Seeking Justice On Behalf Of Families Who Have Lost Loved Ones
The loss of a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences a person can go through. When that loss is caused by the negligence or wrongful actions of another person or entity, the pain and sense of injustice can be even greater. If you are dealing with the wrongful death of a family member, you may be struggling with a range of emotions and financial challenges. You may also be wondering what steps you can take to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.
At Ives & Flores, P.A., our team of experienced attorneys is here to help. We understand that no amount of legal action can bring back your loved one, but pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide some measure of justice and help you and your family move forward.
What is a wrongful death claim?
A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit that is brought by the surviving family members of someone who has died due to the negligent or wrongful actions of another person or entity. This type of claim can be filed in cases where the victim’s death was caused by a car accident, medical malpractice, defective product, or any other type of accident or incident that was the result of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing.
At Ives & Flores, P.A., we specialize in wrongful death actions related to civil rights violations. These include cases such as when:
- The police kill a person through excessive force, failing to summon emergency health care, or a high-speed chase.
- A person is killed at school, at a university, while training in the military.
- When a person is killed due to an ineffective police response.
- When a person commits suicide as a result of bullying, sexual abuse, or other acts or failures to act by state or local governmental organizations.
- When a person is killed in jail or prison.
- When a person is victimized by human trafficking.
Who can bring a wrongful death claim?
New Mexico’s Wrongful Death Act provides that a wrongful death claim must be brought by a “personal representative,” who is appointed by the court. But regardless of who the personal representative is, the beneficiaries are set by the statue. Under the Wrongful Death Act, any damages awarded in the lawsuit go the deceased’s spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, or siblings, depending on the circumstances.
What damages can be recovered in a wrongful death claim?
The damages that can be recovered in a wrongful death claim will depend on the specific circumstances of the case. Some common types of damages that may be recovered include:
- Medical expenses incurred before the victim’s death
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of income and benefits the victim would have provided to the family
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and support
- Pain and suffering experienced by the victim prior to their death
An experienced wrongful death attorney will be able to help you get a personal representative appointed by the court and advise you on the damages that may be available in your case.
How can Ives & Flores, P.A. help with my wrongful death claim?
At Ives & Flores, P.A., we have extensive experience handling wrongful death claims. We understand the legal process and the challenges that our clients are facing. We work closely with our clients to ensure that they receive the support and representation they need to pursue a successful claim.
If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, we encourage you to complete our online form to learn more about your legal options. Our attorneys are here to listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you determine the best course of action. Call the firm at 505-364-3858.