Wrongful Death Lawyers with Experience and Compassion Representing Clients in the Greater New Orleans Area and Statewide
Few events in life are as devastating as unexpectedly losing someone you love. That grief is all the more difficult if their death was the result of someone else’s negligence, and therefore, preventable. In wrongful death situations, there is no amount of money that will make up for the loss of a life. However, The Truitt Law Firm will work tirelessly to help you find answers, push for accountability, and secure fair financial compensation.
The time limit to bring a wrongful death suit in the state of Louisiana is short. Under Louisiana law, a claim of this type generally must be brought within 12 months of the victim’s death. Our firm has been litigating personal injury and wrongful death cases across Louisiana for decades. Because we have vast experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants, we can anticipate opposing counsel's arguments. This often allows us to resolve cases quickly and favorably through negotiation or trial, allowing you to move forward with your recovery.
Families in and around Covington often have questions about where their case will be heard and how the local courts operate. Wrongful death claims may be filed in the appropriate district court for St. Tammany Parish, and we are familiar with the procedures and expectations of judges and court staff in this region. When you work with a wrongful death attorney in Covington, we guide you step by step through filing requirements, communicating with insurers, and preparing for hearings so you are never left wondering what comes next.
With experience representing both plaintiffs and defendants, our team offers rare, strategic perspective from both sides of the courtroom.
Nearly 200 Trials Handled
We've taken hundreds of cases to verdict, giving us the battle-tested experience to handle high-stakes litigation with confidence.
Embracing Innovation
We leverage modern-day solutions; while legacy firms tiptoe around tech, we’re using it to sharpen our edge and better serve our clients.
Inclusive by Design
We've built a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve, highlighting women and culturally diverse professionals in leadership.
Dignified Representation for Either Plaintiffs or Defendants
Emotions run high in wrongful death lawsuits, and understandably so. Families have lost someone they love and seek accountability. When our wrongful death attorneys represent you as a plaintiff, we will work to convey just how important the victim was to you and others, and what the full impacts of their loss will be.
Conversely, if we represent you as a defendant or an insurance company, we will never minimize the family’s loss or trivialize their attempts at seeking accountability. Instead, we will focus on the facts of the case, including demonstrating, in some cases, that the victim’s death could be attributed to other causes or problems. No matter which side of the courtroom we are on, we always strive to represent our clients and to conduct ourselves with dignity and respect for all involved in the legal process.
Our ability to see a case from both perspectives often helps us anticipate the arguments the other side may raise and prepare us for those challenges in advance. When a family brings a claim, we carefully gather testimony, records, and expert input to show the full impact of the loss on day-to-day life. When we defend a business, individual, or insurer, we perform the same thorough review of the evidence to ensure the claim is evaluated fairly. This balanced approach is particularly valuable in close-knit communities like Covington, where wrongful death disputes can affect workplaces, neighborhoods, and long-standing relationships.
A Basic Overview of Wrongful Death Claims
Personal injury lawsuits are well understood by the general public, but wrongful death matters may not be. An easy way to think about a wrongful death claim is as a personal injury case with injuries that result in death. Nearly any negligent act or intentional action that would warrant a personal injury suit if the victim had survived would also qualify for wrongful death litigation if the victim died due to their injuries.
The other major difference is who serves as the plaintiff. Because the victim didn’t survive, a representative brings the case on their behalf. In Louisiana, the victim’s surviving family members are the only people who can bring a wrongful death action. In order of allowance, those family members are a spouse and/or children, surviving parents, surviving siblings, and surviving grandparents. These family members may be related to the victim by blood or adoption.
Wrongful death claims can arise from a wide range of events, including motor vehicle crashes, workplace incidents, dangerous property conditions, or medical care that failed to meet accepted standards. Each scenario involves its own rules of evidence and potential defenses, which is why careful investigation and timely action are so important. When you consult with a wrongful death lawyer Covington families turn to for guidance, we review how the death occurred, identify all potentially responsible parties, and explain how Louisiana law applies to your situation so you can make informed decisions about moving forward.
Types of Compensation Available in Wrongful Death Cases
Surviving loved ones of a person who has died due to the negligence of another may file a wrongful death claim to seek financial compensation for their loss.
The types of losses you can seek compensation for include:
Future lost salary of the deceased. Families can recover compensation for the income and financial support their loved one would have provided throughout their expected working years, calculated based on earning capacity, career trajectory, and life expectancy.
Lost companionship. This compensation addresses the profound emotional loss of the deceased person's love, guidance, companionship, and the unique relationship they shared with surviving family members.
Medical bills. Families can seek reimbursement for all medical expenses incurred as a result of the incident that led to their loved one's death, including emergency treatment, hospital stays, and end-of-life care.
Funeral expenses. Recovery includes costs associated with burial or cremation services, funeral ceremonies, memorial services, and other related expenses that families must bear during an already difficult time.
Vehicle damage and replacement. When wrongful death results from a vehicle accident, families can recover compensation for property damage to their loved one's vehicle and the cost of replacement transportation.
Our attorneys will carefully analyze the details of your case to assess all possible damages. Our goal is to maximize your compensation while holding the at-fault party legally liable.
What To Expect When You Start A Wrongful Death Case
Many families are unsure what the legal process will actually look like when they are already coping with grief and sudden change. In an initial consultation, we listen to your story, answer questions about Louisiana’s one-year deadline, and review any documents or information you already have, such as police reports or medical records. From there, we outline the next steps in plain language so you understand the likely path your case will follow, including investigation, communication with insurance companies, and potential filing in the appropriate St. Tammany Parish court if settlement talks do not resolve the claim.
As your case moves forward, we stay in close contact to keep you updated on important developments and decisions. We may work with medical professionals, economists, and other qualified witnesses to help document both the financial and human impact of your loss. Throughout negotiations or, if necessary, trial, we prepare you for each hearing or meeting, so you know what to expect and can focus on your family. Our goal is to shoulder the legal burdens for you while pursuing accountability through the civil justice system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Covington?
In Kentucky, wrongful death claims are typically filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate on behalf of surviving family members. Eligible beneficiaries may include a spouse, children, or parents, depending on the circumstances.
What types of damages are available in a wrongful death case?
Damages may include funeral and burial costs, medical expenses related to the final injury or illness, lost income and benefits, and compensation for loss of companionship and emotional suffering.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Covington?
Strict deadlines apply. In many cases, the statute of limitations is one year from the appointment of the estate’s representative. Delays can permanently bar a claim, so acting quickly matters.
Do I need proof that negligence caused the death?
Yes. A successful wrongful death claim must show that another party’s careless or wrongful actions caused or contributed to the death. This often involves reviewing records, reports, and timelines tied to the incident.
Can a wrongful death claim be resolved without going to trial?
Many cases settle through negotiation, but only after a strong claim is built and liability is clear. If insurers refuse to be fair, litigation may be necessary to pursue full compensation.
Take action for your family’s future in Covington
After a sudden loss, legal decisions can feel overwhelming, but waiting can cost your family leverage and options. Moving forward now helps preserve records, clarify liability, and protect your right to compensation that can provide stability and accountability during an incredibly difficult time.
Do not wait. Call The Truitt Law Firm at (985) 308-9946 today for a free, confidential wrongful death case review.
