Refuse to Let Them Walk Away Clean

In the United States, preventable deaths from negligent or accidental causes are alarmingly common. In 2023, more than 222,000 Americans died from unintentional injuries, including car crashes, falls, and poisonings, making accidents one of the leading causes of death nationwide. Motor vehicle traffic deaths alone accounted for over 43,000 fatalities that year.

Under South Carolina law, a wrongful death occurs when someone’s life is cut short because of another party’s wrongful act, neglect, or default, the kind of harm that would have supported a personal injury lawsuit had the victim survived. A wrongful death attorney in Charleston steps in to pursue compensation on behalf of surviving family members, including financial support for losses like funeral costs, lost income, and the irreplaceable loss of companionship.

older man holding his chin

Common Reasons for Wrongful Death

When negligence turns fatal, there’s almost always a preventable decision at the center of it. Wrongful death cases stem from reckless behavior, ignored safety rules, or profit-driven shortcuts that put lives at risk. Some of the most common causes we see include:

  • Drunk or impaired driving
  • Distracted driving, including texting behind the wheel
  • Speeding and aggressive driving behavior
  • Trucking violations and fatigued commercial drivers
  • Dangerous or defective products
  • Unsafe property conditions and premises negligence
  • Medical errors and fatal malpractice
  • Workplace and construction site failures
  • Criminal acts enabled by negligent security

Why Choose Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm for Wrongful Death?

You don’t need a firm that plays it safe. You need one that steps in immediately, takes control, and applies pressure where it counts. At Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm, we handle wrongful death cases with urgency, from securing key evidence early to shutting down insurance tactics aimed at minimizing the loss. We understand that this isn’t just about compensation. It’s about accountability for a life taken and stability for the family left behind.

Gus Anastopoulo built this firm from the ground up by outworking opponents and refusing to follow the old playbook. That edge drives every wrongful death case we take on. When you hire a wrongful death lawyer in Charleston who’s always on the offense, the defense knows delays won’t work, low offers won’t stick, and trial is always on the table.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Wrongful Death?

Wrongful death cases are rarely as simple as a single bad decision by a single person. Determining liability requires a deep, aggressive investigation into who caused the fatal harm, who allowed it to happen, and who tried to look the other way. We analyze every detail, from police reports and crash data to corporate policies, safety records, and prior violations, to identify all parties whose negligence contributed to the loss. Depending on the circumstances, liability in a wrongful death case may fall on:

  • Negligent or reckless drivers
  • Commercial truck drivers and trucking companies
  • Employers and contractors
  • Bars, restaurants, and alcohol providers
  • Property owners and managers
  • Product manufacturers and distributors
  • Medical providers and healthcare facilities
  • Corporations that ignored safety regulations
  • Government entities responsible for unsafe roadways or conditions
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What Are the Types of Compensation Available for Wrongful Death?

When a life is taken because of negligence, South Carolina law allows families to pursue compensation that reflects the full scope of the loss: financially, emotionally, and personally. These cases aren’t limited to immediate expenses. They account for the long-term impact a death has on a family’s stability, future, and life. In South Carolina, compensation is typically pursued through two distinct but connected claims: wrongful death and survival actions.

Wrongful Death

A wrongful death claim focuses on the losses suffered by surviving family members. It is meant to account for the real-world consequences of losing a spouse, parent, or child and the role they played in your life and household. Compensation in a wrongful death claim may include:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Loss of financial support and future income
  • Loss of companionship, care, and emotional support
  • Loss of consortium for a surviving spouse
  • Loss of guidance, training, and nurturing for children
  • Loss of household services and contributions
  • Exemplary damages in cases involving reckless or willful conduct

Survival Actions

A survival action is brought on behalf of the estate and reflects the harm suffered by your loved one between the time of injury and death. This claim ensures that the responsible party answers for what the victim personally endured. Compensation in a survival action may include:

  • Medical expenses incurred before death
  • Conscious pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress experienced prior to passing

Steps to Take Immediately After a Wrongful Death

After a sudden loss, the days that follow can feel overwhelming. While nothing can make this easier, taking the right steps early can protect your family’s rights and prevent the responsible party from controlling the narrative or shifting blame onto the victim.

If a wrongful death has occurred, consider the following actions as soon as possible:

  • Seek emotional and practical support from trusted family members
  • Preserve evidence related to the incident, including records and communications
  • Obtain copies of medical records, reports, and the death certificate
  • Avoid recorded statements or early settlement offers from insurers
  • Identify the executor or administrator of the estate
  • Document financial losses and household impacts
  • Consult a wrongful death attorney in Charleston

Why Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer in Charleston

Wrongful death cases move fast, and insurance companies count on families being too overwhelmed to act. Hiring a Charleston wrongful death attorney levels the field immediately because they know how to preserve evidence, calculate the full value of what was taken, and shut down tactics that minimize your claim. When you work with a wrongful death attorney in Charleston who’s always on the offense, like the team at Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm, you protect your family’s rights, apply real pressure, and ensure accountability.

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Client Testimonials

"Working with this law firm was an absolute breeze. They run their business efficiently, communicate clearly, and make every step quick and easy. The team is professional, reliable...

"Working with this law firm was an absolute breeze. They run their business efficiently, communicate clearly, and make every step quick and easy. The team is professional, reliable, and genuinely focused on helping their clients. I definitely recommend them to anyone looking for a smooth and stress-free legal experience."

—Tyana Canty

Gus Law Firm did an outstanding job handling my case! Jotavia was amazing; she went above and beyond to make sure everything was taken care of and kept me informed every step of th...

Gus Law Firm did an outstanding job handling my case! Jotavia was amazing; she went above and beyond to make sure everything was taken care of and kept me informed every step of the way. I truly appreciate her dedication and professionalism. Highly recommended!

—SaNya Grant Paul

Gus and his team kept me informed every step of the way. They truly take the time to understand your case and what you’re going through. Every team member was professional an...

Gus and his team kept me informed every step of the way. They truly take the time to understand your case and what you’re going through. Every team member was professional and responsive, and made the process simple and stress-free. If you’re looking for a personal injury law firm in Charleston that actually listens and delivers results, this is the one.

—Rebecca Gates

Gus and his team were excellent. My family was affected by a horrible accident, and his firm stood beside me every step of the way. He and his team went above and beyond expectatio...

Gus and his team were excellent. My family was affected by a horrible accident, and his firm stood beside me every step of the way. He and his team went above and beyond expectations. He and his team were very supportive and sympathetic to what this accident did to me and my family. He fought for me till the end, which was a successful end. I would strongly recommend him and his team for your needs.

—Kathy

My experience was a good one. Everyone was kind and professional, and they handled my case in a timely manner. A great team, and I thank everyone! Highly recommended.

—DN

It was truly an honor for your law firm to represent me in this case. I will be forever grateful to your team for all the hard work they did for me. Thanks and happy holidays!...

It was truly an honor for your law firm to represent me in this case. I will be forever grateful to your team for all the hard work they did for me. Thanks and happy holidays!

—Shawn Davis

I’ve gotten such a good impression of Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm from Jotavia Myers. She’s kind, helpful, and genuine, and it’s easy to see she represents the firm ...

I’ve gotten such a good impression of Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm from Jotavia Myers. She’s kind, helpful, and genuine, and it’s easy to see she represents the firm with real care and professionalism.

—Deanna Marie

Gus and the entire team were so efficient and professional! I appreciate every effort! They absolutely know what they are doing, and I’m so glad they were representing me! Hi...

Gus and the entire team were so efficient and professional! I appreciate every effort! They absolutely know what they are doing, and I’m so glad they were representing me! Highly recommend to all!

—Pam Toledano

Jo has truly done an amazing job helping me with my case to the fullest extent and has made certain that I understand every aspect of my case. She was truly committed to ensuring t...

Jo has truly done an amazing job helping me with my case to the fullest extent and has made certain that I understand every aspect of my case. She was truly committed to ensuring that her job was done to the fullest. Thank you.

—Jason Williams

This was by far the best experience I had with a law firm! Jotavia was amazing! They handled everything for me, making it seamless. I was out of the country, and they helped me so ...

This was by far the best experience I had with a law firm! Jotavia was amazing! They handled everything for me, making it seamless. I was out of the country, and they helped me so much, and I didn’t have to worry about anything! JP Walker & Jotavia, you guys are chef’s kiss!

—Kia Major

I was recently injured in a serious car accident and didn’t know where to turn. After researching personal injury law firms near me, I found Gus's law firm, and I’m so ...

I was recently injured in a serious car accident and didn’t know where to turn. After researching personal injury law firms near me, I found Gus's law firm, and I’m so grateful I did. From the very first consultation, their team was professional, compassionate, and incredibly knowledgeable about car accident and injury law.

My attorney walked me through every step of the process—from dealing with the insurance company to securing top-notch medical care. They fought hard to get me the maximum compensation for my injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering. What stood out most was how responsive and dedicated they were—I always felt heard and supported.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident and need a personal injury lawyer who truly cares and delivers results, I highly recommend Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm. They turned a stressful situation into a manageable one and helped me get the justice I deserved.

—Michael

The lawyers at Gus’s are AMAZING! They went above & beyond for us. My fiancé and I were in a car accident in February, which left us without that car. By the grace...

The lawyers at Gus’s are AMAZING!

They went above & beyond for us. My fiancé and I were in a car accident in February, which left us without that car. By the grace of God, we were not injured and therefore had no medical bills, however deeply distressed. I had to quit my job, which I loved dearly, due to this accident. We called other law firms, and no one would take our case due to the lack of medical bills. When we called Gus, we got a lawyer who took our case right away and was able to win us $30,000 for emotional distress. I couldn’t be more thankful for this law firm fighting for us.

I could not recommend anyone better to fight for you!

—Carly McGee

Gus Anastopoulo and his firm were EXTREMELY AMAZING. From start to finish, this law firm was very helpful, professional, and knowledgeable. They assist me step by step, making sure...

Gus Anastopoulo and his firm were EXTREMELY AMAZING.

From start to finish, this law firm was very helpful, professional, and knowledgeable. They assist me step by step, making sure I understand everything. They made me feel at ease. I was so relaxed and comfortable once talking to him and his assistant. I had nothing to worry about. Everything was taken care of by his firm.

Mr. Gus will go above and beyond for his clients, and that’s what I loved about him during my case. His compassion for his firm and clients makes you feel secure and confident. He will not settle for anything. He will make sure you get what you deserve.

I will utilize Gus Law firm for any legal justification.

Thank you, Mr. Anastopoulo and your firm!

—Tamika Moore

I was very pleased with Gus representing me for something that happened suddenly. It was definitely a situation that had me stressed and not knowing what to do, but they were there...

I was very pleased with Gus representing me for something that happened suddenly. It was definitely a situation that had me stressed and not knowing what to do, but they were there for me every step of the way. Very happy with the outcome and would definitely highly recommend. Thank you for all the help!

—Tiffany Bredenkamp

I wish I could give this firm a 10-star review! They are extremely responsive, maintain great communication, and care about their clients! The attorneys here not only fight for you...

I wish I could give this firm a 10-star review! They are extremely responsive, maintain great communication, and care about their clients! The attorneys here not only fight for you, but they also listen to your needs. Jotavia is always willing to share knowledge with you and listen. I would recommend anyone to call Gus!

—Ricardo Prizzie

They took care of all my problems. JP was amazing, very transparent with all the cost upfront and fought hard for my case to go through and win.

— Jovanny Castano

I'm very pleased with Gus and his representation. He definitely dotted all the I's and crossed all T's in my case. He's very kind and Hannah is the sweetest assistant as well. I wo...

I'm very pleased with Gus and his representation. He definitely dotted all the I's and crossed all T's in my case. He's very kind and Hannah is the sweetest assistant as well. I would highly recommend his law firm to anyone seeking representation.

—Lora Edwards

Outstanding Car Accident Representation – Highly Recommend! I was recently injured in a serious car accident and didn’t know where to turn. After researching personal i...

Outstanding Car Accident Representation – Highly Recommend!

I was recently injured in a serious car accident and didn’t know where to turn. After researching personal injury law firms near me, I found Gus's law firm, and I’m so grateful I did. From the very first consultation, their team was professional, compassionate, and incredibly knowledgeable about car accident and injury law.

My attorney walked me through every step of the process — from dealing with the insurance company to securing top-notch medical care. They fought hard to get me the maximum compensation for my injuries, lost wages, and pain and suffering. What stood out most was how responsive and dedicated they were — I always felt heard and supported.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident and need a personal injury lawyer who truly cares and delivers results, I highly recommend Gus Anastopoulo Law firm. They turned a stressful situation into a manageable one and helped me get the justice I deserved.

—Michael

Wrongful Death Frequently Asked Questions

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in South Carolina?

Under South Carolina law, wrongful death cases follow a specific structure. While the lawsuit is filed by the estate, the compensation is intended for surviving family members, not the estate itself. The law establishes a clear order for who benefits from any recovery, ensuring a predictable and fair distribution, even when there is no will in place. Wrongful death compensation is distributed in the following order:

  • Surviving spouse and children, who share in the recovery
  • Parents of the deceased, if no spouse or children survive
  • Other legal heirs of the estate, if no spouse, children, or parents remain

How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim?

In most cases, South Carolina imposes a three-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims. The deadline typically begins on the date of death. If the claim involves a government entity, shorter notice deadlines may apply. Waiting too long can permanently bar your claim, which is why speaking with a wrongful death attorney in Charleston early is crucial.

What if the insurance company is already offering a settlement?

Early settlement offers rarely reflect the full value of a life lost. Insurance companies often move quickly after a death to close the case before families understand their rights or the future financial impact. In South Carolina, any wrongful death settlement must be approved by the court, and low offers often do not survive scrutiny. A Charleston wrongful death attorney can evaluate whether an offer is fair or whether pressure needs to be applied.

What’s the difference between a wrongful death claim and a criminal case?

A criminal case is brought by the state and focuses on punishment, such as jail time or fines. A wrongful death claim is a civil action brought by the estate and focuses on securing financial compensation and accountability. Even if no criminal charges are filed or if the defendant is acquitted, a civil claim may still be pursued because the burden of proof is lower.

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