Surviving Spouse
The husband or wife of the deceased typically has priority in filing a wrongful death claim.
Wrongful Death Lawyer Serving Louisiana & Texas
The sudden loss of a loved one is one of the most painful experiences a family can endure. When that loss is caused by another party's negligence or wrongful conduct, the grief is often compounded by unanswered questions, financial stress, and a sense that the loss could have been prevented.
At The Sartin Law Firm, we represent families who have lost a loved one due to negligence, recklessness, or misconduct. Our role is to help families understand their legal rights, pursue accountability, and seek compensation that reflects both the financial and personal impact of their loss.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Louisiana and Texas
A wrongful death occurs when a person loses their life as a result of another party's negligent, careless, or intentional actions. These claims are civil cases brought on behalf of surviving family members, not criminal prosecutions. While no legal action can undo the loss, a wrongful death claim can help provide financial stability and a measure of justice.
Wrongful death laws vary by state. Louisiana and Texas each have specific rules regarding who may bring a claim, what damages may be recovered, and how long families have to act. Because of these differences, it is critical to work with an attorney who understands the nuances of both jurisdictions.
Who May File a Wrongful Death Claim
In most cases, wrongful death claims are brought by close family members of the deceased. This may include a surviving spouse, children, or parents, depending on the circumstances and applicable state law. When immediate family members are not available, other relatives may be eligible.
Children
Both minor and adult children may have standing to bring a claim for the loss of a parent.
Parents
Parents may file when an unmarried child without children of their own passes away.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death
Wrongful death claims arise from many types of accidents and incidents. In many cases, these incidents result from preventable failures.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents caused by distracted, impaired, or reckless drivers.
Commercial Trucking
18-wheeler and transportation accidents involving driver fatigue, poor maintenance, or unsafe practices.
Workplace Accidents
Industrial and construction site accidents caused by unsafe conditions or violations of safety regulations.
Defective Products
Dangerous or defective products that cause fatal injuries due to design flaws or manufacturing defects.
Fatal Pedestrian & Bicycle Accidents
Negligent drivers striking pedestrians or cyclists, often involving failure to yield, distracted driving, or unsafe roadway conditions.
Premises Liability
Dangerous property conditions, inadequate security, or negligent maintenance leading to fatal incidents.
The Impact of a Wrongful Death on Families
The consequences of losing a loved one extend far beyond immediate grief. Families are often left dealing with lost income, medical bills, funeral expenses, and long-term financial uncertainty. In addition, there are profound emotional losses that affect spouses, children, and parents for years to come.
Economic Losses
Lost income, benefits, funeral costs, and medical expenses create immediate financial strain.
Emotional Suffering
The loss of companionship, guidance, and love affects family members profoundly.
Long-Term Impact
Children lose a parent's guidance, spouses lose their partner, and parents lose their child's future.
Wrongful death claims are intended to address both the economic and non-economic losses suffered by surviving family members. These cases are about recognizing the full scope of what was taken, not just financially, but personally.
Compensation That May Be Available
Depending on the circumstances of the case, a wrongful death claim may seek compensation for various economic and non-economic damages.
Economic or Special Damages
- Funeral and burial expenses incurred by the family
- Medical costs related to the final injury or illness
- Loss of income and financial support the deceased would have provided
- Loss of benefits including pension, retirement, and insurance
- Future earning capacity lost due to premature death
Non-Economic or General Damages
- Loss of companionship and emotional support
- Loss of guidance and parental or spousal care
- Mental anguish suffered by surviving family members
- Emotional suffering and psychological trauma
- Loss of consortium affecting marital relationships
Why Wrongful Death Cases Require Experienced Legal Representation
Wrongful death claims are often complex and aggressively defended. Insurance companies and corporate defendants frequently attempt to minimize liability or shift blame in order to reduce payouts. These cases may involve extensive investigation, expert testimony, and detailed financial analysis.
Our Thorough Approach
- Work with investigators to reconstruct events and establish liability
- Consult with medical professionals to document injuries and causation
- Engage economic experts to calculate full financial impact
- Build strong, evidence-based claims that stand up in court
Our goal is to pursue full and fair compensation while handling the legal burden so families can focus on healing.
Our Approach to Representing Families
We understand that families pursuing wrongful death claims are doing so during one of the most difficult periods of their lives. We prioritize clear communication, compassion, and honesty at every stage of the process.
From Initial Consultation Through Resolution
Investigating the Cause of Death
Thorough examination of all circumstances surrounding the incident
Identifying Responsible Parties
Determining all parties who may bear liability for the loss
Managing Communications
Handling all interactions with insurers and defense attorneys
Preparing for Resolution
Building a strong case for negotiation or litigation
We treat every family with respect and every case with the seriousness it deserves.
Serving Families Throughout Louisiana and Texas
Based in Shreveport, The Sartin Law Firm represents families across Louisiana and Texas. Whether the loss occurred locally or involved interstate issues, we are equipped to handle wrongful death claims in both states.
Louisiana
- Shreveport
- Bossier City
- Natchitoches
- Monroe
- Alexandria
Texas
- Marshall
- Longview
- Tyler
- Texarkana
- East Texas
Speak With a Wrongful Death Attorney Today
If you have lost a loved one due to negligence or wrongful conduct, you do not have to face the legal process alone. A consultation with our firm can help you understand your options and determine the next steps.
Contact The Sartin Law Firm
Free Consultation
No cost, no obligation case evaluation with experienced attorneys
No Fees Unless We Win
You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for your injuries
Immediate Action
We begin investigating and building your case right away
Experienced Representation
Licensed in Louisiana and Texas
Available 24/7 for emergencies Licensed in Louisiana & Texas
Proudly Serving Louisiana & Texas
Shreveport • Bossier City • Natchitoches • East Texas • Marshall, TX • Longview, TX
Wherever you've been injured, we're ready to help.