Las Vegas Wrongful Death Attorney

Understanding What Constitutes a Wrongful Death

Wrongful death is legally defined as “the taking of an individual’s life resulting from the willful or negligent act of another person or persons.” As this definition suggests, wrongful death encompasses a broad range of circumstances where someone’s actions—or inactions—result in the loss of another person’s life.

Examples of situations that may lead to a wrongful death claim include:

• Medical malpractice resulting in death
• Car accidents caused by negligence
• Failure to secure hazardous areas, such as unfenced backyard swimming pools
• Criminal behavior, such as assault or murder
• Drunk or reckless driving leading to a fatal collision
• Prescription errors causing fatal medical complications
• Unprotected stairs or hazardous building conditions
• Poorly lit common areas that create safety risks
• Substandard property maintenance resulting in fatal injuries
• Defective products that cause fatal accidents

The defendant’s conduct in these cases can vary from deliberate acts, such as murder, to negligence, such as failing to address safety hazards. Regardless of the specific circumstances, a wrongful death claim aims to hold the responsible party accountable and provide justice and compensation for the surviving family members.

Unique Aspects of Nevada’s Wrongful Death Statute

Wrongful death laws vary from state to state, and Nevada has its own unique aspects that may impact your case. Our experienced wrongful death attorneys can guide you through these specifics to help you understand your rights and legal options.

In Nevada, there are two main categories of plaintiffs eligible to file a wrongful death claim:

1. The Deceased’s Estate – This category allows claims to be filed on behalf of the deceased person’s estate to recover “special damages.” These damages typically include medical bills, funeral expenses, and other financial losses incurred due to the death.
2. Heirs Under Nevada’s Laws of Intestate Succession – This category includes individuals who would inherit under Nevada’s intestate succession laws, such as spouses, children, and other close relatives.

It’s important to note that certain individuals, even if named as beneficiaries in the deceased’s will, cannot file wrongful death claims in Nevada. This includes unmarried partners, fiancées, foster children, and stepchildren.

Understanding these nuances is crucial for pursuing a wrongful death case, and our team is here to provide the clarity and support you need during this difficult time.

The Value of a Life: Navigating the Challenges of Wrongful Death Claims

Placing a “cost” or “price” on a human life is a concept that feels inherently offensive to many of us. Yet, when pursuing wrongful death claims, one of the most challenging tasks is determining the monetary value of a lost loved one’s life.

At the Drummond Law Firm, we work within the laws as they exist today, always with the goal of serving the survivors and securing the best possible settlement for their future. While financial compensation can never erase your grief, it can provide stability during difficult times. Compensation for a deceased spouse’s lost income, medical expenses, or pain and suffering can help ease the financial burdens on you and your family, allowing you to focus on healing. It may also open doors for your children as they pursue education and prepare for brighter futures.