Corpus Christi Wrongful Death Attorney

Compassionate Legal Support for Your Wrongful Death Claim in Texas

This is a tough time for you. You have to grieve and still ensure that you protect your family’s rights. I know it’s not fair, however, I greatly respect you for doing just that. I would be honored to discuss the facts behind the loss of your loved one. Because it is not just about a case, it is about a human being. 

I look forward to using my over 30 years of experience as an attorney to discuss the rights that you have in regards to the loss of your loved one. I hope our meeting gives you some comfort in that perhaps you can find a path to learn what really occurred in the loss of your family member. This is an important part of the grieving process and recovery.

I look forward to fighting hard to help your family. You have rights, and we look forward to protecting them.

To speak with an experienced Corpus Christi wrongful death attorney, give us a call at (361) 309-9332 or contact us online today.

Key Insights into Wrongful Death Claims

Wrongful death claims can be a complex and emotional process, and it's important to have a knowledgeable and compassionate attorney on your side. At Robert J. Gonzalez, Attorney At Law, we understand the intricacies of wrongful death cases and are dedicated to providing the support and guidance you need during this difficult time.

When pursuing a wrongful death claim, it's crucial to understand the following:

• The legal definition of wrongful death in Texas: This refers to a death caused by negligence or a wrongful act of another party. Understanding this can help articulate the grounds for your case.
• Who is eligible to file a wrongful death claim: In Texas, certain immediate family members, including the spouse, children, and parents, are eligible to file, ensuring the claim is focused on the most affected individuals.
• The types of damages that can be sought in a wrongful death lawsuit: Include compensation for financial losses, emotional suffering, and punitive damages when applicable.
• The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim: Generally, you have two years from the date of death to file a claim, though there can be exceptions that affect this timeline.

Our team is committed to helping you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation and justice your family deserves. We will work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable and provide you with the compassionate representation you need.

Eligibility to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas

In Texas, wrongful death claims can be filed by certain members of the decedent's family. Examples of family members that can file for a wrongful death claim are parents, surviving spouse, children, and even adopted children. The claim can be a group claim by the family or a single claim. 

The law in Texas mandates that these claims be made in a manner that honors the memory of the deceased, seeking justice for their untimely loss. We understand the profound responsibility that accompanies filing such claims and offer our comprehensive support to uphold your rights.

Distribution of Wrongful Death Proceeds in Texas

Wrongful death proceeds are divided in Texas by having all of the various claims consolidated into one lawsuit. For award compensation, every surviving family member will receive a different amount based on their relationship with the decedent and the merit of their loss and suffering. 

Each family member's portion reflects not just their financial needs but also acknowledges their emotional connection to the deceased, ensuring a fair distribution aligned with Texas legal standards. This nuanced approach allows for the specific circumstances of each survivor to be taken into account during legal proceedings.

Understanding the Time Limit for Wrongful Death Lawsuits

The general statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is two years from the date of the victim's death. In certain cases, however, the statute of limitations may be as short as one year. Special rules apply to minors (minors usually have two years from the date they reach their majority to file a lawsuit) and persons with a mental disability and in cases involving fraud or intentional acts.

Proving Liability in a Wrongful Death Case

A successful wrongful death claim requires establishing that the defendant's actions directly caused the death and that they had a legal duty of care toward the deceased. You must prove the following four elements:

• Duty of care – The defendant owed a duty to the deceased (e.g., a driver has a duty to follow traffic laws).
• Breach of duty – The defendant failed to uphold that duty through negligent or intentional acts.
• Causation – The breach directly caused the death.
• Damages – The death resulted in financial and emotional harm to surviving family members.

Gathering evidence like medical reports, accident reconstruction, surveillance footage, or expert testimony is crucial. An experienced Corpus Christi wrongful death attorney coordinates this process with precision and thoroughness.

Common Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle

Our firm represents clients across a range of fatal incidents. A seasoned Corpus Christi wrongful death attorney from our office is prepared to handle:

• Fatal car and truck accidents – Caused by speeding, distracted driving, DUIs, or commercial driver negligence.
• Medical negligence – Including surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or failure to treat.
• Workplace accidents – Particularly in oilfields, construction, or industrial environments common across South Texas.
• Premises liability – Such as slip and fall accidents or drowning due to lack of supervision or safety measures.
• Defective products – Resulting from poor manufacturing, flawed design, or inadequate warnings.

How Our Corpus Christi Wrongful Death Attorney Can Assist You

When you choose to retain the services of Robert J. Gonzalez, Attorney At Law, I review the entirety of your case and determine who is at fault for the wrongs that you are facing. I go over all evidence, interview key witnesses and leave no stone unturned in finding out who is liable for the suffering you are experiencing. Each case will be treated with the utmost care and I will take the time to explain each part of the process to you and your family. 

Whether the case is settled outside of court, or if the case needs to be litigated, you can be confident that you are in good hands when you work with my office. By engaging with local resources and understanding the community dynamics in Corpus Christi and Nueces County, I can offer a more tailored strategy that reflects both legal acumen and compassionate advocacy.

To speak with an experienced Corpus Christi wrongful death attorney, give us a call at (361) 309-9332 or contact us online today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Wrongful Death Occurs?

In the immediate aftermath of a wrongful death, it’s essential to take certain steps to protect your legal rights. First, document everything you can: retain medical records, witness contact information, and any relevant incident reports. It’s equally crucial to maintain all communications related to the death, such as emails or messages, that could provide insight into the circumstances or responsibilities involved. Engaging a wrongful death attorney promptly is important to ensure that all legal parameters are navigated correctly from the start. At Robert J. Gonzalez, Attorney At Law, we assist clients through these initial stages, offering guidance on collecting and securing evidence central to their case.

How Are Wrongful Death Settlements Calculated in Corpus Christi?

Wrongful death settlements in Corpus Christi are calculated based on various factors that assess both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include tangible contributions the deceased would have made, such as income, benefits, and services. Non-economic damages cover more abstract losses, such as emotional support, companionship, and pain and suffering endured by the survivors. The process involves detailed consultations with financial experts, life planners, and medical professionals to provide a comprehensive evaluation of rightful compensation. Robert J. Gonzalez leverages his extensive legal experience to ensure a thorough assessment that aligns with the victims’ family’s specific circumstances and needs.

What Distinguishes Robert J. Gonzalez’s Approach to Wrongful Death Claims?

At Robert J. Gonzalez, our approach to handling wrongful death claims is distinguished by our deep-rooted client-centered philosophy and the unique insights Robert brings as a former Municipal Court Judge. This dual experience allows us to anticipate court dynamics and develop strategic plans tailored to each case's unique context. Unlike larger firms where clients may feel like just another file, at our practice, you receive personalized attention directly from Robert, ensuring that your concerns are addressed with the dedication they deserve. We pride ourselves on fostering an environment of trust, reliability, and steadfast support throughout the legal process, working tirelessly to secure the justice your family deserves.