Maintaining a wrongful death claim can be very difficult, given the strict deadlines for filing a wrongful death suit, wrongful death laws that vary from state to state, and consideration of often complex medical records related to the death of a loved one. As a result, it is always advisable to consult an attorney in order to determine whether you have a potentially successful wrongful death claim under your state's law, and the type of evidence that you must gather in order to prove your case. An attorney who is experienced in handling wrongful death cases will be able to tell you if your situation meets the requirements under your state's laws to file a wrongful death lawsuit, the relative chance of maintaining a successful claim, as well as the range of potential damages to which you and your family might be entitled. An attorney can also assist you in interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records and police reports, and otherwise examining evidence in preparation for making a wrongful death claim.