Las Vegas Wrongful Death Attorneys

Fighting for Those Who Have Lost Loved Ones Due to Negligence in Las Vegas

Losing a loved one in an accident can turn you and your family's life upside down. You may be experiencing a wide range of powerful emotions, from deep sadness to anger to numbness. Unfortunately, many families feel that they can't afford to grieve when facing a mountain of accident-related debt. At such a difficult time, you should not have to worry about the legal & financial ramifications of your loss.

At Christiansen Trial Lawyers, our trial lawyers aggressively pursue wrongful death claims while providing compassionate representation and counsel to our clients. Nothing can bring your loved one back. However, you are entitled to seek financial compensation to secure your future and the future of those left behind. Since 1995, our wrongful death lawyers have been proud to serve members of our community & tourists in Las Vegas & throughout Nevada.

Call (702) 357-9977 to speak with a caring Las Vegas wrongful death lawyer in your time of need, or fill out our online form. We offer our legal services in English and Spanish and strive to be accessible so you can contact us at any time.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

Causes of Wrongful Death Incidents

Losing a loved one is always an emotional and painful experience, but it can be even tougher to process when your loved one has been killed suddenly in an accident. Though some accidents occur randomly and aren’t anyone’s fault, investigating can determine whether an individual or entity was responsible for their death. Our wrongful death attorney in Las Vegas works with various professionals, from medical experts to reconstructionists, to determine the cause of death and gather the evidence needed to hold at-fault parties responsible.

Our lawyers have successfully pursued wrongful death claims for our clients in cases involving:

• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Our team can help you after your loved one has been killed by a drunk driver, fatigued trucker, or defective auto parts. Motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians are more likely to be killed in these types of accidents because they’re the most vulnerable and aren’t protected by vehicle safety features like seat belts.
• Premises Liability: Various dangerous property conditions can lead to falls resulting in head or back injuries, fatal assaults, or being struck by heavy equipment or machinery. In these cases, the property owner can be held responsible for damages your family has accrued.
• Defective & Dangerous Products: Products are supposed to be safe to purchase & use after approval, but sometimes defects can slip by undetected. Unfortunately, defective auto parts frequently result in death when they contribute to car crashes. Examples of auto defects include faulty brakes, headlights, and airbags.

People can file wrongful death claims when their loved one has been killed in an accident, but they can also file if their loved one initially survived but passed away from their injuries. If your loved one had begun a personal injury claim at the time of their death, you can open a wrongful death claim. We understand the devastation your loss has caused. Our trial lawyers make sure the court and those responsible for your loss know, too.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Nevada?

Each state has its own laws dictating who can legally file a wrongful death claim on behalf of their loved one. Under Nevada law, “heirs & personal representatives” can step forward with a claim. If your loved one had an estate plan, it’s likely they appointed a personal representative – this individual can legally take action.

Other parties entitled to seek financial compensation include:

• The surviving spouse or partner
• Children of the deceased
• Parents of the deceased if there is no surviving spouse or children

Nevada recognizes the financial impact a wrongful death can have on family members and offers provisions for others who can prove financial dependence on the deceased. This ensures that beyond the immediate family, those truly affected by the loss can seek legal recourse. These others can include stepchildren, stepparents, and children being supported by the deceased.

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Las Vegas

Living in Las Vegas, we understand the unique challenges our community faces. The bustling streets, vibrant nightlife, and constant influx of tourists can sometimes lead to unforeseen accidents. When a loved one is lost due to negligence, it’s not just a personal tragedy but a community concern. The emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with local entities like the Clark County Coroner's Office or navigating the legal landscape in Nevada.

At Christiansen Trial Lawyers, we are deeply familiar with the local resources and government entities that can play a role in wrongful death cases. While we do not partner directly with these entities, we understand their processes and how they can impact your case. For instance, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department often conducts thorough investigations into fatal accidents, and their reports can be crucial in building a strong wrongful death claim.

Guiding Clients Through Common Wrongful Death Challenges

One of the significant pain points for Las Vegas residents is the high rate of motor vehicle accidents, often exacerbated by the city’s 24/7 lifestyle. Whether it’s a collision on the busy Las Vegas Strip or an incident in a quieter residential area, the aftermath can be devastating. Our team is well-versed in handling these local nuances and can guide you through the complexities of filing a wrongful death claim in Las Vegas.

Our commitment to the Las Vegas community goes beyond legal representation. We strive to provide compassionate support and practical advice tailored to the specific needs of our clients. Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a tragic accident or seeking justice for a loved one, Christiansen Trial Lawyers can help you every step of the way.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim: Process & Timeframes in Nevada

In Nevada, wrongful death claims must be filed within a two-year statute of limitations from the date of the deceased's passing. This timeline is critical as missing it can result in the forfeiture of the right to seek justice and compensation. It's essential to act swiftly to preserve evidence, gather witness statements, and initiate legal proceedings efficiently.

The filing process involves several key steps such as gathering comprehensive documentation, proving negligence, and demonstrating the financial and emotional impact on surviving family members. Our skilled wrongful death lawyers in Las Vegas will work closely with you to verify that all necessary information is compiled and presented effectively. We understand the intricacies of Nevada's legal system and are committed to navigating it with you to pursue a favorable outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions