Wrongful Death Attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana
Losing a loved one is never easy, but when their death results from negligence, the pain is compounded by questions and legal complications. You need strong legal support to deal with this turmoil.
Serving New Orleans, Louisiana, the Corrington Law Firm has been guiding families through wrongful death claims with compassion and professionalism since 1998.
The firm stands out for its dedication to client satisfaction and tangible results. Families seeking justice find the firm's approach both accessible and reassuring, as they are always available for communication and updates on their case.
Understanding Wrongful Death
Wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the fault or negligence of another party. It can arise from various situations, including vehicular accidents, medical malpractice, or accidents in the workplace.
In a wrongful death claim, the surviving family members or the estate of the deceased can file a lawsuit against the responsible party. The aim of such a lawsuit is to seek compensation for the losses incurred, which can include funeral expenses, loss of income, and emotional suffering.
Proving wrongful death often requires establishing that the defendant had a duty to the deceased, breached that duty, and that the breach directly resulted in the fatality. Legal guidance is critical, as such cases often involve complicated legal processes.
Additionally, since wrongful death claims are subject to the statute of limitations in Louisiana, it is necessary to take timely legal action to protect the rights of the surviving family members.
Wrongful Death Laws in Louisiana
Louisiana has several statutes governing wrongful death claims, which are critical to understand when pursuing a case.
Time Limits for Filing Claims
Louisiana has strict deadlines for filing a wrongful death claim. Generally, the claim must be filed within one year of the deceased person's death. Failing to meet this deadline can result in the loss of the right to pursue compensation.
Eligible Parties to File a Claim
Louisiana law specifies who can bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Typically, the surviving spouse and children have the primary right to file. If there is no surviving spouse or children, the deceased's parents, siblings, or grandparents may be eligible to file the claim.
Types of Damages Recoverable
Under Louisiana law, families may seek both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages can include medical bills, lost wages, and funeral costs. Non-economic damages can account for the pain and suffering endured by surviving family members.
Comparative Fault Considerations
Louisiana follows a comparative fault rule, which means that if the deceased is found to be partially at fault for their own death, the compensation awarded can be reduced. The court will assess the percentage of fault attributed to each party involved.
Caps on Damages
While Louisiana does not have a cap on compensatory damages in most wrongful death cases, there can be limitations in situations involving medical malpractice. Understanding these caps is necessary for accurately estimating potential compensation.
Survival Action vs. Wrongful Death Claims
In Louisiana, the law distinguishes between survival actions and wrongful death claims. A survival action allows the deceased's estate to recover damages that the deceased could have claimed if they had survived, such as pain and suffering before death. This is separate from wrongful death claims, which compensate the family for their losses.
Requirement for Evidence and Documentation
Proper documentation and evidence are crucial in wrongful death claims. Louisiana courts require comprehensive proof of negligence and the impact on surviving family members. This includes gathering medical records, witness statements, financial records, and any other documentation that can support the claim's validity. Legal representation can help assemble and present this evidence effectively.
How the Corrington Law Firm Supports Clients
The Corrington Law Firm prides itself on a client-first approach, so you receive personalized attention and comprehensive legal strategies tailored to your situation. The firm understands the emotional and financial toll of a wrongful death and works relentlessly to alleviate these burdens.
Their process includes a thorough investigation, collecting evidence, consulting with experts, and building a robust case to secure full compensation for the client’s loss. Throughout, open communication and support are prioritized, helping clients make informed decisions every step of the way.
They also strive to educate their clients about the legal process, so they understand their rights and options at every stage. By maintaining a compassionate and empathetic approach, the firm sets the foundation for successful collaboration.
They leverage their extensive network of professionals and resources to craft the most effective legal strategy possible, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
Wrongful Death Attorney Serving
New Orleans, Louisiana
Based in New Orleans, Louisiana, the Corrington Law Firm strives to deliver an outstanding level of professionalism to its clients. Focusing solely on personal injury cases since 1998, they have consistently tried to help clients secure justice and compensation. The firm values long-term relationships built on trust, maintaining high professional standards. If you need of dedicated legal support following a wrongful death, call the Corrington Law Firm to schedule a consultation.