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Houston Wrongful Death Lawyers

Thoughtful Wrongful Death Claim Guidance

We advocate for families in and around Houston who have endured the tragedy of losing a family member due to carelessness or intentional wrongdoing by corporations or individuals.

Wrongful deaths can stem from others’ acts or failures to act, encompassing:

  • Employers neglecting to implement sufficient safety protocols for their workforce
  • Responsible parties in deadly motor vehicle collisions
  • Manufacturers that produce faulty products
  • Contractors who lose their lives owing to the carelessness of property owners, refinery operators, or chemical facility proprietors

If you’ve faced the devastation of a family member’s death caused by another’s negligence, our skilled wrongful death attorneys are here to assist you in understanding your legal avenues. Our team can aid in navigating the pursuit of a claim for optimal recompense and in ensuring responsible entities are held liable for your loss.

We invite you to contact us at (281) 645-5000 to arrange a no-cost consultation with our legal experts. We have a track record of successfully managing wrongful death claims for families in Houston and the surrounding regions.

Understanding Wrongful Death in Texas

A wrongful death refers to any fatality caused by the negligent behavior of another person or entity. In these trying times, the adept wrongful death attorneys at our law firm are ready to guide you should you face such a distressing occurrence.

Who is Eligible to File for Wrongful Death?

In the aftermath of a tragic loss resulting from another’s oversight or reckless actions, you might have the legal standing to secure significant compensation by initiating a lawsuit against the party at fault. However, the question arises: who possesses the legal right to instigate a wrongful death lawsuit? In Texas, this right is confined to the deceased’s spouse, parents, or children. Extended relatives like siblings or grandparents, unfortunately, do not have this right.

Yet, there are exceptions to this general rule:

  • Individuals in common-law marriages and spouses who were separated when the incident occurred may still qualify; and
  • A biological parent of an adopted child is not permitted to initiate a wrongful death claim for that child, and vice versa for an adopted child in the case of a biological parent’s death.

While immediate family members have the right to demand recompense through a wrongful death lawsuit, it’s critical to act without delay. If these parties do not file a claim within three months following the wrongful death, the responsibility may fall to the estate’s executor or administrator. If confronted with the grievous loss of a loved one, securing immediate legal advice from a seasoned wrongful death attorney is crucial. Reach out to our dedicated team today for a complimentary consultation.

Securing Your Rightful Compensation in a Wrongful Death Claim

Compensation in wrongful death lawsuits primarily hinges on the financial and emotional hardships endured by the deceased’s direct relatives. In instances of gross negligence or intentional harm, families may also be granted punitive damages.

  • Economic damages might encompass the family’s loss of earnings over a prolonged period, alongside medical and funeral costs.
  • Non-economic damages cover aspects like emotional distress and mental suffering.
  • Punitive damages, aimed at penalizing those responsible for severe neglect resulting in fatality, may also be awarded.

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims generally spans two years. Timely action in pursuing your claim can enable your family to receive the comprehensive compensation rightfully owed to you.

After a loved one’s passing, you may seek reparation for both non-economic and economic losses, which may include:

  • Expenses for funeral and interment
  • Loss of the deceased’s financial contributions
  • Lost inheritance prospects
  • Loss of affection and companionship
  • Emotional trauma and distress

Compensation might also be recoverable for survival damages, encompassing losses that occurred prior to your loved one’s passing, such as medical costs, their pain and anguish, and other direct expenses.

The Importance of Choosing a Houston Wrongful Death Attorney

The period following the loss of a family member is emotionally turbulent. While monetary reparation cannot replace your parent, spouse, or child, it can afford the necessary time and stability to commence the healing journey. Nonetheless, grappling with legal intricacies amidst mourning can hinder the recovery path. This underscores the importance of engaging a compassionate, seasoned wrongful death lawyer to champion your cause.

A wrongful death attorney based in Houston will meticulously evaluate your situation, estimate damages, amass supporting evidence, and negotiate tirelessly for the highest possible settlement, allowing you to concentrate on recuperation and restoring normalcy. You’ve already endured so much — allow the experienced legal professionals at our firm to shoulder the burden henceforth.

Our team of wrongful death attorneys stands committed to ensuring that those culpable for your loss face justice. We are fervent and proactive in safeguarding your best interests.

FAQ

Can Siblings Initiate a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Typically, the right to file a wrongful death claim is reserved for parents, children, and spouses. Exceptions are scarce, but a sibling might secure compensation for certain expenses they’ve incurred, such as funding the deceased’s funeral.

How are Wrongful Death Settlements Disbursed in Texas?

Settlements for wrongful death are commonly issued as a single payment, though structured settlements can be arranged to provide a sustained income flow.

How to Establish a Wrongful Death in Texas?

Employing a proficient Texas wrongful death lawyer significantly bolsters your chances of demonstrating that your loved one’s demise resulted directly from another’s negligence. Your attorney will compile evidence to substantiate this assertion, but your documentation—photographs, medical invoices, pertinent records—can be invaluable. It’s prudent to maintain a diary of relevant reflections, specifics, or recollections before they dim.

Reach Out to the Seasoned Wrongful Death Attorneys Today

If you’ve suffered the loss of a family member due to someone’s negligent, reckless, or irresponsible behavior, our accomplished legal practitioners are here to assist. We’ve aided numerous individuals and families in navigating the complexities of wrongful death claims, securing due compensation. Our empathetic, experienced team of wrongful death lawyers grasps the emotional intricacies involved and how to expedite the attainment of the maximum settlement for our clientele. Navigating this challenging passage alone can be overwhelming; let a knowledgeable wrongful death lawyer stand with you. Contact us today at (281) 645-5000 for an obligation-free, confidential discussion about your circumstances.

Practice Areas

Client Reviews

THE RIGHT CHOICE

“I am a survivor of the March 23, 2005, BP explosion. Knowing my life had just been changed in an instant and not knowing what was to come was extremely unsettling. So when the time came to find legal representation, I chose Burwell Nebout personal injury attorneys from League City, Texas. Knowing they are from the Galveston County area made this an easy choice. Russ and Jimmy assured me they would do all things possible to help me and my family get through this most difficult time. Once again, I’d like to thank these men and their staff for their professional knowledge and guidance throughout those tough times. I know without a doubt I made the right choice.”

David Laymance
Santa Fe, Texas

LITIGATION EXPERTISE

“My company has faced disputes that require the litigation process to achieve resolution. I chose Russ and Jimmy to represent me not only for their ability to guide us through the process in a cost-efficient manner with the goal of resolution, but also with the comfort of knowing they have the skills and expertise to try the case.”

Will Watt
Friendswood, Texas

EXCELLENT WORK

“Thank you for the excellent work performed by you and your staff in helping our company each step of the way in our pursuit of seeking reimbursement from BP due to our losses from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The presentation of the facts as well as the unknowns with each turn of the roller coaster has been greatly appreciated. I cannot thank you enough for the work you put into this nor credit you enough for the polish and professionalism in the way you did it.”

Doug Vingoe
Houston, Texas

Case Results

Automobile Accident

$19.2 million

Two clients killed as a result of a special defect in the shoulder of the roadway. A state court jury trial resulted in a $19.2 million verdict.

Premises Liability

$10 million

Children that attended school on a former toxic dump site made claims for exposure injuries. $10 million settlement.

Liberty County Record Verdict

Record-setting verdict

Two high school seniors were on their way home on a stretch of road that had been the subject of repeated complaints to the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT) about the poor condition of the shoulder. When the students entered a curve, the poor condition of the shoulder resulted in a crash that killed one and severely brain-damaged the other. A trial against the Texas Attorney General’s office resulted in the discovery of altered records, a spoliation instruction, and a record-setting jury verdict for Liberty County.

Get In Touch With Burwell Nebout

There Is No Firm More Qualified to Fight for You!