The following people are eligible to make a dependency claim:

• The deceased’s spouse or civil partner
• In limited circumstances, a former spouse of the deceased
• A partner of the deceased (who had been living with the deceased for at least two years immediately prior to death)
• A child of the deceased
• A parent of the deceased
• A brother, sister, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew or cousin of the deceased
• Any other person who was considered by the deceased as a child of the family

The list of people who can make a claim for a Statutory Bereavement Award is narrower than those who can claim as a dependent, namely:

• A wife, husband or civil partner of the deceased;
• An unmarried couple who can prove that they were living together for at least two years prior to the death;
• In respect of a deceased unmarried child under 18, the parents (who split the award). If the parents of the child were unmarried at the date of death, only the mother can claim.

We understand that the eligibility list is frustratingly restrictive. Therefore, we will look at all other types of compensation that you may be able to claim.

You must make a fatal accident compensation claim within three years of your loved one’s death or three years from the date you became aware that an accident or industrial disease caused their death.

Fatal accident claims can be complex. We have extensive experience in dealing with these types of claims and will ensure your application and the calculation of your claim progresses smoothly.

By instructing us, you will not have to deal with the complexities of making a claim and answering questions from insurers etc. This can be highly stressful at a time when you are grieving and dealing with the financial and emotional impact of a loved one’s death. Our team will support you throughout the entire claims process and ensure you are protected from having to deal with the details and any negotiations.

If we can take on your case, we can offer a No Win, No Fee agreement. This means you will not have to pay any money upfront for your legal fees. You will have to pay expenses related to your case. These are known as disbursements and include things such as court or expert report fees. Disbursements can be covered by an insurance product called After the Event Insurance. After the Event Insurance can also cover any Court Order to pay the other side’s costs if you lose your claim.

If you win your case, the other side is likely to be ordered to pay most of your legal costs and our legal fees. We will take a success fee in recognition of taking on the risk of your claim, and the percentage will be agreed in advance. The most important thing is you do not have to take on any risk because if you lose your claim, you will not pay any legal fees, and the disbursements will be covered by insurance.

You can be completely confident that there are no hidden costs. As an SRA regulated law firm, we have a legal duty to be fully transparent with you regarding how much you will pay.

Let us advise and represent you on your personal injury claim. You can trust that we will always be on your side, protecting your best interests, and working tirelessly to get you the compensation you need.

Contact us on 0333 123 1331 or fill in our contact form and we will get back to you as quickly as possible.