Florida statute defines wrongful death as a death caused by someone else because of “wrongful act, negligence, default, or breach of contract or warranty.” This could be a criminal act or an act of negligence. Either needs the help of a wrongful death lawyer in Palm Bay.

If you live in Palm Bay, Florida, and want help with a wrongful death claim, Andrew Pickett Law is the firm to call. We have experience with wrongful death cases and will do our utmost to bring you justice during this tragic time.

Wrongful Death Cases vs. Criminal Cases

Filing a wrongful death case with the court is not a way to press criminal charges. That is up to the state to decide. What filing one will do is try to get you compensation for your loss. The only award you can get from one is money.

That said, it’s not an either/or situation. You can file a civil lawsuit even though the accused has a criminal case. Evidence from one case can be used in the other once it’s in the public record. This can make it easier to press your claim to compensation.

Your wrongful death attorney in Palm Bay can advise you on the best course of action when there’s a criminal and a civil case involved in your situation. In some circumstances, it may be better to wait until later in a criminal trial before filing a civil case.

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Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

In Florida, only the personal representative of the estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, the representative does this on behalf of the estate and on behalf of survivors, including: 

• Spouses
• Minor children
• Adult children if they have no surviving spouse
• Parents of deceased minor children
• Parents of adult children, if there are no other survivors
• Family relations that were were dependent on the deceased. 

If no personal representative was named in the will or by the court, you’ll need to get one named as soon as possible. This is a matter for probate court. You may need to speak with a probate lawyer to get one named in a timely manner. This is crucial for avoiding the statute of limitations.

Florida law only allows wrongful death lawsuits up to two years from the death. If you go beyond this time, barring cases of murder or manslaughter, you will not be able to file for wrongful death in court.

Types of Damages You Can Claim

When a suit is filed, two groups of people can claim damages. One is the estate, and the other is the survivors. Each is eligible for separate kinds of damages. The estate is allowed to claim, under Florida Statute §768.21:

• Loss of earnings from the deceased from the date of injury to the date of death
• Medical and funeral expenses paid out by or on behalf of the estate
• Loss of wealth that the estate could have reasonably accumulated but couldn’t because of the death. (e.g. lost wages)

Note carefully that damages for the estate start from the time of injury, not the date of death. The survivors, on the other hand, are eligible for these damages:

• Medical and funeral expenses they paid out of pocket
• Loss of consortium
• Lost support and services to survivors
• Pain and suffering

The survivors’ payout is not in a lump sum but will be split by the court when the case is finished. Each survivor will get a separate amount, along with the estate.

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.

Free Case Evaluation

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!!!!"

How Do I Know if I Have a Case?

The big question to ask before filing is does the at-fault party have enough assets or an insurance policy that can cover the damages? This is the unfortunate reality of wrongful death cases. It is hard to sue someone if they have no money to claim.

However, in many wrongful death situations, there will be an insurance policy somewhere. Your wrongful death attorney will study the matter and make every effort to find an avenue where you can get compensation.

Seek a Compassionate Palm Bay Wrongful Death Attorney

We know how hard it can be to face a wrongful death situation. Andrew Pickett Law will do whatever they can to see that you receive financial justice in this matter. Our office serves Palm Bay and all of Brevard County

To get started, call us or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Your consultation is free and without obligation.

Meet Andrew Pickett

Dealing with the murky policies of insurance companies designed to confuse and prevent you from receiving compensation is our expertise.

15+ years experience as a personal injury attorney.

Specialized in battling insurance companies.

95% settlement rate for clients.

Handled 500+ personal injury cases.

Collected more than $38 million for clients.

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Maria Slate

I’m very appreciative of the help and guidance Kim gave me during my time with the firm. Highly recommend!

Response from the owner: Great review, Maria!

Lani L

I recently had the pleasure of working with Andrew Pickett Law and I must say, they exceeded my expectations. From the moment I walked through the door, the staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming. They made me feel at ease and were always ready to answer any questions I had. Jessie Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse were not only knowledgeable but also extremely approachable. They took the time to understand my case and provided clear, concise advice. I never felt rushed or overlooked; they genuinely cared about my situation. They are a team of true professionals who treat their clients with respect and compassion. Thank you!

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

Shannon M

I cannot recommend Andrew Pickett Law enough for anyone in need of personal injury representation. Jessica Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse are absolutely phenomenal attorneys who go above and beyond to ensure their clients feel supported and confident throughout the entire process. Jessica is incredibly compassionate and detail-oriented, always taking the time to thoroughly explain everything and answer questions with patience. Tiffany is equally impressive, bringing unmatched expertise and determination to the table. Together, they form an incredible team that is not only professional but also genuinely caring. If you’re looking for attorneys who will fight tirelessly for your case while treating you like family, look no further. Jessica, Tiffany, and the entire team at Andrew Pickett Law are truly exceptional!

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

Jeanine Marchica

It has been more than reassuring working with Jessica Hicks and Tiffany Whitehouse. They are very knowledgeable and can answer any of my questions or concerns in a way that I can understand. They make me feel comfortable about any concerns or questions I might have. They are prompt at returning and answering phone calls. I really recommend this law firm. If anyone would ask me who to recommend I would recommend this law firm, instead of those gimmicky commercials you see on T.V. They are truly the best and get the job done. They are a pleasure to work with.

Response from the owner: Jeanine, we really appreciate your kind words!

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Lindsey Pike was outstanding in assisting with all my needs, displaying impeccable attention to detail. She’ll be my go-to in the future. This firm is top-notch, and I highly recommend them to anyone in need of a personal injury lawyer.

Response from the owner: Thanks, Ginnie!

Michael Slate

Kim is awesome! Highly recommend.

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Monica Slate

Kim is extremely helpful and knowledgeable in her field. She helped me walk theoigh the legal process with ease.

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

Tina Wyatt

Response from the owner: Thanks for the 5-star review, Tina!

Carol Mangone

A top rate law Firm. Working with Tiffany and she responds to every message within the day. Very professional, top notch and diligent. Excellent to work with.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Carol! We appreciate the nice review.

Amber Hartnett MSW, LCSW-QS, MCAP

Attorney Hicks was thorough realistic and very helpful. Her and her team made sure to help me understand the process every step of the way.

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Al boileau

I recently had an opportunity to have Lindsey Pike assist with a project and she was outstanding. Her attention to detail was always spot on and she will always be my go to person in the future.

Response from the owner: Al, we appreciate your confidence in our firm!

Alex B

I consider Andrew Pickett Law the go to personal injury firm in Brevard County. The lawyers, paralegals and entire staff are great to work with. Especially, paralegal, Lindsey Pike. Can't go wrong with entrusting this firm.

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nicole

Incredible firm. Would recommend them to all of my family and friends should they ever be in need of a personal injury lawyer.Litigation paralegal, Lindsey Pike puts the personal in personal injury.

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Jean Florin

Lindsey Pike is our Niece, whom we love and are so proud of. She is honest, trustworthy, intelligent, and follows through on things she is assigned. She is a quick-thinker and a creative thinker, and is always volunteering to help those in need. We are so happy she is back in the law field that she has always been excited to work in and we are also sure she will meet every challenge head on annd accomplish all her goals!

Response from the owner: Jean, thanks for the great review! We are grateful to have Lindsey on our team.

Dara Lynn

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

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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. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Response from the owner: What a great 5-star review, Stacey!

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

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Debra Graham

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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!!

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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!

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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.