Richmond Wrongful Death Lawyer

When a loved one dies due to another party’s negligence, the lives of those dependent on them undergo a sudden and profound change. In addition to coping with the absence of the deceased, particularly when they were the primary breadwinners, the family must also endure significant mental anguish for the rest of their lives. At Lone Star Injury Attorneys, we strongly believe that those responsible for fatal accidents should be held accountable for their actions. You have the right to pursue a wrongful death action against those liable for the loss of your loved one.

The grieving process has no set timeframe and may feel like an eternal healing journey. In such circumstances, initiating legal action against the responsible parties may seem overwhelming for the victim’s estate. However, with an experienced wrongful death lawyer from our firm, you can hold the at-fault parties accountable for the loss you have suffered. While no amount of compensation can replace the life of a loved one, the funds recovered can significantly alleviate the financial burden arising from their death. Our compassionate personal injury attorneys are here to guide you through the claims process and handle all the legal aspects of your case.

How Do I File a Wrongful Death Claim in Richmond?

The first step in filing a wrongful death lawsuit is establishing that there is indeed a viable claim. To determine whether you have a legal basis for a claim, several criteria must be met. First, there must be a death. If the victim sustained serious injuries but survived, this would fall under a standard personal injury lawsuit. Second, your wrongful death attorney must demonstrate that the death was caused by someone else’s negligence. For example, if your loved one died in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, you must show how the driver’s breach of duty resulted in the crash and that your loved one would be alive if the defendant had not been negligent.

Next, it is important to understand that not everyone can file a wrongful death claim. Typically, the deceased’s estate, immediate family members, including spouses, children, and parents, can file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, this may vary depending on state laws, and it is advisable to discuss this with an attorney familiar with local regulations. In Texas, for instance, a personal representative of the victim is responsible for the legal procedures and distribution of the deceased’s estate.

Once you have determined the appropriate person to represent you in the legal process, it is crucial to be aware that there are statutes of limitations for wrongful death cases. Generally, you have up to two years from the time of your loved one’s death to file a claim. Finally, the last step involves filing a formal lawsuit in the appropriate court. Wrongful death claims can be more complex, time-consuming, and costly compared to personal injury lawsuits. Although you are not prohibited from filing the claim on your own, it is in your best interest to consult with a legal professional. A knowledgeable attorney understands the applicable laws and will support you throughout the legal process.

Are There Any Exceptions to the Statute of Limitations in a Fatal Accident Case?

As mentioned earlier, there is a maximum two-year period to file a wrongful death claim. If this timeframe expires before your case is brought forward, you risk losing your rights to seek legal compensation. While courts generally adhere to strict guidelines regarding the statute of limitations, there are a few exceptions where the time limit may be extended. These exceptions include cases involving homicides, medical malpractice, and incidents involving government entities.

Murder & Homicides

Homicides and murders are often meticulously planned, and it may take months or even years to build a solid case and identify the responsible party. In such cases, the statute of limitations does not begin until the guilty party is determined.

Medical Malpractice

When you receive news that your loved one died in a hospital, it is not always immediately evident that medical negligence caused their death. It may take time before the cause of death becomes apparent, even after the burial. In such circumstances, the statute of limitations is considered to begin at the moment you discover the cause of death, rather than the actual time of death.

Government Entities

The time it takes for the statute of limitations to lapse may vary in cases involving government entities and wrongful death. However, this does not apply universally to all state entities. If your wrongful death case involves a government entity, it is highly advisable to discuss the specifics with a lawyer in Richmond.

Our Richmond Wrongful Death Attorneys Can Help

Fatal accident claims are highly challenging and can be overwhelming for grieving families, making it difficult to pursue full justice on their own. Our Richmond wrongful death lawyers are here to support you, relieving you of the burden of navigating complex court processes while dealing with your grief. Contact our offices today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case.