Wrongful Death

Wrongful Death Claims in Louisiana

Compassionate Legal Advocacy for Families Affected by Wrongful Death

Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience, and when that loss is due to someone else's negligence or wrongful actions, the emotional and financial impact can be overwhelming. At Lawrence & Odom LLP, we are here to support you during this challenging time. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping you seek justice and obtain the compensation you deserve through a wrongful death claim in Louisiana.

What is a Wrongful Death Claim?

In Louisiana, a wrongful death claim is a legal action brought by the surviving family members of a person who has died due to the negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct of another party. The goal of a wrongful death claim is to hold the responsible parties accountable and to seek compensation for the losses suffered by the deceased's family.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Louisiana?

Under Louisiana law, the following individuals are eligible to file a wrongful death claim:

Surviving Spouse or Children: The deceased's surviving spouse or children are first in line to bring a wrongful death claim.
Parents: If there is no surviving spouse or children, the deceased's parents can file a claim.
Siblings: If there are no surviving spouse, children, or parents, the deceased's siblings may be eligible to bring a claim.
Estate Representative: An estate representative may also file a wrongful death claim on behalf of the beneficiaries if none of the above parties are available.

Types of Wrongful Death Cases

Wrongful death claims can arise from various situations, including but not limited to:

Car Accidents: Fatal accidents caused by reckless or impaired driving.
Medical Malpractice: Deaths resulting from negligence by healthcare professionals.
Workplace Accidents: Fatal injuries occurring due to unsafe working conditions or employer negligence.
Product Liability: Deaths caused by defective or dangerous products.
Slip and Fall Accidents: Fatal injuries resulting from hazardous conditions on someone else's property.
Criminal Acts: Deaths caused by violent crimes such as assault or homicide.

What to Do If You Suspect a Wrongful Death

Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an experienced wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options.
Gather Evidence: Collect any available evidence related to the incident, such as accident reports, medical records, and witness statements.
Document Damages: Keep detailed records of financial losses, including funeral expenses, medical bills, and any other related costs.
File a Claim: Work with your attorney to file a wrongful death claim and pursue compensation for your losses.

How Our Attorneys Can Help

At Lawrence & Odom LLP, we provide comprehensive legal services to support you through the wrongful death claims process:

Case Evaluation: We will review the circumstances of your loved one's death to determine if you have a valid wrongful death claim.
Investigation: We conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, identify responsible parties, and build a strong case.
Legal Representation: Our attorneys will represent you in negotiations with insurance companies and in court to ensure your rights are protected.
Compensation: We will work to secure compensation for a range of damages, including:
- Funeral and Burial Expenses: Reimbursement for the costs associated with laying your loved one to rest.
- Medical Expenses: Compensation for any medical costs incurred before the death.
- Lost Income: Recovery for the financial support your loved one would have provided.
- Loss of Companionship: Compensation for the emotional loss of a loved one's presence and support.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for the emotional pain and suffering experienced by surviving family members.
Trial Preparation: If necessary, we will prepare your case for trial and advocate on your behalf in court.

Why Choose Lawrence & Odom LLP?

Experienced Attorneys: Our legal team has a proven track record of successfully handling wrongful death claims..
Compassionate Support: We offer compassionate and personalized legal services, understanding the emotional and financial toll of losing a loved one.
Proven Results: We have a history of securing significant settlements and verdicts for wrongful death cases.
No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay any legal fees unless we win your case.

Get a Free Consultation

If you believe you have a wrongful death claim in Louisiana, don't wait to seek legal help. Contact Lawrence & Odom LLP today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

Call us at (318) 232-4000 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you seek justice for your loved one and obtain the compensation you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Louisiana?

A: In Louisiana, you generally have one year from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. It is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you meet all deadlines and preserve your rights.

Q: What if the responsible party is a government entity?

A: If the responsible party is a government entity, there are specific rules and deadlines for filing a claim. Our attorneys can guide you through the process of filing a claim against a government agency.

Q: Can I still pursue a wrongful death claim if there is a criminal case?

A: Yes, you can pursue a wrongful death claim independently of any criminal case. While a criminal trial seeks to punish the wrongdoer, a wrongful death claim aims to provide financial compensation to the family.

Q: How is compensation determined in a wrongful death case?

A: Compensation is based on various factors, including the financial support the deceased would have provided, the cost of funeral and medical expenses, and the emotional impact on the family. Our attorneys will help you assess and quantify your damages.