Wrongful Death

Louisiana Wrongful Death Lawyers

If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence or intentional act of another, we at Broussard & Hart, L.L.C., extend our sincere sympathy. During this emotionally difficult time you will be called on to make decisions that will have a lasting impact on your economic welfare.

It is important that, in order to take care of yourself and your family, you take measures to recover all compensation you are entitled to under Louisiana law, and seek legal advice before accepting any settlement offer. If you would like to discuss a possible wrongful death claim with one of our attorneys, please contact our Lake Charles office and arrange a free and confidential consultation. We assure you we will handle the discussion with sensitivity.

What is "wrongful death" under Louisiana law?

Wrongful death may be caused by the action of someone or by their failure to act (neglect). This is a civil action claim, rather than a criminal action. Since the person killed (the decedent) cannot file suit or collect damages, it is the family or representatives of the estate that do so. Our firm is prepared to handle wrongful death lawsuits resulting from a wide range of causes, involving the following:

• 18-wheeler accidents
• Car accidents
• Medical malpractice
• Maritime accidents
• Aircraft accidents

What compensation is available to survivors?

Under a wrongful death suit family members or the estate are entitled to compensation for economic and emotional losses, including medical bills and funeral expenses, lost wages and benefits, loss of companionship, and emotional pain and suffering. When representing a client in a wrongful death lawsuit our lawyers work with economists, psychologists, and accountants to present a strong claim to a jury or insurance adjuster on behalf of our client.

What are punitive damages?

Punitive damages are intended to punish the party responsible for the death. Under Louisiana law, punitive damages are available in only very limited circumstances, including automobile accidents caused by drunk drivers. Punitive damages may also be available to families of seamen, where federal general maritime law applies.

What does the lawyer need to prove?

The lawyer in a wrongful death case must prove that the defendant's conduct was the cause of the death, and that the death would not have occurred without the defendant's act, even if the death occurred long after the accident or assault. The attorney must also demonstrate the value of the claim, a difficult task which requires describing love and companionship in monetary terms, a claim requiring sensitivity and persuasiveness.

Our firm serves clients throughout Southwest Louisiana from our Calcasieu Parish offices. If you would like to discuss a wrongful death lawsuit with one of our lawyers, please call 337-439-2450 (Toll Free: 866-281-4774) or e-mail our Lake Charles office to arrange a free and confidential consultation. We will respond quickly to your inquiry.