Losing a loved one is one of the most difficult challenges anyone can face, and if your loss was caused by someone else’s negligent or intentional actions, the sense of injustice can feel overwhelming. At Matulis Law Firm, we understand that no outcome can fully heal the pain of such a loss. However, we are here to support you and guide you through the process of seeking justice and holding those responsible accountable. Every wrongful death case is personal to us because we know how deeply it impacts you and your family’s future. Serving clients across Texas, our firm is committed to providing compassionate, skilled legal representation you can trust.
What Qualifies as a Wrongful Death in Texas?
Under Texas law, a wrongful death occurs when an individual loses their life due to the recklessness, negligence, or intentional actions of another. Wrongful death claims are civil cases brought to seek compensation for the surviving family members, rather than pursuing criminal charges against the responsible party. They aim to provide financial relief and justice for the immense personal loss suffered.
If your loved one passed due to another person’s actions, whether from a tragic accident or a deliberate act, the attorneys at Matulis Law Firm are ready to fight for you. While nothing can bring your loved one back, we will work tirelessly to help secure the financial support you and your family need during this difficult time.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases in Galveston County
Wrongful death cases can arise from a wide range of circumstances. Some of the most common causes include:
- Car accidents, often involving drunk driving, texting, or other distracted driving
- Medical malpractice, such as misdiagnosis or surgical errors
- Workplace accidents, particularly in high-risk industries
- Defective products or dangerous prescription drugs
- Drowning incidents, a frequent risk in Galveston due to its many pools, beaches, and water attractions
- Truck accidents, resulting from driver fatigue or failure to follow safety regulations
- Offshore accidents, which can occur in Texas’s vital maritime industries
If you’ve lost a loved one due to any of the above causes, Matulis Law Firm can provide the necessary dedication needed to pursue a wrongful death claim.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?
Losing someone you love is incredibly painful, and dealing with the legal aftermath can feel overwhelming. In Texas, if you believe your loved one's death was caused by someone else's negligence, you might be wondering who can legally seek justice through a wrongful death claim.
Texas law outlines specific individuals who have the right to file such a claim. These include:
- Spouses: If you were married to the deceased, you have the right to file.
- Children: This includes children of all ages, whether they were adopted or biological.
- Parents: Both biological and adoptive parents can file a claim.
- Other legally dependent family members: If you were financially dependent on the deceased, you may also be eligible.
- The executor or administrator of the deceased's estate: The person responsible for managing the deceased's affairs can also file a claim.
It's important to know that, sadly, Texas law doesn't currently recognize unmarried long-term partners as eligible to file a wrongful death claim, even if your relationship was very close. However, if you and your unmarried partner shared children, you can file a claim on behalf of your children.
Navigating these legal details can be confusing, especially during a time of grief. If you're unsure whether you qualify to file a wrongful death claim, please know that you're not alone. The Matulis Law Firm is here to help clarify your options and ensure that any potential claim is pursued correctly. We want to support you in seeking the justice your loved one deserves.
Recovering Compensation in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
While no compensation can fully measure the loss of a loved one, a successful wrongful death claim seeks to provide some financial and emotional relief. Potential damages include:
- Medical expenses leading up to the loved one’s death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost household income and financial support
- Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Punitive damages, if the case involves gross negligence or willful misconduct
Our wrongful death attorneys in Galveston, Texas, understand the complexities of calculating these damages. We’ll build a thorough case to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.
How Our Galveston County Wrongful Death Lawyers Can Help
Pursuing a wrongful death case is not just about financial recovery; it’s about bringing accountability and justice to light. At Matulis Law Firm, we walk alongside you in this fight, handling every step of the legal process so you can focus on healing. Our compassionate approach and strong advocacy help families like yours seek both answers and closure.
When you partner with our firm, we will:
- Investigate the circumstances of your loved one’s death
- Gather evidence that supports your claim
- Identify all liable parties, including individuals, companies, or entities
- Collaborate with medical and financial experts to calculate damages
- Guide you through the legal system while keeping your needs and wishes at the forefront
We understand that this process is deeply personal, and we are dedicated to handling your case with the utmost sensitivity and respect. We are here to help you seek answers, closure, and the justice your loved one deserves.
The Texas Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Cases
Generally, you have two years from the date of your loved one's passing to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, there are situations where this timeframe might be extended, such as:
- The Discovery Rule: If the cause of death wasn't immediately apparent, such as with medical malpractice or toxic exposure, the clock might start ticking when the negligence or harm is discovered.
- Government Involvement: Cases involving government entities often have unique legal requirements and timelines.
- Vulnerable Victims: In some instances, such as if a minor loses a parent, they may be required to seek compensation once they become legal age. If individuals with disabilities are seeking compensation for the death of their loved one, there may be extended timeframes as well.
- Personal Injury: If you were also injured in the incident, your own recovery and potential incapacitation might allow for more time to file.
Failing to meet these deadlines can unfortunately result in the dismissal of your case, adding further emotional and financial strain during an already challenging time.
At Matulis Law Firm, we understand that this isn't just a legal matter; it's deeply personal. We're here to provide compassionate guidance and support, helping you understand your rights and options. We believe in fighting for justice and fair compensation, allowing you to focus on healing and remembering your loved one. We are here to help you through this difficult time.
Holding Negligent Parties Accountable for Your Loss
When a loved one’s life is cut short due to negligence, justice must prevail. Holding the responsible parties accountable not only helps current victims but could prevent future tragedies by forcing individuals or companies to address dangerous practices. Our team at Matulis Law Firm has the experience and dedication to uncover the truth and pursue justice on your behalf.
Why Choose Matulis Law Firm for Your Wrongful Death Case?
At Matulis Law Firm, we don’t treat wrongful death cases as just another file in our caseload. To us, they’re deeply personal. You’ve already experienced profound loss; we’re here to advocate for you with empathy, professionalism, and unwavering dedication. With our team based in Galveston, Texas, we are proud to serve the local community and families across the state. Our firm combines years of legal experience with a personal commitment to protecting your family’s future and fighting for justice.
Get a Free Consultation with a Wrongful Death Attorney Today
If you’ve lost a loved one in a wrongful death case, you don’t have to carry the burden alone. Contact Matulis Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll take the time to listen to your story, explain your legal options, and develop a strategy to seek the justice and compensation you deserve. When tragedy strikes, we’re here to stand by your side because your case is personal to us.
