Alabama Wrongful Death Lawyer

Start Your Free Case Review or Call (334) 230-7986

Losing a family member because of someone else's carelessness is devastating, and Alabama's wrongful-death law has distinctive rules for who may file and what damages may be recovered. This office helps families across Selma, Montgomery, and the Black Belt understand their rights and hold the responsible party accountable.

Who can bring a wrongful death claim in Alabama?

For a death governed by Alabama Code § 6-5-410, the claim is brought by the deceased person's duly appointed personal representative. A separate statute, § 6-5-391, addresses the wrongful death of a minor child and may allow a parent to file. Who has authority should be checked against the family's circumstances before a lawsuit is filed. Recovery under § 6-5-410 is distributed under Alabama's distribution rules and is not used to pay the deceased person's debts.

What makes Alabama wrongful death law unusual?

Alabama wrongful-death damages under § 6-5-410 are punitive: they are intended to punish and deter wrongful conduct. They are not calculated as reimbursement for the family's lost income, funeral expenses, or grief. The law governing a particular death should be reviewed before assuming which claims or remedies apply.

What is the deadline for a wrongful death case?

Alabama Code §§ 6-5-410(d) and 6-2-38(a) generally require a wrongful-death action to be commenced within two years after death. Identifying the correct person to file and preserving evidence can take time, so seek a case-specific deadline review promptly.

What kinds of cases lead to a wrongful death claim?

Fatal car and truck wrecks, and other deaths caused by another party's negligence or worse, can support a wrongful death claim. The question is whether someone else's wrongful conduct caused the death.

What should a family do after a loss?

Preserve what you can, keep records and any evidence, and speak with a lawyer before dealing with an insurer, because the early steps, including having a personal representative appointed, shape the case. A conversation is free and there is no obligation.

Wrongful-death help across West Alabama and the River Region

The firm evaluates wrongful-death matters arising in Dallas County, Wilcox County, Perry County, Lowndes County, Bullock County, Montgomery County, Pike County, and Elmore County. Visit the Alabama locations hub for local court and community information.

Frequently asked questions

Who receives the money in an Alabama wrongful death case? For a § 6-5-410 claim, recovery follows Alabama's distribution rules and is not used to pay the deceased person's debts. A minor-child claim may require a different analysis.

How long do we have to file? Generally two years after death under Alabama Code §§ 6-5-410(d) and 6-2-38(a). The proper claimant and deadline should be reviewed promptly.

How much does a wrongful death lawyer cost? A consultation is free. Every case is different, and the office will explain how fees work when you call. Call (334) 230-7986.

A case review is free. Call (334) 230-7986 or start your free case review online. Do not send confidential or highly sensitive information through the online form; submitting it does not create an attorney-client relationship.

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