Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience. It is especially hard when that loss is caused by the negligence or intentional actions of another party. In Texas, families who have lost a loved one due to wrongful death may be entitled to compensation. However, pursuing a wrongful death claim requires the assistance of a lawyer experienced in personal injury law, specifically wrongful death cases. 

Understanding wrongful death claims in Texas can help you obtain the compensation you deserve for the untimely loss of a loved one. This article discusses the types of lawyers who handle wrongful death claims, explains what a wrongful death claim is, and addresses the types of recovery that families can expect. 

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim? 

A wrongful death claim is a legal action taken by the family members of a deceased individual when that person’s death is caused by the negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct of another party. Texas law allows surviving family members to seek compensation for the harm caused by their loved one’s death. 

A wrongful death occurs when someone dies from an act that would have entitled them to bring a personal injury lawsuit if they had survived. 

Common causes of wrongful death include: 

  • Car accidents caused by negligent or reckless driving
  • Medical malpractice, such as surgical errors or misdiagnoses
  • Workplace accidents, including construction accidents or industrial negligence
  • Defective products that lead to fatal injuries 
  • Intentional acts, such as homicide or assault, leading to death

When filing a wrongful death claim, the surviving family members can seek justice for the loss of their loved one. They seek compensation for their grief, financial loss, and other hardships caused by the death. 

Types of Lawyers Who Handle Wrongful Death Claims in Texas

Not all lawyers handle wrongful death claims. These cases require thorough knowledge of both personal injury law and the specific legal procedures surrounding wrongful death claims. 

The following types of lawyers typically handle wrongful death cases in Texas: 

  • Personal Injury Lawyers: Personal injury lawyers often handle wrongful death claims, as these cases are essentially personal injury claims except that the victim has passed away. 
  • Wrongful Death Lawyers: Some personal injury firms focus particularly on wrongful death claims. A wrongful death lawyer will have extensive experience handling these types of cases and a deep understanding of the emotional and financial challenges that come with the loss of a loved one. 
  • Trial Lawyers: If your wrongful death case goes to trial, you may need a trial lawyer. This type of attorney has specific experience in litigating cases in court. Trial lawyers have the skills and courtroom experience to present evidence, question witnesses, and advocate for your family’s right to compensation in front of a judge or jury. 

When you work with any one of these types of attorneys, you will give your family and wrongful death claim the best chance of success. 

What Type of Recovery Can Families Expect in a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas? 

The purpose of a wrongful death claim is to seek compensation for the losses caused by the death of a loved one. In Texas, the types of damages that may be awarded in a wrongful death case include: 

  • Economic Damages: These damages are intended to compensate the family for the financial losses they experience due to the death of their loved one. This includes damages for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and medical expenses. 
  • Non-Economic Damages: These damages compensate for the emotional toll and pain the family has suffered as a result of the death. They can include money for pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of companionship. 
  • Punitive Damages: Texas law allows punitive damages in some cases. These damages are intended to punish the wrongdoer for particularly egregious or reckless conduct. 

Punitive damages are not available in every case, so consult with your attorney to see if your case qualifies. 

Contact a Weatherford Wrongful Death Lawyer at Stephens Law Firm, PLLC for a Free Consultation

At Stephens Law Firm, PLLC, we understand how devastating the loss of a loved one can be. If you have lost a loved one due to a wrongful death in Texas, we are here to help.

Contact our Fort Worth and Weatherford wrongful death lawyers at Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents to schedule a free consultation.

Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
1300 S University Dr # 300
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 420-7000

Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents – Weatherford Office
109 York Ave Suite #201
Weatherford, TX 76086
(817) 409-7000