Las Cruces Wrongful Death Attorney

At the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz, we know how devastating an unexpected death can be for a family. If negligence caused your loved one's passing, you might be entitled to compensation to help support those left behind and bring closure during this painful time. Our Las Cruces wrongful death lawyer is here to fight for justice on behalf of you and your family.

We know how overwhelming the prospect of dealing with a lawsuit during this time can be. However, filing a wrongful death claim may not only be in your best interest but may also help prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. 

We help those needing an attorney in Las Cruces, Carlsbad, Hobbs, Albuquerque, and Clovis. 

Losing a loved one in an accident is devastating; our law firm is here for you. Call our Las Cruces wrongful death lawyer to discuss your legal options today. 

FREE CONSULTATION - NO UPFRONT FEES - ONLY PAY IF AND WHEN YOU WIN - 25% CONTINGENCY FEE WHEN A CASE IS SETTLED WITHOUT A LAWSUIT BEING FILED FOR ALL PERSONAL INJURY CASES

What Is Wrongful Death?

Wrongful death is a legal term used to describe when a person dies due to the wrongful conduct of another through either a negligent or intentional act. These cases are filed against the at-fault parties who may be found legally liable for the death of your loved one. Liability in wrongful death cases is based on whether the defendant had some responsibility for the death and can be determined based on several factors.

In New Mexico, if a wrongful death lawsuit is filed, it must happen within three years of the date of death; otherwise, it may be too late to recover compensation from the responsible party. It's important to contact an experienced wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible following your loved one's passing in order to preserve their rights under this statute of limitations period.

Accidents that may result in wrongful death:

• Car accidents
• Truck accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• Boat accidents
• Construction accidents
• Heavy machinery accidents
• Electrocution accidents
• Oil field accidents
• Workplace accidents

Malfunctioning and defective equipment and parts are also frequently responsible for wrongful death accidents. Whether it’s a truck part or a piece of machinery on a construction site, or even a defective child’s toy, losing a loved one due to a defective product is shocking and heartbreaking. These types of accidents fall under product liability and can be incredibly complex. 

If you are in a situation like this, it is important to work with an attorney familiar with handling these types of wrongful death cases, like ours at the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz.

Recovering Compensation After Losing a Loved One

In New Mexico, a wrongful death claim must be filed by the deceased individual's personal representative (also known as their "executor"). Sometimes this is a close surviving family member, but not always. Typically, the personal representative is whoever the deceased has named executor of their estate. However, in cases where the deceased person has no estate plan or will, the court will appoint a personal representative.

In a wrongful death case, compensation may be sought for:

• Medical costs
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship
• Emotional and psychological trauma

When a suit is successfully resolved, damages will be ordered to be paid by the defendant to the deceased person's beneficiaries or their estate. While the personal representative must be the one to file the lawsuit, they are not necessarily included as a beneficiary. Compensation is generally awarded to the deceased's surviving spouse, children, and/or grandchildren. In some cases, such as when the deceased person is under 18 or has no spouse or children, their parents or siblings will be awarded compensation.

We Are Here for You & Your Family

At the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz, we understand that what matters most right now is getting through these difficult times with care and compassion – let us take it from here and give your loved ones their due justice. From identifying liable parties to managing your case through to its resolution, we have the skill, experience, and resources to help you and your family.

We serve across New Mexico, including Las Cruces, Carlsbad, Hobbs, Albuquerque, and Clovis.

Please request a free case evaluation with our Las Cruces wrongful death lawyer today. Call our law firm at (575) 216-5414 or contact us online.

FREE CONSULTATION - NO UPFRONT FEES - ONLY PAY IF AND WHEN YOU WIN - 25% CONTINGENCY FEE WHEN A CASE IS SETTLED WITHOUT A LAWSUIT BEING FILED FOR ALL PERSONAL INJURY CASES