Wrongful Death Lawyer Trusted In Columbus, Ohio, Since 1977

Last updated on March 18, 2026

Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence changes your family forever. At Colley Shroyer Abraham, we understand the emotional weight of wrongful death cases and provide compassionate guidance while fighting for the justice your family deserves.

Since 1977, our attorneys have fought for families throughout Columbus and Franklin County in wrongful death claims. We recognize that no compensation can replace your loved one, but pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit can provide financial security and hold negligent parties accountable.

What Counts As Wrongful Death Under Ohio Law?

Per Ohio law, wrongful death is described as a death caused by the wrongful act, neglect or default of another person or entity. This law allows families to pursue compensation when negligence or misconduct leads to a fatal outcome.

Common causes of wrongful death in Columbus include:

• Car accidents on I-70, I-71 and other major roadways
• Truck accidents involving commercial vehicles
• Medical malpractice at local hospitals
• Workplace accidents in construction and manufacturing
• Premises liability incidents on dangerous properties
• Nursing home abuse and neglect

At Colley Shroyer Abraham, our wrongful death attorneys investigate every aspect of your case to identify all responsible parties and build the strongest possible claim.

Understanding Who Can File A Wrongful Death Lawsuit In Columbus

Ohio law requires the deceased person’s personal representative to put forward a wrongful death claim. If your loved one had a will, the will typically names this representative. If no will exists, the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas appoints an administrator.

The personal representative files the lawsuit on behalf of specific beneficiaries:

• The surviving spouse
• Children of the deceased
• Parents of the deceased (if no spouse or children survive)
• Other dependent relatives, in certain cases

Our team helps families navigate the appointment process and ensures all eligible beneficiaries receive proper representation.

What You Need To Know About Estate Claims Versus Survivor Actions In Ohio

Ohio law recognizes two distinct types of claims following a wrongful death. Understanding the difference helps families pursue all available compensation.

A wrongful death claim helps beneficiaries recover losses. These include:

• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship
• Mental anguish
• Funeral expenses

On the other hand, a survival action helps the estate recover losses the deceased person experienced before death. These can include medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages.

At Colley Shroyer Abraham, our wrongful death lawyers evaluate both types of claims to maximize compensation for your family.

What Damages Can You Recover In A Columbus Wrongful Death Case?

Ohio wrongful death law allows families to recover several types of damages. The specific compensation available depends on your case and the impact on surviving family members.

Economic damages compensate for financial losses:

• Loss of the deceased person’s expected income and benefits
• Value of household services the deceased provided
• Loss of prospective inheritance
• Medical bills incurred before death
• Funeral and burial costs

Noneconomic damages address emotional impact:

• Loss of companionship and consortium
• Loss of guidance and protection
• Mental anguish and emotional distress

Our attorneys work with economic analysts and medical professionals to calculate the full value of your family’s losses and pursue maximum compensation.

The Timeline And Process For Wrongful Death Claims

Ohio law imposes a two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims. This deadline begins on the date of death. Missing this deadline typically bars families from pursuing compensation.

We recognize that families need time to grieve. However, we encourage you to contact a wrongful death attorney early to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights. Starting the legal process does not mean you cannot take time for your grief – it ensures you do not forfeit your right to justice.

Our investigation process includes gathering documentation, consulting with medical professionals, interviewing witnesses and identifying all liable parties. Once we complete our investigation, we negotiate with insurance companies to pursue fair compensation. Our attorneys have secured over $250 million in verdicts and settlements throughout our 40-plus years of practice.

Why Trial Experience Matters In Wrongful Death Cases

Insurance companies often undervalue wrongful death claims. At Colley Shroyer Abraham, we have tried hundreds of jury trials and bring that courtroom experience to every negotiation.

Our trial background includes Michael Colley’s unique distinction as the only attorney to serve as president of both the American Association for Justice and the American Board of Trial Advocates. This experience allows us to provide realistic assessments of your case value and pursue the compensation your family deserves. We do not hesitate to take cases to trial when defendants refuse appropriate settlements.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Wrongful Death Attorney In Columbus?

At Colley Shroyer Abraham, we handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee. This means zero hourly fees and upfront costs. We only receive payment if we successfully recover compensation for your family through settlement or trial verdict.

This arrangement allows grieving families to pursue justice without worrying about legal bills during an already difficult financial time. We cover all case expenses, including investigation costs, filing fees and payments to medical professionals who review your case. If we do not win, you owe us nothing.

During your free consultation, we explain our fee structure clearly and answer any questions about costs. Call 614-678-5072 to discuss your case with our compassionate wrongful death lawyers.

Can You File A Wrongful Death Claim If Your Loved One Was Partially At Fault?

Yes, you can still pursue a wrongful death claim in Ohio even if your loved one bears some responsibility for the accident. Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule, which means the court reduces compensation based on the deceased person’s percentage of fault.

However, if your loved one was more than 50% at fault for the accident, Ohio law bars recovery in the wrongful death case. This makes determining fault a critical aspect of your claim.

Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto the deceased person to reduce their payout or deny the claim entirely.

Contact Our Columbus Wrongful Death Lawyers Today

If you lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, we want to help your family pursue justice. Our Ohio wrongful death attorneys offer free consultations to review your case and explain your legal options.

For more than 40 years, we have stood beside grieving families in Columbus, Franklin County and throughout Ohio. We understand the emotional and financial challenges you face.

Call us at 614-678-5072 today to schedule your free consultation with our compassionate wrongful death lawyers. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. You can also reach out online and send us an email.