Phoenix Wrongful Death Lawyers

What Should I Do After a Wrongful Death in Phoenix, AZ?

The loss of a loved one is devastating, and knowing what steps to take after a wrongful death can help protect your family’s rights and future. Here’s what to do:

• Seek immediate support from family, friends, or counselors to navigate this difficult time.
• Obtain a copy of the death certificate and any medical records to document the cause and circumstances of the passing.
• Report the incident to the appropriate authorities, such as the Phoenix Police Department, if it occurred under suspicious or unlawful circumstances.
• Collect information related to the incident, including witness statements, photographs, or video footage, to support your case.
• Avoid discussing the case or accepting settlement offers from insurance companies before consulting with an attorney.
• Contact an experienced Phoenix wrongful death lawyer to explore your legal options and protect your family’s rights.

At Thompson Law, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through the legal process, handle the details, and help secure justice for your loved one.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Phoenix?

In Arizona, only certain individuals can file a wrongful death claim for compensation after losing a loved one. These include:

• A surviving spouse.
• Children, whether minors or adults.
• Parents or legal guardians.
• Representatives of the deceased’s estate on behalf of eligible family members.

Disputes can arise if multiple family members attempt to file or claim compensation. An attorney can help ensure the process is fair and efficient, protecting your rights as a beneficiary.

Typically, a surviving spouse files on behalf of minor children, and they may also have priority over adult children when filing a claim. For guidance on filing a wrongful death claim, contact us today.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Phoenix

Wrongful deaths occur due to negligence, recklessness, or intentional harm. Common causes include:

• Car accidents caused by distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence.
• Medical malpractice involving misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or improper treatment.
• Workplace accidents resulting from unsafe conditions or lack of proper training.
• Defective products that fail to meet safety standards.
• Criminal acts such as assaults or other violent crimes.

Our legal team will thoroughly investigate your case to identify negligence or wrongdoing and build a strong claim for justice and compensation.

Who is Liable in a Wrongful Death Case in Phoenix?

Determining liability in a wrongful death case involves identifying all parties responsible for your loved one’s passing. Potentially liable parties may include:

• Negligent individuals, such as a reckless driver, healthcare provider, or employer.
• Product manufacturers if a defective product contributed to the death.
• Property owners who failed to address hazardous conditions on their premises.
• Government entities responsible for maintaining safe roadways or public spaces.

Our Phoenix wrongful death lawyers will investigate all aspects of your case to uncover liable parties and hold them accountable.

Determining Fault in a Wrongful Death Case in Phoenix, AZ

Establishing fault in a wrongful death case requires a comprehensive investigation and evidence to prove negligence. Key evidence includes:

• Testimonies from witnesses.
• Official police reports or incident documentation.
• Video footage or photos of the scene.
• Medical and forensic records linking the death to the incident.

To prove negligence, your legal team must demonstrate that the responsible party:

• Owed a duty of care to your loved one.
• Breached that duty through reckless or negligent actions.
• Caused the fatal incident through their breach of duty.
• Resulted in damages, such as emotional and financial hardships for surviving family members.

At Thompson Law, we work diligently to build a compelling case to ensure justice is served. Contact us today for a free consultation.

How Can a Phoenix Wrongful Death Attorney Help?

At Thompson Law, our Phoenix wrongful death attorneys are experienced in handling complex cases with compassion and diligence. We are committed to investigating every detail to identify who is responsible for your loved one’s passing. From start to finish, we will guide you through the legal process and help you understand your rights under Arizona law.

To build a strong wrongful death case, our team will gather and review critical evidence, including:

• Eyewitness statements.
• Police and incident reports.
• Testimony from medical and accident reconstruction experts.
• Medical records and autopsy findings.
• Video footage or photographs from the scene.
• Evidence of unsafe conditions or negligence.

Each wrongful death case is unique, and our knowledge of Arizona laws ensures we can handle even the most challenging claims. Let us advocate for justice and work to secure the compensation your family deserves.

What Factors Determine the Value of a Wrongful Death Claim?

The value of a wrongful death claim depends on several factors unique to each case. Insurance companies and courts consider various elements when determining the compensation a family may receive, including:

• The type and seriousness of the accident.
• The deceased’s age, occupation, and lifestyle.
• The health and life expectancy of the deceased before the incident.
• The deceased’s past and potential future earnings.
• The financial support provided to the spouse.
• Whether the deceased had minor children and the number of dependents.
• The deceased’s involvement in their community and relationships.

These factors can either increase or decrease the potential settlement amount. For instance, a claim may result in lower compensation if the victim was elderly, had no dependents, and was partially at fault for the accident. Conversely, a claim may be higher in value if the victim was young, fully blameless, and left behind a spouse and minor children who depended on their financial and emotional support.

Why Choose Thompson Law?

Selecting the right legal team is crucial when seeking justice for your loved one’s wrongful death. At Thompson Law, we are dedicated to providing exceptional support and results for families during this difficult time. Here’s why families in Phoenix trust us:

• No Fees Unless We Win – We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case and recover compensation for you.
• Proven Results – With over $1.9 billion recovered for our clients, we have the expertise to deliver the best outcomes.
• Quick and Easy Process – Start your case by calling us anytime. You can consult with a lawyer immediately and begin your claim without delay.
• Available 24/7 – We know legal emergencies can happen at any time, so our team is ready to help whenever you need us.
• Personalized Support – We treat every client with care and respect, ensuring clear communication and updates throughout the process.
• Bilingual Assistance – We provide bilingual services to Spanish-speaking families, removing language barriers and ensuring access to justice.

At Thompson Law, we focus on securing maximum compensation for families grieving a wrongful death. From investigating the circumstances to negotiating with insurance companies or preparing for trial, we handle every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing.

Don’t wait to take action. Arizona law sets a limited time to file a wrongful death claim. Contact us today for a free consultation and let our Phoenix wrongful death lawyers fight for the justice and support your family deserves.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Arizona?

In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is typically two years from the date of your loved one’s passing. However, this timeline may vary depending on the circumstances, such as cases involving government entities. Consulting a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible ensures you don’t miss important deadlines.

Can multiple family members file separate wrongful death claims for the same case?

No, Arizona law typically allows only one wrongful death claim per case. Eligible family members, such as a spouse, children, or parents, can collaborate to file a single claim. If disputes arise, an attorney can help resolve them and ensure all eligible beneficiaries are included.

What damages are recoverable in a wrongful death case?

Families may recover compensation for economic and non-economic damages, including funeral and burial expenses, lost income, loss of companionship, and emotional pain and suffering. The exact amount depends on the circumstances surrounding the death and its impact on surviving family members.

Can I file a wrongful death claim if criminal charges are already being pursued?

Yes, a wrongful death claim is a civil matter separate from criminal charges. Even if the responsible party is facing criminal charges, you can still pursue a wrongful death lawsuit to seek financial compensation for your family’s losses.

What if the death was partially caused by the victim’s own actions?

Arizona follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning compensation can still be recovered even if the deceased was partially at fault. The compensation awarded may be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the victim. Our Phoenix wrongful death lawyers can help you evaluate the case and determine the potential impact of shared fault.