Wrongful Death
The Bison Law Firm
Wrongful Death Lawyers
BISON LAW, P.L.L.C.
At Bison Law, we know that losing a loved one unexpectedly is one of the most devastating experiences a family can endure. Families are often left overwhelmed with grief, confusion, anger, and uncertainty—while also facing financial and legal challenges.
When negligence, recklessness, or misconduct causes a wrongful death, accountability is essential. Our firm is dedicated to helping families pursue justice, protect their rights, and secure compensation that provides stability for the future.
Based in Texas and Louisiana, we represent families nationwide by partnering with trusted local counsel in other states. Our cases have been featured on NBC, CBS, FOX, CNN, ABC, and ESPN, reflecting the national impact of our work.
What Is Wrongful Death?
A wrongful death claim arises when a person’s life is cut short because of another’s negligent, reckless, or intentional act. Wrongful death cases can stem from:
- Commercial trucking accidents
- Car, motorcycle, or pedestrian accidents
- Defective products (tires, brakes, machinery, consumer goods)
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace accidents
- Unsafe premises or negligent security
- Criminal acts
Wrongful Death Under Texas Law
In Texas, a wrongful death occurs when:
- An injury causes a person’s death or the failure of a fetus to be born alive;
- The injury was caused by another person’s or entity’s wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness, or default; and
- The injured person could have filed a personal injury claim had they survived.(Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code §§ 71.001–71.003)
Who May File?
- Surviving spouse
- Children
- Parents
- If none of these file within 3 months, the executor or personal representative of the estate may bring the claim unless the family objects. (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 71.004)
Recoverable Damages in Texas
- Lost earning capacity
- Loss of care, services, support, and advice
- Mental anguish of surviving family members
- Loss of love, companionship, and comfort
- Loss of inheritance (what the deceased would have left had they lived)
Exemplary (punitive) damages may also be awarded if the death was caused by a willful act or gross negligence.
Statute of Limitations in Texas
Wrongful death lawsuits must generally be filed within two years of the death. (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003)
Wrongful Death Under Louisiana Law
Louisiana law also allows families to recover when negligence or wrongful conduct causes death. A wrongful death action may be filed by the following survivors, in order of priority:
- Spouse and children of the deceased;
- If none, the parents of the deceased;
- If none, the siblings;
- If none, the grandparents.
(La. Civ. Code Art. 2315.2)
Recoverable Damages in Louisiana
- Loss of love, affection, and companionship
- Loss of financial support and services
- Mental pain, anguish, and grief of survivors
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
Louisiana courts recognize both the economic and emotional impact of wrongful death. Families may also pursue survival actions under La. Civ. Code Art. 2315.1, which allow recovery for the pain and suffering the deceased endured before death.
Statute of Limitations in Louisiana
Louisiana has one of the shortest time limits in the nation. Families must file a wrongful death or survival action within one year of the death. (La. Civ. Code Art. 3492)
How Civil Wrongful Death Claims Differ from Criminal Cases
It’s important to understand the distinction between civil wrongful death claims and criminal homicide prosecutions:
- Civil wrongful death claims seek financial compensation for surviving families.
- Criminal cases are brought by the state and can result in prison time, fines, or probation.
- The burden of proof is lower in civil court—families must prove liability by a “preponderance of the evidence,” rather than “beyond a reasonable doubt.”
It’s possible for the same death to result in both a criminal prosecution and a civil wrongful death case.
Nationwide Wrongful Death Representation
While we are based in Texas and Louisiana, Bison Law, P.L.L.C. handles wrongful death cases nationwide. We partner with carefully selected local counsel in states where we are not licensed, while continuing to lead the litigation. This structure allows families anywhere in the U.S. to benefit from our firm’s experience and resources.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much time do I have to file a wrongful death claim?
In Texas, generally 2 years.
In Louisiana, generally 1 year.
Other states vary—some as short as one year. Contact us quickly to preserve your rights.
What damages can families recover?
Damages often include medical and funeral costs, lost earnings, loss of companionship and guidance, emotional suffering, and in some cases punitive damages.
Can you handle my case if I live outside Texas or Louisiana?
Yes. We represent families nationwide, litigating the case with our attorney team while partnering with local counsel where necessary.
How much does it cost to hire your firm?
We work on a contingency fee basis. Families owe us nothing unless we secure compensation.
Contact Bison Law Today
If your family has lost a loved one due to negligence, recklessness, or misconduct, you don’t have to face the legal and financial storm alone. At Bison Law, P.L.L.C., we provide the strength, compassion, and relentless advocacy families need.
Call Bison Law today for a free consultation.
We represent families in Texas, Louisiana, and nationwide wrongful death cases.
