What is “Pecuniary Loss” in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

What Does “Pecuniary Loss” Mean in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Quick Answer: In a New York wrongful death lawsuit, “pecuniary loss” refers to the financial damages suffered by surviving family members due to the death of a loved one, including lost income, loss of support, funeral expenses, and the economic value of household services the deceased provided. These losses are calculated based on factors such as the deceased’s age, earning capacity, health, and life expectancy.

Pecuniary Loss in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit: A Deeper Understanding

Understanding What is “Pecuniary Loss” in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit? is essential for families in New York City who have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. In legal terms, “pecuniary loss” refers specifically to the financial or economic damages family members experience as a result of the deceased person’s passing. These losses are tangible, measurable financial impacts directly linked to the wrongful death.

In New York wrongful death lawsuits, pecuniary losses typically include:

• Loss of Income and Financial Support: This includes wages, salaries, bonuses, and other earnings the deceased would have contributed to the family had they lived.
• Loss of Services: The value of household tasks, caregiving, childcare, and other services the deceased provided to family members.
• Medical Expenses: Costs for medical care and treatments the deceased received due to the injury or illness leading to their death.
• Funeral and Burial Costs: Expenses incurred by the family related to funeral arrangements, burial, or cremation services.
• Loss of Inheritance: The financial assets and benefits family members would have reasonably expected to inherit had the deceased lived longer.

It’s important to note that pecuniary losses differ from emotional or psychological losses, such as pain and suffering or loss of companionship, which are not currently compensable under New York wrongful death law. The courts in NYC focus strictly on measurable financial impacts when awarding damages in wrongful death cases.

By clearly understanding what constitutes pecuniary loss, families can better navigate the complexities of wrongful death lawsuits in New York City and seek fair compensation for their financial hardship following the unexpected loss of a loved one.

Types of Pecuniary Losses in New York Wrongful Death Claims

In a wrongful death lawsuit in New York City, “pecuniary losses” refer specifically to financial or economic damages suffered by the surviving family members as a result of their loved one’s death. Understanding these losses is crucial, as it helps families recover the compensation they need to alleviate economic hardship following an unexpected tragedy. Pecuniary losses typically fall into several distinct categories:

• Lost Income and Earnings: Perhaps the most significant pecuniary loss involves the deceased person’s lost wages and future earning potential. This includes salary, wages, bonuses, commissions, and other financial benefits the person would have likely earned if they had lived. For example, if the deceased was the primary breadwinner for a family in Brooklyn, the surviving spouse and children could seek compensation for the income they have lost due to the death.
• Loss of Support and Services: This category covers the monetary value of services the deceased would have provided to their family members. These services can include household chores, childcare, transportation, home maintenance, or caregiving for elderly family members. For instance, if a parent in Queens regularly provided childcare, the surviving parent may now incur additional childcare expenses.
• Medical Expenses: Often, a wrongful death case involves medical costs incurred before the victim passed away. If the deceased required emergency medical treatment or hospitalization, these costs can be claimed as pecuniary losses in the lawsuit.
• Funeral and Burial Expenses: Families in New York City often face high costs associated with funerals, memorial services, cremations, or burials. These expenses can be significant and are eligible to be compensated through a wrongful death claim.
• Loss of Parental Guidance and Nurturing: In cases involving minor children, New York courts recognize the financial value of parental guidance, care, and nurturing. While emotional pain is not considered a pecuniary loss, the tangible impact of losing a parent’s guidance and support can be calculated in economic terms.
• Lost Inheritance: Family members may also recover compensation for the lost value of inheritance they would have reasonably expected if the deceased had lived a full life expectancy.

Assessing and calculating these pecuniary losses accurately requires a thorough understanding of the deceased person’s life, income, and role within the family. Experienced wrongful death attorneys, in collaboration with economic and financial specialists, help families quantify these losses clearly and convincingly to the court.

If you have questions about pecuniary losses in a wrongful death lawsuit in NYC, please contact The Orlow Firm today at (646) 647-3398. Our attorneys can review your situation carefully and help you understand your options.

How Are Pecuniary Losses Calculated in NYC Wrongful Death Cases?

In New York City wrongful death lawsuits, pecuniary losses are calculated by carefully evaluating the financial impact of the deceased individual’s absence on surviving family members. The process involves several factors and typically requires detailed analysis and documentation to establish a clear monetary value for the losses experienced by the survivors.

Some of the primary factors considered when calculating pecuniary losses in NYC wrongful death cases include:

• Loss of Earnings: The courts will estimate how much income the deceased person would have provided to the family had they lived. This calculation includes not just current earnings, but also potential future earnings, raises, promotions, and benefits such as pensions or retirement contributions.
• Loss of Services: This refers to the monetary value of household tasks and services the deceased provided, such as childcare, housekeeping, cooking, home maintenance, and transportation. For example, if the deceased regularly cared for children or elderly relatives, the cost of hiring someone to perform those duties would be included in the calculation.
• Medical and Funeral Expenses: All reasonable medical expenses related to the deceased’s final injury or illness, as well as funeral and burial costs, are typically recoverable as pecuniary losses.
• Loss of Parental Guidance and Education: In cases where the deceased leaves behind children, New York courts recognize the monetary value of lost parental guidance, nurturing, and education. This requires careful consideration of the deceased’s role in the child’s life and the impact of their absence.
• Inheritance Losses: Pecuniary loss calculations may also include the loss of inheritance, meaning the financial assets the deceased would likely have accumulated and passed on to their heirs had they lived a full life.

To accurately determine these amounts, attorneys often rely on the experience of economic professionals who can evaluate factors such as life expectancy, work-life expectancy, earning potential, inflation rates, and other economic variables. These experts provide detailed reports and testimony that help clarify the financial losses sustained by the survivors.

It’s important to note that New York courts focus strictly on measurable financial losses when calculating pecuniary damages. Emotional distress, pain and suffering, and other non-economic losses experienced by survivors are generally not recoverable under New York’s wrongful death statutes.

Because calculating pecuniary losses can be complex and involves gathering substantial evidence, families in NYC often find it beneficial to seek experienced legal assistance. If you have questions about calculating pecuniary losses in a wrongful death case, please contact The Orlow Firm directly at (646) 647-3398 for a compassionate consultation regarding your specific circumstances.

Who Can Claim Pecuniary Losses in a New York City Wrongful Death Suit?

In New York City, the right to claim pecuniary losses in a wrongful death lawsuit is limited to specific individuals defined under state law. Unlike personal injury lawsuits, where the injured person usually brings the claim themselves, wrongful death claims are filed by the deceased person’s personal representative—often the executor or administrator of the estate. However, any compensation awarded for pecuniary losses is intended for the benefit of the deceased individual’s surviving family members.

Under New York law, the following family members may typically recover pecuniary damages:

• Spouses: A surviving spouse can claim compensation for lost financial support, future earnings, and the value of household services the deceased provided.
• Children: Minor children, or adult children who were financially dependent on the deceased, can seek damages for the loss of financial support, parental guidance, and nurturing.
• Parents: In some cases, parents may be eligible to recover pecuniary losses, particularly if their deceased child provided financial support or other valuable contributions to the household.
• Other Dependents: Occasionally, other individuals who can demonstrate financial reliance on the deceased—such as siblings or grandparents—may also be able to claim pecuniary losses, though this is less common and often requires clear evidence of dependence.

It is essential to note that New York prioritizes claims based on actual financial loss and tangible support. Emotional losses, such as grief or loss of companionship, are not considered pecuniary and typically aren’t compensable under New York’s wrongful death statute.

If you’re uncertain about whether you or your family members qualify to claim pecuniary losses in a New York City wrongful death lawsuit, consulting with an experienced wrongful death attorney can provide clarity. At The Orlow Firm, we understand the sensitivity and complexity of wrongful death cases and are dedicated to guiding you through this difficult time. To discuss your situation, please call us directly at (646) 647-3398 for a compassionate and confidential consultation.

Proving Pecuniary Losses in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in NYC

In a New York City wrongful death lawsuit, proving pecuniary losses is a critical step toward obtaining fair compensation for surviving family members. Pecuniary losses refer to the financial damages resulting from the death of a loved one. To ensure these losses are adequately compensated, you will need to present clear and convincing evidence demonstrating the economic impact the deceased person’s death has had—and will continue to have—on the surviving family members.

When proving pecuniary losses in NYC wrongful death cases, several types of evidence can be particularly effective:

• Income and Employment Records: Documentation such as pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns, and employment contracts can establish the deceased person’s income and earning capacity. These documents help illustrate the income the deceased would likely have earned had they lived, providing a foundation for calculating lost wages and future earnings.
• Medical and Funeral Expenses: Bills, invoices, and receipts from hospitals, doctors, funeral homes, and cemeteries can substantiate the financial costs directly associated with the individual’s injury, medical care, and funeral arrangements.
• Household Services: If the deceased provided essential household services—such as childcare, cooking, home maintenance, or transportation—the value of these contributions can be calculated and demonstrated through testimony, expert evaluations, or market rates for similar services in the New York City area.
• Benefits and Retirement Contributions: Documentation of lost pension benefits, retirement accounts, health insurance coverage, and other employment-related benefits can also help establish pecuniary losses. Statements from employers or benefit providers can clarify the extent of these losses.
• Expert Testimony: Economic experts or financial analysts can provide specialized insight into the complex calculations required to determine future lost earnings, inflation adjustments, and the present value of future economic losses.

Additionally, the testimony of family members, friends, and colleagues can play a significant role. Such testimony can demonstrate the deceased’s earning potential, career trajectory, and the nature and extent of their contributions to the household. For instance, a spouse explaining the deceased’s role as the primary breadwinner or caregiver can help the court understand the full impact of their loss.

In New York City, courts require that claims for pecuniary losses be well-supported and thoroughly documented. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain detailed records and gather as much relevant evidence as possible. Working with a dedicated wrongful death attorney can help you navigate this process, ensuring that all necessary evidence is collected and properly presented.

If you have questions about proving pecuniary losses in your NYC wrongful death lawsuit, contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a compassionate and confidential consultation.

Common Challenges When Claiming Pecuniary Losses in New York City

Claiming pecuniary losses in wrongful death lawsuits in New York City can sometimes present several challenges. Understanding these obstacles can help families better prepare and navigate the legal process more effectively.

• Difficulty in Proving Future Economic Contributions: One common challenge is the complexity involved in demonstrating the deceased person’s future earning potential. Courts in NYC require concrete evidence or expert testimony to estimate what the decedent could reasonably have earned had they lived. This can be particularly difficult when the deceased was young, self-employed, or had inconsistent income.
• Establishing Non-Wage Contributions: Another significant challenge involves proving the economic value of services the deceased provided that weren’t directly tied to income. For instance, a stay-at-home parent provides critical childcare, housekeeping, and family management services that have real monetary value. However, quantifying such contributions often requires detailed documentation and expert testimony to ensure fair compensation.
• Gathering Adequate Documentation: Families may find it challenging to gather the necessary financial documents and records required to substantiate their claims. This can include tax returns, pay stubs, employment records, medical expenses, and other relevant financial evidence. Incomplete records can weaken a claim, making it essential to carefully compile and present comprehensive documentation.
• Contesting Experts and Valuation Methods: Defense attorneys in NYC wrongful death cases frequently challenge the methods used to calculate pecuniary losses. Economic experts may disagree on assumptions about inflation rates, life expectancy, career trajectories, and other factors. Such disputes can complicate matters, potentially prolonging the litigation process.
• Emotional Difficulty for Families: Beyond the practical and legal hurdles, families often face emotional challenges when pursuing pecuniary losses. Discussing finances and quantifying a loved one’s economic value can be painful, adding stress to an already difficult experience. Compassionate legal counsel can help ease this burden by handling sensitive matters with care and understanding.

If you are facing challenges in claiming pecuniary losses in a wrongful death lawsuit in New York City, consulting an experienced wrongful death attorney can make a significant difference. At The Orlow Firm, we are dedicated to helping families navigate these complex issues. For a confidential consultation, call us at (646) 647-3398.

The Role of Economic Experts in Determining Pecuniary Loss in NYC Cases

In wrongful death lawsuits in New York City, accurately determining pecuniary loss—the financial impact experienced by surviving family members—is essential. Because these calculations can be complex and involve projecting future financial outcomes, economic experts often play a critical role in these cases.

Economic experts are professionals who specialize in analyzing financial data, trends, and future projections to provide courts with clear and well-supported assessments of monetary losses. Their involvement can significantly impact the outcome of wrongful death cases by providing objective, evidence-based evaluations of financial damages.

Here are some key ways economic experts assist in determining pecuniary loss:

• Calculating Lost Income and Benefits: Experts evaluate the deceased person’s past earnings, employment history, and potential career trajectory. Using this data, they estimate what the individual would have earned throughout their lifetime, including potential raises, promotions, bonuses, and retirement benefits.
• Valuing Lost Household Services: The expert may quantify the value of services the deceased provided to their family, such as childcare, housekeeping, cooking, or managing household finances. These contributions, while not income-generating, have clear financial value that the family must now replace.
• Assessing Medical and Funeral Expenses: Economic experts scrutinize medical bills related to the deceased’s final injuries or illness, as well as funeral and burial costs, ensuring these expenses are accurately accounted for in the claim.
• Projecting Future Financial Impact: Experts use accepted economic models to project future financial losses, accounting for inflation, interest rates, life expectancy, and other relevant factors. Their analyses help ensure compensation accurately reflects the long-term financial impact on surviving family members.

In New York City wrongful death cases, economic experts typically prepare detailed reports and may testify in court to explain their findings clearly and compellingly. Their testimony helps judges and juries understand complex financial matters and reach fair conclusions regarding compensation.

Because each case’s circumstances are unique, experienced wrongful death attorneys often collaborate closely with economic experts to build strong cases that accurately represent the family’s financial losses. If you have questions about how an economic expert could help in your wrongful death claim, consider contacting The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a confidential consultation.

How New York Courts View Pecuniary Loss in Wrongful Death Claims

In New York wrongful death lawsuits, courts focus primarily on pecuniary losses when determining compensation for surviving family members. Pecuniary loss refers specifically to the financial and economic damages resulting from the death of a loved one. New York law does not generally recognize emotional pain and suffering in wrongful death cases, which places even greater emphasis on clearly establishing and quantifying pecuniary loss.

New York courts typically consider several key factors when evaluating pecuniary loss, including:

• Loss of financial support: The court reviews the deceased individual’s earning potential, employment history, and the financial contributions they provided to their dependents. For example, if the deceased was the primary breadwinner for a family in NYC, the court will assess their salary, expected future earnings, and likely career progression to estimate the family’s future economic losses.
• Loss of parental guidance and care: If the deceased was a parent, courts recognize the economic value associated with the loss of parental guidance, nurturing, and education to minor children. This involves assessing the deceased parent’s role in childcare, education, and household management, and assigning an economic value to these contributions.
• Medical and funeral expenses: Courts also factor in the direct out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the family, such as medical bills related to the deceased’s final illness or injury, and funeral and burial costs.
• Loss of inheritance: Pecuniary loss may include the value of assets or inheritance that dependents would have reasonably expected to receive had the deceased lived to their normal life expectancy.

It’s important to note that New York courts require clear, substantial evidence when calculating pecuniary losses. Documentation such as pay stubs, tax returns, employment records, and expert testimony from economists or financial analysts often plays a crucial role in substantiating these claims.

Ultimately, New York City courts aim to provide fair and just compensation based on tangible economic losses. A thorough and well-documented presentation of pecuniary losses can significantly influence the outcome of a wrongful death lawsuit in NYC. If you’re facing the complexities of a wrongful death claim, consulting with an experienced attorney can help ensure your family’s financial losses are accurately represented and effectively pursued. For personalized guidance, contact The Orlow Firm directly at (646) 647-3398.

Differences Between Pecuniary and Non-Pecuniary Losses in New York Wrongful Death Cases

In a New York wrongful death lawsuit, understanding the difference between pecuniary and non-pecuniary losses is essential, as it significantly impacts the types of compensation available to surviving family members.

Pecuniary losses, as previously discussed, refer to financial damages directly tied to the deceased person’s death. These losses are quantifiable and typically include factors like lost wages, loss of financial support, medical expenses incurred before death, funeral costs, and loss of the services or guidance provided by the deceased. For instance, if the deceased was the primary breadwinner of the family, pecuniary losses would include the income they would have earned throughout their lifetime to support their family in New York City.

On the other hand, non-pecuniary losses are damages that are not strictly financial and are more subjective in nature. These losses include emotional distress, pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of companionship, and loss of consortium (the deprivation of the benefits of a family relationship). For example, the emotional trauma experienced by a spouse or child after losing a loved one would fall under non-pecuniary losses.

However, it’s important to note that, under current New York wrongful death laws, compensation for non-pecuniary losses is significantly limited. In fact, New York law typically does not permit surviving family members to recover damages for emotional grief or loss of companionship in wrongful death claims. Instead, the focus remains primarily on the tangible financial losses suffered by the family due to the death.

To summarize clearly, here are the key distinctions:

• Pecuniary Losses: Tangible, economic damages such as lost income, medical bills, funeral costs, and loss of household services.
• Non-Pecuniary Losses: Intangible, non-economic damages such as emotional pain, grief, loss of companionship, and mental anguish, which are generally not compensable in New York wrongful death cases.

If you have questions about what types of losses you might be eligible to recover in a wrongful death lawsuit in New York City, it’s advisable to discuss your situation with an experienced wrongful death attorney. At The Orlow Firm, our dedicated attorneys can help you understand the types of damages applicable to your specific circumstances and guide you through the legal process. To speak with us directly, please call (646) 647-3398.

Time Limits for Claiming Pecuniary Losses in NYC Wrongful Death Lawsuits

In New York City, wrongful death lawsuits, including claims for pecuniary losses, are governed by specific time limitations known as statutes of limitations. Understanding these timelines is crucial, as failing to file within the allowed period can result in losing the right to seek compensation entirely.

Under New York law, a wrongful death claim must typically be filed within two years from the date of the decedent’s death. It’s important to note that this is different from the date of the accident or injury itself—it specifically refers to the date the person passed away due to the wrongful act or negligence of another.

There are certain limited exceptions and special circumstances that can affect these timeframes, such as:

• Claims against government entities: If you’re filing a wrongful death claim against a city agency, like the New York City Transit Authority or another municipal body, you will usually need to file a Notice of Claim within 90 days of the incident, followed by a lawsuit within a shorter timeframe than standard cases.
• Claims involving minors: If the decedent’s beneficiaries include minor children, specific considerations may sometimes extend or alter timelines, although these circumstances are highly case-specific and require careful legal evaluation.

Because of these strict deadlines, it’s advisable to consult with an experienced wrongful death attorney promptly after losing a loved one. An attorney can help ensure your claim is filed properly and within the required timeframe, protecting your right to recover pecuniary losses—such as lost income, medical expenses, and funeral costs—in your wrongful death lawsuit.

If you have questions about the time limits applicable to your wrongful death claim or need assistance navigating the legal process, contact The Orlow Firm today at (646) 647-3398 for a compassionate, personalized consultation.

How an Attorney Can Help You Recover Pecuniary Losses in NYC

Losing a loved one due to wrongful death is emotionally devastating, and the financial consequences can compound the stress and uncertainty faced by surviving family members. In New York City, pursuing compensation for pecuniary losses in a wrongful death lawsuit can be complex. An experienced wrongful death attorney can guide you through this challenging process, helping ensure your family receives fair compensation for your financial losses.

Here are several ways an attorney can assist you in recovering pecuniary losses in your NYC wrongful death claim:

• Evaluating Your Claim Thoroughly: Your attorney will carefully assess the specifics of your case to determine all potential pecuniary losses you can claim. This includes lost income, loss of financial support, funeral and burial expenses, and other quantifiable financial damages stemming from your loved one’s death.
• Gathering Essential Evidence: To build a strong case, your lawyer will collect critical evidence needed to establish pecuniary loss clearly. This may involve securing employment and income records, tax returns, medical bills, funeral expenses, and other documentation that demonstrates the financial impact of your loss.
• Collaborating with Economic Experts: Attorneys often work closely with economic specialists who can calculate and clearly communicate the monetary value of your losses. These experts help present precise, credible figures for lost wages, future earning potential, benefits, and other economic contributions your loved one would have provided.
• Navigating Complex Legal Procedures: New York wrongful death lawsuits involve specific legal processes, deadlines, and rules. Your attorney will manage all procedural requirements, ensuring your claim complies with New York State laws and court requirements. This helps prevent delays or potential dismissal of your case based on technicalities.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies and Opposing Parties: Insurers and opposing attorneys often seek to minimize payouts. Your lawyer will advocate assertively on your behalf, leveraging their knowledge and experience to negotiate effectively and seek fair compensation for your pecuniary losses.
• Representing You in Court: If your case proceeds to trial, your attorney will present compelling arguments and evidence in court to clearly demonstrate your financial damages. Effective courtroom representation can be crucial in persuading a judge or jury of the validity and extent of your pecuniary losses.

At The Orlow Firm, our attorneys understand the emotional and financial strain families face after losing a loved one. We are committed to providing compassionate, dedicated representation to help you recover pecuniary losses resulting from wrongful death. If you have questions about pecuniary losses or wish to discuss your case, contact our team directly at (646) 647-3398 for a confidential consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pecuniary Loss in New York Wrongful Death Lawsuits

When dealing with wrongful death lawsuits in New York City, understanding pecuniary loss is crucial. Below, we’ve answered some common questions to help clarify this complex topic:

1. What exactly is considered a pecuniary loss? Pecuniary loss refers to measurable financial damages resulting from a person’s wrongful death. This can include loss of income, loss of future earnings, funeral and burial expenses, medical costs prior to death, and the value of services or support the deceased provided to family members.
2. Can emotional suffering be claimed as a pecuniary loss in New York? No. In New York wrongful death cases, emotional losses such as grief, mental anguish, or loss of companionship are considered non-pecuniary losses and are not recoverable under current state law. Pecuniary losses are strictly financial.
3. Who can recover pecuniary losses after a wrongful death in NYC? In New York, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate files the wrongful death claim. Any compensation awarded goes to the deceased’s beneficiaries, typically immediate family members such as the spouse, children, or dependent parents.
4. How are pecuniary losses calculated? Calculating pecuniary losses involves assessing factors such as:
   The deceased person’s age, health, and life expectancy at the time of death.
   The deceased person’s earning capacity and potential for future income.
   Financial support or services the deceased provided to the family, such as childcare, household maintenance, or caregiving.
   Funeral and burial expenses and any medical bills incurred prior to death.
   Economic experts often assist in accurately determining these amounts.
5. Is there a time limit for claiming pecuniary losses in New York City? Yes. Generally, a wrongful death lawsuit in New York must be filed within two years of the date of the person’s death. Missing this deadline can mean losing the opportunity to recover pecuniary losses altogether.
6. Do I need an attorney to claim pecuniary losses? While you’re not legally required to have an attorney, wrongful death claims can be complex, involving detailed financial calculations and legal procedures. An experienced NYC wrongful death attorney can help you navigate the process, gather necessary evidence, and advocate for fair compensation on your behalf.
7. If the deceased was unemployed, can pecuniary losses still be claimed? Yes. Even if the deceased was not employed, they may have provided valuable services or support to the family, such as childcare, household responsibilities, or caregiving for elderly relatives. The value of these contributions can be included in pecuniary loss calculations.
8. How do I prove pecuniary losses in court? Proving pecuniary losses typically involves presenting clear and thorough evidence, such as:
   Employment and income records
   Medical bills and funeral expense receipts
   Testimony from family members and economic experts
   Documentation of the deceased person’s contributions to the household and family

   An attorney can guide you through gathering and presenting this evidence effectively.

If you have additional questions about pecuniary losses in wrongful death cases or need assistance evaluating your situation, contact The Orlow Firm today at (646) 647-3398. We’re here to help you understand your rights and options during this difficult time.

Cindy Cordova

Website

Cindy Cordova is a seasoned legal writer with over seven years of experience crafting clear, informative, and professional content for law firm websites. With a B.A. in English from Trinity Christian College, she combines her strong writing background with a deep understanding of legal topics to help firms connect with their clients through trustworthy and accessible content.

Whether she’s writing about personal injury law, civil rights, or complex litigation, Cindy’s goal is to make the legal process easier to understand while upholding the integrity and tone of each firm she represents.

When she’s not immersed in legal content, Cindy enjoys cozying up with her dog, Bingo, and watching a good murder mystery.