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by The Stoddard Firm - February 17th, 2021
The rapper known as Silento, given name Ricky Hawk, has been arrested and charged with the murder of his cousin, Frederick Rooks.
Rooks was found early the morning of January 21st lying on the pavement of Deep Shoals Circle in DeKalb County, dead from multiple gunshot wounds to the face and leg. Neighbors heard the shots at around 3:30am, and security cameras captured portions of the incident. Neither Rooks nor Hawk lived on Deep Shoals Circle, but residents of a nearby home were familiar with Rooks.
Call 470-467-2200 for a free consultation.Speak with an Atlanta wrongful death lawyer today.
Though police have not publicly speculated on a potential motive for Rooks’ murder, Hawk has previously been arrested on domestic violence and gun-related charges. A woman identifying herself as Hawk’s publicist noted that Hawk has long struggled with mental illness.
Little information has been released about Rooks’ personal life and family, but his next of kin have definite grounds for a wrongful death suit should they choose to pursue one. A civil suit would be separate from the criminal proceedings that are already underway against Hawk, and its purpose would be to compensate the family — something criminal law does not do.
Causing someone harm by shooting them is negligent, just as causing them harm by selling a defective product is. The reason people often choose not to sue violent perpetrators is that, unlike major companies, private citizens usually can’t afford to pay for a worthwhile settlement.
Hawk, however, has been wildly and consistently successful since releasing his breakout video, “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae),” while still in high school. His current net worth is estimated to be between $1.5 and $6 million. If he is indeed found to be Rooks’ killer, he can certainly afford to pay for the pain and expense Rooks’ death has caused his immediate family.
Call 470-467-2200 to speak with The Stoddard Firm.Atlanta wrongful death lawyer near you.
When someone dies because of someone else’s negligence, Georgia law specifies which family members can file wrongful death suits.
Surviving spouses and children get first priority. If the deceased has no living spouse or children, surviving parents have the option to sue instead. If there are no surviving parents either, the executor of the estate may file suit, but in that case, the settlement becomes part of the estate, to be distributed as any other assets would be.
The Stoddard Firm, Atlanta wrongful death lawyers, are experienced in all aspects of wrongful death law and can help surviving family members make the true scope of their loss understood in court, so that they receive the full compensation they’re owed.
If you are Frederick Rooks’ next of kin, or if you have lost someone in a similar act of violence, The Stoddard Firm is standing by to offer you a free consultation on your options.
A dedicated, ethical advocate who spent years defending major corporations in serious injury and wrongful death cases before switching sides to fight for families who have lost someone. Known for high-profile wrongful death trials featured on Courtroom View Network, he is also a sought-after legal educator, teaching at seminars for top bar associations. Trusted by clients and media alike, he works tirelessly to pursue accountability and deliver results for families facing catastrophic loss.
Member of the Atlanta Bar Association, the Georgia Bar Association, and the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association
Licensed in Georgia since: 2008
Education: University of Georgia School of Law
Personal injury compensation enables an injured individual to regain the same quality of life they had before the incident. This may entail funds for modifying a home for wheelchair accessibility or offering vocational training for those unable to return to their previous job. It is crucial for compensation to cover lost earnings and cover both past and anticipated medical costs.
We conduct interviews with colleagues, consult with attending healthcare professionals, and engage specialists to ensure we secure comprehensive compensation that aids our clients in re-establishing their life trajectories.
When deciding to hire an Atlanta personal injury lawyer, you need to consider:
1. Who’s at Fault
If you’re in an accident and it’s unclear who’s responsible, seeking advice from an attorney is wise. Insurance companies may attempt to attribute damages to you in such scenarios. An attorney can shield you from counterclaims and cross-claims, safeguarding your rights.
2. The Severity of Injuries Sustained
When facing a lifetime of pain, suffering, and mounting bills, taking chances is not an option. A personal injury attorney is entrusted with averting lifelong financial strain.
3. If You’re Facing Insurance Company Denial or Delay
The intricate laws and procedures surrounding personal injury claims are areas where insurance companies capitalize on individuals’ lack of expertise. A lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in this regard.
It’s possible but not necessarily probable and will likely depend on whether you want your case to go to trial. The majority of cases end in a settlement. Going to trial typically occurs when there are intricate, contentious matters regarding the accident’s cause or the severity of your injuries. Occasionally, defendants may simply be unyielding and unwilling to settle or you may just want more than the insurer believes is reasonable.
It shouldn’t be a shock if your attorney diligently pursues a settlement while also readying your witnesses for trial. A proficient lawyer must be equipped for any scenario. Demonstrating to the opposing party that we’re gearing up for a trial indicates that we’re resolute and not inclined to back down.
Determining all potential parties who could be held liable for a personal injury involves a thorough investigation of various factors. If someone else neglected to exercise reasonable care, they can be held accountable for the resulting injuries, as outlined in Title 51 of Georgia Code of Laws or as outlined in Georgia’s common law.
The individual directly involved in the accident may not be the sole party at fault. For instance, in the case of a drunk driving accident, while the driver may bear responsibility, the person who knowingly provided additional alcohol to an obviously intoxicated individual could also be deemed liable. In other circumstances, an at fault party’s employer is responsible for its employees actions.
Following a personal injury accident, there are critical steps you should take. First and foremost, seek prompt medical attention. Visit the emergency room or call for an ambulance at the accident site. Any delay in receiving medical care could impact your health and the outcome of your personal injury case.
Refrain from discussing your case with the insurance company representing the at-fault party. They may deny your settlement or offer a significantly lower amount than you deserve.
Additionally, it’s crucial for both you and your personal injury attorney to gather as much evidence and documentation as possible. This is vital in establishing that your injuries resulted from someone else’s negligence. Make an effort to collect records and documents related to your case, including medical records, police reports, photographs, witness contact information, and similar items. Once you’ve received medical attention, contact The Stoddard Firm.
Do not say anything! If an insurance company contacts you, refrain from providing any information until you have consulted with your attorney. Insurance companies typically contact accident victims in an attempt to elicit a statement about the incident, which they may use to devalue the settlement.
While you may eventually need to converse with them, seeking guidance from a seasoned legal team is crucial. They will provide clear instructions on what you should and should not disclose to protect the value of your case.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was revised and approved by Attorney Matthew B. Stoddard, who has more than 16 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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