Wrongful Death

Billings Wrongful Death Attorneys

Wrongful Death Claims in Montana

Every family responds to the loss of a loved one in its own way. In some families, members can have widely differing responses. Many people also find that their feelings and perspectives about the death change as they go through their own adjustment process.

At Edwards & Culver, we think it's important to let families move through the stages of a hard transition at their own pace and in their own ways, but at the same time, let our team take on all the stress so you and your family can focus on recovering.

Types of Wrongful Death Claims

A wrongful death suit might arise out of a number of circumstances. Our job is to protect your legal interests and the value of your claims while your family concentrates on taking care of each other. Because there are several different types of wrongful death claims, contact our team of expert Billings wrongful death attorneys for professional handling of these types of cases.

At Edwards & Culver, our legal team has handled all types of wrongful death litigation, including:

As well as representing clients throughout Montana in wrongful death litigation, our lawyers also pursue claims on behalf of families in other states who lost their loved one in a Montana accident.

What Types of Damages Can Be Recovered?

Navigating life after the wrongful death of a loved one can be challenging. One does not often know what to do or where to start. It is likely that they are bombarded with many emotions as they see the bills piling up. A wrongful death suit allows surviving loved ones to hold negligent parties accountable and recover compensation for their damages.

Common wrongful death damages include:

Loss of income
Loss of parental guidance
Loss of companionship
Funeral expenses
Medical bills and other similar losses

Additionally, a loved one could seek punitive damages. This occurs when serious or malicious wrongdoings caused the death of the decedent. These damages are used to further punish the liable party.

It is difficult to accept that a loved one was lost in a fatal accident, and it is clear that no amount of money will bring them back; however, it is important to understand that surviving loved ones have rights. A wrongful death suit is a real opportunity to not only hold a negligent party accountable but also offset the financial losses caused by the loss of a loved one. Give us a call today for professional legal help from our Billings wrongful death lawyers.

To find out more about our approach to client service in fatal accident and negligence cases, contact us at (406) 215-4735 for a free consultation about your legal options.

Wrongful Death Cases Involving Children

Some accidents may include bystanders and children. For example, the victims of vehicle accidents may include the driver, passenger, as well as people who may have been walking or children who were playing on the side of the road. They are casualties due to other people's negligence. In particular, children tend to become victims because it is almost impossible for them to defend themselves against vehicles. In many cases, parents and other family members take the legal route to ensure that the person responsible for such a wrongful death is punished.

What Amount of Compensation Should Be Paid?

Filing such a lawsuit brings up the question of damages and how much should be paid. While compensation does not lessen the family's pain and suffering, it is a mechanism aimed at minimizing any financial stress that the family may experience. However, in the case of children, this becomes a complicated issue since children generally do not contribute to their family's income.

Compared to adults, the financial contribution of the child varies depending on age. In certain states, wrongful death claims may even be filed on behalf of an unborn child. In other cases, a live birth is a requirement to consider such an action. Again, the case of a 10-year-old is vastly different from that of a much older teenager because the teenager is more likely to contribute financially and at a sooner time.

Thus, although juries may sometimes reference such guides as work-life expectancy tables, it is unlikely that parents may receive any significant amount in damages for the wrongful death of their child. There may be extraordinary circumstances or cases where an exception is made, but for the most part, the less plausible financial impact makes jury members hesitant to decide in that direction.

If Your child is Involved in a Wrongful Death Call Us today

At Edwards & Culver, our attorneys have more than 100 years of experience in personal injury. We've won more than half a billion in verdicts and settlements for our clients and we are devoted to fighting for you and your family. We have seen a multitude of wrongful death cases during our time and we know how difficult to is for families to cope after the loss of a loved one, especially a child during an accident. Let our seasoned wrongful death lawyers in Billings help -- we are ready to listen to your story and answer your questions during a consultation and we are prepared to fight for you. Do not hesitate to reach out today.

Contact Edwards & Culver online or call (406) 215-4735 for a consultation.

What Sets Edwards & Culver Apart?

Over 100 Years of Legal Experience
More than $150 Million Recovered in the Last Decade
Award-Winning and Nationally Recognized Legal Team
We Offer Free Initial Case Evaluations and Work on a Contingency Fee Basis

If you don't seek legal advice in time to allow for the effective investigation and presentation of wrongful death claims in negligence cases, you might lose important rights. Our skilled attorneys will help you assess the matter. By conducting an investigation, collecting evidence, and obtaining expert testimony, our goal is to meet your needs the most effective way possible.

Contact Experienced Legal Counsel Today!

Contact our office in Billings to learn how our attorneys work with families to protect their rights and future security while standing by as a resource for all the questions and needs that might develop in the aftermath of an accidental death. We offer free consultations, and we bring a 30-year tradition of client service to bear on behalf of Montana families.

Testimonials

read How We've Helped Past Clients

“We can’t thank you enough for all the work you did for us. What you did for us was above and beyond, and it took a lot of stress off us.”
- J. & D. F.
“The worst day of my life was quickly followed by the best one … the day my husband called your office to represent us. The day that Cliff, John, and Chris came to the house, I had a huge weight lifted.”
- B.S.
“You are a gift to my life. Thanks for everything.”
- M.C.