. We have over 75 years of combined experience as personal injury lawyers and we are here to help you.

This website includes general information about legal issues to be used for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current legal developments. These informational materials are not intended, and must not be taken, as legal advice on any particular set of facts or circumstances or to create an attorney-client relationship.