It is impossible to describe the pain of losing a child, and it is something no parent should ever have to go through. If you are dealing with the wrongful death of a minor in Houston, an attorney can speak with you about the legal options available to you.
Contact our wrongful death attorneys at Williams Hart & Boundas to seek justice and get compensation for the pain you are suffering.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims
Many different situations can result in the death of a child in Houston. Some common examples include:
- Violent crimes
- Defective products
- Accidents on someone else’s property
Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.004, certain people are designated as statutory beneficiaries for wrongful death claims, and they can file a wrongful death lawsuit. Typically, the beneficiaries are the parents of the child who died. However, if the minor was married or had children of their own, the surviving spouse or children may also be able to file a claim.
Elements of a Wrongful Death Claim
To obtain a successful outcome in a Houston wrongful death claim for a minor, you must prove that the at-fault party owed a legal duty of care to your child and breached this duty through some type of misconduct. You must show that their actions directly caused your child’s death, and the death resulted in losses for you and your family.
Types of Recoverable Damages
In Houston, filing a claim for the wrongful death of a child allows families to seek different types of damages, such as:
- Mental anguish
- Punitive damages
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of companionship and relationship
- Financial losses (including lost earning capacity, services, and support your child would have provided)
Our attorneys can advise you on the compensation your family is entitled to.
What Is the Role of Legal Representation?
Filing a wrongful death claim in Houston is legally complicated and emotionally draining, especially when you have lost a child. That is why having the support and guidance of our experienced attorneys is critical.
Our skilled attorneys can examine the events surrounding your child’s death and gather important evidence, such as police reports, medical records, eyewitness accounts, and expert opinions. We are also highly knowledgeable in wrongful death laws, including statutes of limitations and court procedures. We can ensure all the legal requirements are met and your case is handled appropriately.
Most wrongful death cases are resolved through settlement negotiations rather than going to trial. Our attorneys can skillfully negotiate with insurance companies and defense lawyers to get you a fair settlement that properly compensates your family for your loss. If we cannot reach a fair settlement, our legal counsel will be ready to take the matter to court and present a strong case.
Beyond the legal aspects, we can give you compassionate guidance and support during one of the hardest times in your life. While we professionally handle the legal matters, you can focus on healing.
Statute of Limitations
Texas has a strict statute of limitations for filing wrongful death claims. Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003, you generally have two years to file a claim from the date of your child’s passing. That is why you should speak to our Houston lawyers as soon as possible; you can lose your right to compensation if you wait too long after your child’s wrongful death.
Speak to Our Houston Attorneys About the Wrongful Death of a Minor
The wrongful death of a minor in Houston is a devastating event that has serious legal and emotional consequences. If you are experiencing this tragedy, getting immediate legal help from our experienced attorneys is crucial. Call our team at Williams Hart & Boundas today.