Often when a family member or loved one dies due to an accident or someone’s careless disregard for life, the most common feelings tend to be extreme grief, fear or uncertainty about the future, and anger. Filing a wrongful death lawsuit is not much of a priority. When it does come up there is lots of uncertainty surrounding the idea.

There are questions about who can file and on what grounds. Family members question if it is possible to quantify a life lost while others are offended by the very idea. When you need guidance on tasks this complex, you should consult a Cocoa wrongful death lawyer.

What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil suit that seeks to compensate for the loss of life caused by negligence or reckless disregard for human life. Receiving compensation will require proving that the life was lost as a direct result of the actions of the negligent party. Getting compensation does not require proving that the negligent party intended to cause your family member’s death.

The at-fault party can be held liable for compensation even if they did not mean to hurt anyone. We only need to prove that they knew that injury or death could occur and they carried on with their actions anyways.

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The Time Limit on Filing a Wrongful Death Suit

The state of Florida has a two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims. You have two years from the date of your loved one’s death to file, failure to do so means that you give up your right to receive compensation for the loss of your family member. 

The Most Common Causes of Wrongful Death Suits

Car accidents are the most often associated with wrongful death claims, it is no surprise that they are the most common cause of death that result in a wrongful death claim. Here are some other causes of death that can result in a wrongful death claim:

• Any automobile accident – car, truck, motorcycle, bus, or any other vehicle.
• Airplane or train wrecks.
• Animal attacks.
• Negligence while committing another criminal act.
• Medical malpractice.
• Work accidents.
• Product liability.
• Neglect or abuse.

how the claim process works

Step 1

Submit your case

With a free case evaluation, submitting your case is easy with us.

Step 2

We take action

Our dedicated team gets to work investigating your claim.

Step 3

We fight for you

If we take on the case, our team fights to get you the maximum compensation legally possible.

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Please describe what happened. We will review your case for free and work to secure the highest legal compensation possible.

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Beatrice Maxime

$1,000,000 Verdict

"I am so very grateful to have had this firm represent me. I was in a car accident a few years ago, but the car insurance company of the person who totaled my car would not replace my car, nor pay for my medical bills. We ended up going to court and because of Mr. Pickett, we won the case. Thank you so much for all you did for us!!!!"

Wrongful Death Prosecution

When another party’s negligence caused your family member’s death it is not the same thing as intentionally killing them. Whether they tried and intended to kill your family member is for the criminal court to decide. Our job is to hold the negligent party responsible through civil litigation.

The purpose of your claim is to seek monetary compensation for the damages you have suffered. This case will remain independent of any criminal charges the negligent party might be charged with.

Who Is Allowed to File a Wrongful Death Suit in Florida

To keep everyone from trying to file their own wrongful death suit, the state only allows a wrongful death suit to be filed by the personal representative of the deceased. If there is a personal representative their name will be in the last will and testament which will be read aloud in probate court. If no one is named or there is no will the decision will be made by the court, the court will also decide who is able to receive the compensation from the claim.

Although the wrongful death suit can only be filed by the personal representative, any family members who expect to receive any part of the compensation from the claim must have their name listed on the lawsuit. These are some of the survivors who might be eligible to receive compensation.

• Parents of deceased
• Children of the deceased
• Surviving spouse
• The estate of the deceased
• Any survivor who can prove that they were dependent on the deceased

Quantifying the Value of Life

There is no way to put a value on the loss of life. No amount of compensation can replace them, bring them back, or amend the loss you have suffered. The courts in Florida have ruled favorably on the following types of compensation in the past.

• Loss of companionship –This is generally the companionship of a spouse or significant other but it can include the loss of parental companionship.
• Loss of instruction and guidance – This is often awarded for the loss of a parent.
• Loss of support and services –This can be awarded for the loss of a parent or caretaker.
• Mental anguish
• Lost income and benefits –This would be awarded when children have lost a parent or caretaker.
• Funeral costs and burial expenses –This can be awarded to any survivors.
• Medical support services before death – This can include ambulance bills, medical care bills, life support costs, etc.

A Wrongful Death Lawyer in Cocoa Works on Your Behalf

The loss of a family member or loved one is a difficult time. There will be plans to make and family members to console. It is not the time to be investigating and collecting evidence. 

When you hire Andrew Pickett as your Cocoa wrongful death attorney, you will receive the support you need in such a difficult situation. Once we have discussed the terms of the contingency agreement our team can get right to work proving your compensation claim. We allow you time to grieve while we are hard at work on your claim.

You Know Exactly Where Your Claim Stands

While we are working to progress your claim, we make sure that you know about all developments. We can provide regular updates so that you know exactly how things are going. When you know how things are progressing and that we are on the same page, you can feel confident taking time to be with your family. 

A Wrongful Death Attorney Will Seek Compensation on Your Behalf

Take time to heal with your family with confidence that your case is being handled with the utmost care. Contact us today for your free wrongful death case consultation and get the legal guidance that you have been looking for. 

Meet Andrew Pickett

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Dara Lynn

Ashley Johnson isprofessional, efficient and kind recommend she and Pickett Law!

Stacey Sprinkle

Jessie Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse build strong relationships with their clients which is a cornerstone of a successful attorney. Their effective communication skills are paramount in this regard. They are responsive providing not only legal advice but also emotional support and guidance. Highly recommend the two for all personal injury claims. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Jason Hicks

As a fellow attorney I send auto accident client referrals to Andrew Pickett Law and to no one else. They have great attorneys on staff who are knowledgeable, trustworthy, and have trial experience. Unlike massive firms that advertise a ton on tv, but may treat the client like a forgotten number, Andrew Pickett Law provides personal attention to each case. I highly recommend.

Response from the owner: What a great review, Jason! We greatly appreciate the trust you place in our firm.

Greg Guiles

I had an excellent experience with Andrew Pickett Law and especially with their paralegal, Lindsey Pike for my personal injury case. Lindsey was incredibly informative and took the time to thoroughly explain the litigation process to me, which made navigating everything so much easier. She was patient, responsive, and always made sure I felt supported throughout the case. I truly appreciated her guidance and professionalism. I would highly recommend Andrew Pickett Law anyone seeking legal assistance.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Greg! We appreciate the kind words.

Eric Edgerton

Lindsey Pike is AMAZING!!!

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Susan Begley

I have know Linsey Pike for several years and she has been such a strong support. She listens, she is access quickly and accurately and she has has a strong knowledge base. When she doesn’t have an answer she finds one. With integrity, kindness, and vigor, she pursues justice. ,

Response from the owner: What a great review! Thank you, Susan!

Sherry Boswell

Response from the owner: Sherry, thank you for the 5-star review!

Debra Graham

Response from the owner: We really appreciate the 5-star review, Debra!

Brandon Delossantos

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steve alukonis

Andrew Pickett Law firm is the best. He has a great group of attorneys and paralegals who go above and beyond for there clients. I have personally worked with Tiffany Whitehouse and she is what they call perfection! I like that she stays in contact with the client and answers every question to the best of her ability and if she doesn’t know, she finds out the answer and gets right back to you. She is definitely an asset to this law firm. All around, great law firm and would definitely recommend them.

Response from the owner: Steve, your kind words are very much appreciated!

Hailey Tongue

This law firm is the best! Tiffany Whitehouse is absolutely amazing!! My dad was involved in a very bad car accident and from the beginning of the process, Tiffany has been top notch! She has kept in contact the entire process keeping us informed of everything that she is doing along the way! She even went to visit my dad in the rehab facility! She is absolutely amazing and I can’t thank her and the entire team at Andy Pickett law!!

Response from the owner: Hailey, thank you for your trust in our firm!

amber rutgerson

My experience with Pickett’s Litigation Paralegal, Lindsey Pike was top notch!! She remained calm, organized and had all the answers to every question I had!! Thank you Lindsey!!!

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Lindsey Pike

Phenomenal law firm! They care about their clients and their results!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Lindsey!! We appreciate the kind words.

Alan Woolwich

My recent experiences with the Andrew Pickett Law firm where top flight in handling my automobile accident where I was hit from behind by a under-insured driver and received related injuries and vehicle damage. Attorney Jessica Hicks and the entire Pickett Law team in Melbourne, FL did an excellent job from the first consultation call to the final settlement results with very favorable outcomes in restoring my health, property and compensation. The team provided excellent and timely coordination, guidance, preparation and advice throughout legal process with a balanced application of phone calls, texts and emails and were always available, responsive, professional and friendly. The coordination and negotiations with my multiple medical providers and insurer by Attorney Jessica Hicks was impressive and impactful. If you are involved in an accident in Brevard County Andrew Pickett Law and team will deliver results and I would recommend they be your first consultation call.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind review, Alan!

Maria Mendelson

I highly recommend Andrew Pickett and his team. They handled my accident case with professionalism, knowledge, and care. They were always available to answer my questions and kept me informed throughout the entire process. Their dedication and expertise made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. I’m very grateful for their support and the positive outcome they achieved for me.

Response from the owner: It was a pleasure to represent you, Maria! Thanks for taking the time to write a nice 5-star review.

Meredith Sand

I had a great experience working with Jessica Hicks. Professional, efficient and very knowledgeable. Great results, would highly recommend.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind words, Meredith!

Joshua Cason

I had an outstanding experience with Pickett Law. Attorney Jessica Hicks and the Pickett Law team did an incredible job on my trip and fall case. From the first phone call with Jessica and Andrew Picket, I knew I was in good hands. Jessica Hicks is an incredible advocate, she is prepared thorough, and will go the extra mile. The entire staff truly care about their clients, they are so knowledgable and answered any questions I had throughout the case. I am so blessed to have the best team represent me. Thank you: Jessica Hicks, Jeremie, Tina, Kimberly, Vonda, Jenny, Andrew, and the entire Pickett Law Team!!

Response from the owner: Josh, what a great review! Thanks for trusting us to assist you with your case. Please let us know if we can ever be of service in the future.

Victoria Wasinger

Jessica Hicks is an outstanding attorney. She is extremely knowledgeable, effective in the courtroom and made me feel at ease. You’re in good hands with Jessica and this law firm.

Response from the owner: What a great review, Victoria! Thank you!

Matthew Wasinger

Jessica Hicks is my go to for anything Personal Injury related. She is organized, well prepared, attentive to her client's needs, and she is not afraid to take a case to trial. If you want an attorney that will fight for you and protect your legal rights, she is the best there is.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Matthew!

David Z

I’m not sure I’d still be here today without Jessica Hicks. Thank you Andrew Pickett Law!

Response from the owner: Thanks, David! We appreciate your kind words.

Malaina Brow

i highly recommend JESSICA HICKS she is and outstanding attorney and has done wonders for my case, i can't thank her enough for all her hard work and dedication. she has put in the time to help me, very caring and gets the job done million stars...

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind words, Malaina!

Mandy Brown

I would highly recommend Jessica Hicks as a great attorney. She walked me through everything with a piece of mind and made me feel at ease. Very compassionate and excellent communication. Helping me understand step by step what was happening with my situation. Very grateful for her

Response from the owner: Glad we could help, Mandy! Thanks for trusting us.

Jason Bucci

"I cannot recommend Andrew Pickett Law highly enough! After my car accident, I was overwhelmed w/ medical bills, insurance calls, and tons of stress. From the moment I reached out to them; their team treated me with care, professionalism, and respect. They explained every step of the legal process in clear terms, kept me informed, and fought tirelessly to settle my case.Their expertise and attention to detail were apparent throughout the case, and they truly made me feel like a priority. Thanks to their hard work, I was able to focus on my recovery while they handled the legal issues. If you're looking for a knowledgeable, compassionate, and dedicated legal team I strongly recommend Andrew Pickett Law.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Jason!

Fallon Klenotich

I had an amazing experience with Andrew Pickett Law. I was always receiving calls, messages and emails with any updates to the case or questions they had for me. Their availability to answer my calls and questions was flexible and respectful. I would highly suggest this law firm for any person who has experienced injury from an automobile accident and is seeking further assistance legally. This office makes sure you are informed and well taken care of.

Response from the owner: Fallon, thank you! I am happy we were able to meet your expectations.

Dayna Rivera

Andrew Pickett Law and their team of attorneys are exceptional. Mr. Pickett is knowledgeable, courteous, and dedicated. A consummate professional. As an attorney, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside Ms. Hicks and Ms. Whitehouse and their trial experience and negotiation skills are outstanding. What an amazing team!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Dayna! What a great review.

Daniel Thillet

It's hands down one of the best personal injury firms I’ve ever seen! I referred my brother to this firm, and he continues to tell me how communicative and diligent Jessica Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse are in getting him the best outcome!

Response from the owner: Thanks, Daniel! We appreciate you.

Taylor McDermid

Review for Jessica Hicks and Tiffany WhitehouseJessica Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse are exceptional personal injury attorneys who truly stand out for their attention to detail and genuine care for their clients. From the very beginning, they go above and beyond to ensure every aspect of your case is meticulously handled. They take the time to understand your unique circumstances, patiently answer all your questions, and keep you informed throughout the process.What sets them apart is their heartfelt dedication to their clients. You can tell that they genuinely care—not just about winning cases, but about helping people rebuild their lives after difficult situations. Jessica and Tiffany are compassionate, responsive, and fiercely advocate for the best possible outcome.If you’re looking for attorneys who combine legal expertise with a personal touch, Jessica Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse are the team you want on your side. Highly recommended!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Taylor!

Frankie Vitiello

I cannot say enough positive things about Andrew Pickett Law and their incredible team of attorneys. Jessica Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse bring an exceptional level of professionalism, skill, and care to every case they handle. Jessica’s extensive trial experience is evident in her strategic approach and dedication to achieving justice, while Tiffany’s unique combination of legal expertise and medical knowledge provides invaluable insight for personal injury cases.What truly distinguishes this firm is its unwavering commitment to justice and client care. From the first consultation, you are met with clear communication, thoughtful strategy, and a team that treats your case with the gravity and diligence it deserves. If you are seeking tireless advocates who blend compassion with formidable expertise, Andrew Pickett Law is the firm to trust.

Response from the owner: Thanks, Frankie! We appreciate you!

Zak Kolo

Tiffany Whitehouse & Jessica Hicks are some of the most talented and driven individuals you will ever have the pleasure of working with. Their professionalism and kindness goes beyond and is a weight off your shoulders.

Response from the owner: Thanks, Zak!

Jordan Kolodziejczak

Tiffany Whitehouse and Jessica Hicks are AMAZING attorneys who have dedicated their careers to helping people in need. There work at Pickett is a shining example of this the way they fight for their clients (even getting better results than some of the bigger firms in the area)

Response from the owner: Thanks, Jordan! We appreciate your kind words and support!

Tierra Johnson

10000000/10 Very professional and very respectful. My case moved very quickly and Vonda, Tina and Tiffany kept me in the loop with every step of the process. I am more than pleased with the outcome and would recommend Pickett Law to ALL my family, friends and acquaintances. Thank you !!!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Tierra! We are honored by your trust in us.

Rebecca Collura

If you are reading this you may have been in a car accident which I am sure has disrupted your life as it did mine. Dealing with your insurance company will be impossible and their goal is to give you the least amount of money possible regardless of your injuries. It is a slow process and you have to be patient. Andrew Pickett will work extremely hard to get you enough money to take care of past and potential future expenses. He is extremely good at what he does and his support staff are attentive and responsive as well. Personally I wouldn't be a number at one of those big firms that advertise on TV. Andrew was completely involved in my case and took great care of me. Stay strong, I pray the pain will lessen for you, and let Andrew fight for you!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Rebecca! What a thoughtful review. It was an honor to represent you.

Sandra Musgrave

The entire team is amazing. Andrew and his team worked hard to get the best outcome for our case. I am very happy with our decisions to hire him after our accident.

Response from the owner: Thank you for trusting us, Sandra! It was an honor to represent you and your family.

Joseph Grant

Andrew and his team were professional and helped me through every step of the way. They made sure I was comfortable and understood the entire process. I would strongly recommend them to anyone!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Joe! I’m happy that we were able to reach a favorable resolution.

Ashley Severance

Mr. Pickett is a fantastic personal injury attorney who has represented several of my own clients in various injury matters. He has obtained very favorable results for my clients. He is responsive, attentive, and detail oriented. I highly recommend his services.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5-star review, Ashley! We are honored to receive referrals from you.

Kimberly Marconi

I worked with Jessica Hicks after I was hit by another driver. She worked diligently, professionally, and exhaustively on my case which resulted in compensation. Jessica Hicks is by far one of the most caring, qualified, and knowledgeable lawyers in Brevard County and the state of Florida. I highly recommend Jessica for her skill, expertise, and exemplary service. You will not be disappointed in choosing her as your lawyer. Thank you, Jessica.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind review, Kimberly! I am pleased we were able to reach a resolution.

Melissa Williamson

Amazing law firm. Highly recommend.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Melissa!

Karen Garach

I had the privilege of working with Andrew Pickett and his staff at Andrew Pickett Law for my personal injury case, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the outcome. From our first meeting, he displayed a genuine concern for my well-being and a deep understanding of the legal complexities involved.Mr. Pickett was always available to answer my questions and provided clear guidance throughout the process. He fought tirelessly on my behalf, ensuring that I received the compensation I deserved.The level of professionalism and dedication was truly outstanding. I highly recommend Andrew Pickett Law to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. Thank you for your exceptional service!

Response from the owner: Karen, what a wonderful review! We appreciate your kind words.

Stefani Tennyson

Hands down best attorney in town. Andrew takes his time with you through the entire process and keeps you informed. If you are looking for a local attorney that you can trust, Andrew Picket Law is for you.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Stefani!

Vinnie Taranto

Andrew is an amazing attorney that truly cares about his clients.

Response from the owner: Vinnie, I appreciate your kind words. Thank you!

Angela Roth

I had an excellent experience with Andrew Pickett and their team. From the initial consultation to the final settlement, they were professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate. They truly worked hard to get a favorable outcome. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of a skilled accident attorney. Thank you for your outstanding service!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Angela!

Raymond Miley

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5 star review, Raymond.

linda williams

I had the best experience working with Pickett Law. They are all very knowledgeable about the law. We personally worked with Atty Tiffany Whitehouse and her team of Tina Johnson and Vonda Vassar, they knew how to get us the most money that we were entitled to from a car accident. I don’t know what we would have done without their help. If you are ever looking for an atty, we highly recommend this office.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the great review, Linda! And thank you for your trust in our law firm. If we can ever assist you or any friends or family in the future, please let us know.

Shaun Peiffer

I had an excellent experience with Andrew Pickett Law firm. From start to finish, the team was incredibly responsive and attentive to my needs. Jessica was outstanding in patiently answering all my questions, making sure I fully understood each step of the process. I also want to thank Vonda for taking the time at the beginning of my case to walk me through everything, providing clarity and peace of mind. In the end, I was more than happy with the successful settlement outcome. I highly recommend Andrew Pickett Law firm for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation.

Response from the owner: Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Shaun! It was an honor to represent you. We are grateful for the trust you placed in us. If we can ever be of assistance to you or your friends or family in the future, please let us know.

Belinda Darnell

I had the privilege of working with Attorney Jessica Hicks alongside Attorney Andrew Pickett during my personal injury case, and their exceptional representation made all the difference. From the very beginning, they were attentive, compassionate, and highly engaged with every detail of my case. Attorney Jessica Hicks, in particular, formed a great personal connection with me, truly understanding the pain and challenges I faced after my accident.Their communication was outstanding, keeping me informed at every step through phone calls, office visits, text messages, and their office app. Attorney Jessica Hicks’ dedication and persistence led to securing the full allowable settlement amount without the need to go to court, which was an immense relief.I cannot recommend Attorney Jessica Hicks and Attorney Andrew Pickett highly enough. Their knowledge, support, and commitment are of the highest caliber. Jessica, in particular, is a determined and relentless advocate, ensuring that I was fully supported and heard throughout the process. If you're looking for attorneys who will truly fight for you, Jessica Hicks and Andrew Pickett Law are the ones to choose.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the great and thoughtful review, Belinda! It was a pleasure to represent you, and we are happy that you are satisfied with our efforts.

Jen Gonzo

ANDREW PICKETT LAW represented me in my case and they were professional all the way through. I am so grateful for what they were able to do for me. Big kudos to my attorney Jessica Hicks. 👏

Response from the owner: Thank you, Jennifer! Great review. So happy that we were able to resolve your case favorably!

Ken Williams

Andrew Pickett and his staff worked extremely hard to resolve my case I am extremely happy that I went with them and will use them in the future most definitely they kept me well informed and The professionalism I experienced wasunmatched.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Ken! It was a pleasure to represent you and get to know you.

Valeta Cameron

Exceptional attorney! Highly recommended for any of your personal injury needs.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Valeta!

Rose Hudson

Andrew and his team were incredibly knowledgeable and showed empathy and compassion to me throughout the entire process. My questions were always answered, even after the case closed. I continue to follow Andrew Pickett on various social media outlets as he regularly creates relevant and informative content. I highly recommend Andrew Pickett.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Rose! We really appreciate your kind words and your friendship. Please let us know if we can ever be of assistance in the future.

Marquisha Mansfield

Very helpful great status wonderful work

Response from the owner: Thank you for trusting us to help you with your case, Marquisha.