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915-544-5200Socorro, TX Wrongful Death Lawyer
Skilled Attorney for Fatal Accidents and Wrongful Death Cases in Socorro
Losing a loved one because of someone else's negligence is a devastating experience. When this happens, families are not only left with emotional pain, but they will also be likely to experience financial burdens and unanswered questions. It can be overwhelming to deal with all of these factors, so it is essential to work with an attorney to determine the best ways to address a tragic loss and obtain compensation from the person or parties who were responsible.
At James Kennedy, P.L.L.C., we approach every case with care, ensuring that you receive thorough support during the legal process. Our team is committed to providing quality representation during this difficult time. From gathering evidence to presenting your case in court, our firm strives to pursue justice and alleviate stress so your family can focus on healing.
Understanding Wrongful Death Causes
A wrongful death occurs when someone's actions or negligence result in another person's untimely passing. Common causes of wrongful death include:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Reckless driving, driving under the influence, and distracted driving can lead to fatal car, truck, or motorcycle accidents.
- Medical Malpractice: Errors such as misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, or improper treatment can tragically result in a patient's death.
- Workplace Accidents: Hazardous working conditions or violations of safety regulations may lead to fatal incidents, especially in high-risk industries like construction.
- Defective Products: Products with design flaws, manufacturing defects, or insufficient warning labels can cause deadly injuries to consumers.
- Criminal Acts: Homicide or other violent acts that resulted in death may also provide grounds for wrongful death claims.
In each of these scenarios, the responsible party may be held liable through a wrongful death lawsuit, which offers a path to justice for the deceased's family members.
Texas Law on Wrongful Death Claims
The state provides specific rules regarding who can pursue a wrongful death lawsuit and the time frame within which it must be filed. These regulations address:
- Eligible Parties: Under Texas law, the deceased's spouse, children, or parents are able to file a wrongful death claim. If they do not file a claim within three months of the death, the executor or administrator of the estate may file.
- Statute of Limitations: Texas law requires wrongful death claims to be filed within two years from the date of death. Exceptions may apply in some instances, such as when the negligence was not immediately apparent.
- Proving Wrongful Death: To succeed in a wrongful death claim, it must be shown that someone's wrongful act or negligence caused the death and that the surviving family has experienced damages as a result of the death.
Our team will ensure compliance with these legal requirements while building a compelling case to support your family's claim.
Types of Damages Recoverable in a Wrongful Death Case
Wrongful death lawsuits are meant to compensate surviving family members for the emotional and financial losses they have endured. Damages typically fall into the following categories:
- Economic Damages: These cover quantifiable financial losses, including medical expenses for treatment provided before the death, costs related to a funeral and burial, and the loss of the financial support your loved one would have provided to your family.
- Non-Economic Damages: These compensate a family for intangible losses, including pain and suffering, mental distress, loss of companionship, and the emotional impact of losing a loved one.
- Punitive Damages: In instances where the defendant's conduct was particularly malicious or grossly negligent, the court may award additional damages to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar behavior in the future.
To determine the value of a wrongful death claim, we will carefully examine what would have been the deceased's life expectancy, earning potential, and contributions to the family, as well as any other factors that should be considered.
Navigating Wrongful Death Claims
Our firm takes a personalized approach to each case, and we will craft our strategies to your unique circumstances and needs. Our team will handle all aspects of your wrongful death claim, including:
- Conducting thorough investigations to identify the responsible parties and establish negligence
- Working with experts, such as medical professionals and accident reconstruction specialists, to strengthen your case
- Negotiating with insurance companies for fair settlements or pursuing litigation when necessary
Contact Our Socorro, Texas Wrongful Death Attorney
If your family has suffered the loss of a loved one due to someone's negligence, James Kennedy, P.L.L.C. is here to help. We understand the many challenges you are facing, and we are committed to pursuing justice for your loved one. Contact us at 915-544-5200 to schedule a free consultation to discuss the details of your case.