If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence in Vermont, understanding your legal rights is a critical first step toward justice. This guide covers Vermont’s wrongful death laws, profiles three law firms that handle these cases, and answers the most important questions families face.
Introduction
Losing a family member due to another party’s negligence is devastating. Vermont provides a 3-year filing window and imposes no caps on wrongful death damages, giving families a strong path to full compensation.
Vermont Wrongful Death Laws
The Vermont Wrongful Death Statute
Vermont’s wrongful death law is governed by Vermont Statutes Title 14 § 1492. The statute requires the Personal Representative of the deceased’s estate to file the claim.
Who Can File
The Personal Representative of the deceased’s estate must file.
Statute of Limitations
Vermont imposes a 3-year statute of limitations, measured from the date of death.
Recoverable Damages
Vermont allows recovery for pecuniary loss, loss of companionship, and funeral expenses. There are no caps on wrongful death damages in Vermont.
Survival Action
Vermont maintains a separate survival action alongside the wrongful death claim.
Top 3 Wrongful Death Attorneys in Vermont
1. Paul Frank + Collins P.C.
Location: Burlington, VT (Serving statewide)
Phone: (802) 658-2311
Website: https://pfclaw.com
One of Vermont’s largest and most respected full-service firms. Their personal injury and wrongful death team handles the state’s most complex fatal accident cases, backed by the financial resources and expert witness network required to pursue maximum uncapped compensation for loss of companionship and pecuniary loss.
2. Tarrant, Gillies & Shems
Location: Montpelier & Burlington, VT
Phone: (802) 229-0825
Website: https://tgslaw.com
A respected Vermont litigation firm with strong ties to the state’s courts. They provide thorough legal guidance for families navigating both the probate appointment process and the wrongful death and survival action claims. They are skilled at fatal workplace and motor vehicle cases.
3. Lisman Leckerling, P.C.
Location: Burlington, VT
Phone: (802) 864-5756
Website: https://lisman.com
A well-established Vermont firm with extensive personal injury experience. They handle complex fatal accident claims across the state and are adept at coordinating with out-of-state firms when a wrongful death involves defendants or witnesses from outside Vermont.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there caps on damages in Vermont?
No. Vermont imposes no caps on wrongful death damages.
What should I do immediately after losing a loved one due to negligence?
Contact a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. The 3-year deadline runs from the date of death. Preserve all evidence and do not speak with insurance companies before consulting an attorney.
Closing
Vermont’s no caps framework and 3-year filing window provide families with strong legal tools. The firms listed above have the resources to pursue maximum recovery. If you have lost a loved one due to another party’s negligence, contact one of these attorneys today.
For immediate grief support, contact the National Alliance for Grieving Children at (866) 432-1542.