The sudden loss of a loved one is more than heartbreaking—it can change every aspect of your life. Families often struggle with unpaid medical bills, funeral expenses, and the income the deceased once provided. A personal injury attorney can help ease some of those pressures by holding the responsible party legally accountable.
At Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys, we aim to provide families with a sense of closure. While no legal action can undo what happened, pursuing a claim may help ensure your loved one’s story is heard and that similar tragedies are less likely to happen again. If you lost a loved one after a fatal accident, you can contact a Denton wrongful death lawyer for a free consultation.
State law clearly defines which relatives may bring a wrongful death claim. According to Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.004, the surviving spouse, children, and parents are eligible to file. Family members must file a lawsuit within three months of the person’s death; if they fail to do so, the estate representative may act on their behalf instead.
Wrongful death claims are filed in civil courts and are separate from criminal charges the state could bring against the responsible party. Even if a defendant faces criminal prosecution, your family can still seek damages through a wrongful death action in court.
This right to file exists regardless of whether the loss resulted from a traffic collision, workplace accident, or another negligent act. Because every wrongful death case is unique, it can be helpful to have a Denton lawyer explain your legal options.
Although every wrongful death case is different, certain types of incidents are more common across the state, including:
Each of these situations may involve multiple parties who share responsibility. A wrongful death attorney practicing in Denton can investigate the matter, gather evidence, consult experts, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
Families do not have unlimited time to take legal action. Under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003(b), most wrongful death claims must be filed within two years from the date of death. Missing this deadline can prevent your family from pursuing compensation in court.
There are exceptions in certain situations, such as when the responsible party cannot be immediately identified. In such a case, it is wise to consult a Denton personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to protect your wrongful death claim.
Losing a loved one because of someone else’s negligence is one of life’s hardest challenges. At Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys, we can guide your grieving family through a wrongful death accident claim and help you get answers. Call our Denton wrongful death lawyer today to learn how we can help you seek justice, honor your loved one, and find a path toward financial security.