A judge in California has ruled that convicted murderer Scott Peterson will stand trial for the wrongful death lawsuit filed by Dennis Rocha and Sharon Rocha, the parents of his dead wife, Laci Peterson Dennis and Sharon had hoped that Peterson’s conviction was enough to conclude the civil lawsuit, but the Stanislaus County Superior Court Judge Roger Beauchesne ruled otherwise.
Laci Peterson was pregnant when she disappeared from her home on December 24, 2002. In 2005, Scott was convicted to death for the murders of Laci and their unborn son Connor, whose bodies were found in the waters of the East Bay in April 2003.
Laci’s parents are asking for unspecified damages. It is unlikely that Scott would be able to pay a judgment, but Dennis and Sharon want to make sure that their son-in-law never makes a penny if he decides to sell his story. Two made-for-TV programs and several books have already been published about the Peterson murders.
Florida Wrongful Death
In Florida, the immediate family members and heirs of a person killed in an accident or crime that was caused by another person’s negligence, carelessness or reckless actions, can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent party.
Our South Florida wrongful death law firm can investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death and determine whether you have grounds for recovery. Florida wrongful death law allows family members to claim compensation for loss of companionship, love, moral support, financial support, services, and other damages.
In Florida, you have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This is not a lot of time to conduct a thorough investigation of your case, interview key witnesses, gather evidence, and build a case against the negligent party or parties, so it is important that you speak with an experienced Florida wrongful death attorney right away.
Scott Peterson likely faces second trial in wrongful death case, Miami Herald, June 6, 2008
Related Web Resources:
Florida Wrongful Death Statute
Laci Peterson TImeline, CourtTV.com
Contact Halberg & Fogg PLLC today.