Denver Wrongful Death Attorney

Pursuing Justice on Behalf of Victims in Denver

Losing a loved one is never easy. When a family member passes away due to the negligent or wrongful actions of another person or entity, the pain is compounded by the realization that justice may not be served. However, when a loved one dies due to the wrongful actions of another person or entity, you have the right to seek financial compensation for your loss. At Orr Law Firm, our wrongful death attorney in Denver can help you navigate the legal system and work to obtain the compensation you need to move forward.

Our approach is compassionate yet assertive. We understand that this is an emotional time for you and your family, and we are here to support you through every step of the process. From gathering evidence to negotiating settlements and representing you in court, our goal is to ensure that your rights are upheld and that justice is sought on behalf of your loved one. We are committed to providing comprehensive legal support tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

Call (303) 747-4247 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you and your family.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a civil action that can be brought against any person or entity responsible for the death of a loved one. Wrongful death claims are brought on behalf of the deceased's family members and can be filed by spouses, children, or other immediate family members.

In a wrongful death case, the family of the deceased files a lawsuit against the person or entity that caused the death. The goal of a wrongful death claim is to obtain compensation for the family's losses, including funeral expenses, medical bills, and other financial damages.

A wrongful death claim can be brought against any individual, business, or government entity responsible for the death of your loved one. Common defendants in wrongful death claims include:

• Car accident defendants
• Truck accident defendants
• Motorcycle accident defendants
• Bicycle accident defendants
• Pedestrian accident defendants
• Defective products defendants
• Nursing home abuse defendants
• Defective medical devices defendants
• Premises liability defendants
• Dog bite defendants
• Criminal defendants

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Colorado?

In Colorado, any immediate family member of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim. Immediate family members include spouses, parents, children, and siblings.

In cases where the deceased did not leave behind any immediate family members, the Colorado Wrongful Death Act allows for "next of kin" to file a claim. In some cases, this allows a deceased person's distant family members to file a claim.

Deciding to file a wrongful death claim is a deeply personal decision. Often, family dynamics and the emotional burden of loss can complicate matters. Our role is to provide clarity and support, helping you understand who is eligible to file a claim and what that process entails. We are dedicated to assisting you through the legal landscape with sensitivity and respect, ensuring that your family's rights and interests are appropriately represented.

Who Is Liable for a Wrongful Death in Denver?

In most cases, the person or entity most directly responsible for the death of your loved one is liable for the damages associated with a wrongful death claim. In some cases, multiple defendants can be held liable for the damages associated with a wrongful death claim.

Proving liability in wrongful death claims requires thorough investigation and evidence collection. Our legal team collaborates with expert witnesses, accident reconstructionists, and medical professionals to establish a strong liability case. We meticulously examine every detail, from police reports and medical records to witness testimonies, to ensure a comprehensive liability determination. Our aim is to hold wrongdoers accountable and secure the justice your family deserves.

What Types of Damages Can Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Case?

The damages you can recover in a wrongful death claim can depend on the circumstances of your case. In most cases, the family of the deceased can recover damages for:

• Funeral and burial costs
• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Loss of companionship
• Pain and suffering

In some cases, punitive damages can be recovered as well. Punitive damages are designed to punish the defendant for their actions and can be used to send a message to other potential wrongdoers.

How Wrongful Death Attorneys in Denver Guide You Through Grief & Legal Challenges

The loss of a loved one is deeply traumatic, and pursuing a wrongful death claim can add additional stress during an already overwhelming time. Wrongful death attorneys play a crucial role in managing the legal aspects so that families can focus on healing. As seasoned attorneys in Denver, we handle all the intricate details of your claim, from filing paperwork and meeting deadlines to representing you in court.

We understand that this is a deeply sensitive period for you and your family. Our approach is rooted in empathy and professionalism, ensuring that you feel supported and informed at every juncture. We communicate openly about your legal options and progress, empowering you to make decisions with confidence. Our priority is to alleviate the legal burden on your shoulders, allowing you time and space to grieve and remember your loved one.

Why Hire an Experienced Attorney?

Hiring an experienced attorney is one of the best ways to ensure that you can obtain the compensation you need to move forward after the loss of a loved one. At Orr Law Firm, our Denver wrongful death attorneys can help you seek the justice you deserve and the compensation you need. Our attorneys can handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on healing and moving forward. 

Our Denver wrongful death lawyers can help you understand your rights and can help you file a claim, whether you are an immediate family member or a next of kin. Call (303) 747-4247 or contact us online.

FAQs About Wrongful Death Claims in Denver

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Claims in Colorado?

The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Colorado is generally two years from the date of death. This timeframe is critical, as failure to file within the limit can bar you from pursuing compensation. Exceptions might apply under specific circumstances, such as if the wrongful death involved a criminal act, which may extend the period to one year from the criminal case's conclusion.

Can Non-Immediate Family Members File a Claim?

Typically, wrongful death claims in Colorado are filed by immediate family members, such as spouses, parents, or children. However, if there are no surviving immediate family members, the law allows 'next of kin' to file a claim. This provision ensures that even distant relatives can seek justice on behalf of the deceased, but it often requires clear evidence of the familial relationship.

How Are Settlements Distributed in a Wrongful Death Claim?

Settlement distributions in wrongful death claims are typically allocated based on the relationship to the deceased and the financial dependence of each claimant. Colorado law mandates that the settlement be divided among eligible family members, with specific provisions for how funds are shared between spouses and children. It's crucial to discuss this with your attorney to understand how the settlement will be distributed.

What Types of Evidence Are Necessary for a Successful Claim?

Successful wrongful death claims are supported by comprehensive evidence, which may include medical records, accident reports, eyewitness testimonies, and expert analyses. Establishing liability requires a clear link between the defendant's actions and the wrongful death, and evidence must compellingly support this link. Gathering and presenting evidence effectively is crucial to strengthening your claim.

What Financial Damages Can Be Claimed?

In Colorado, wrongful death claimants may pursue various types of financial damages, including economic losses (such as lost wages and medical expenses) and non-economic damages (such as loss of companionship and mental anguish). Each claim is unique, and the specific damages pursued should reflect the full scope of the loss suffered by the survivors, which requires careful legal and financial evaluation.