No legal case can bring back a loved one. But when negligence leads to a fatal accident, the law gives grieving families in Kingman a way to demand accountability. If you’re seeking an experienced Kingman wrongful death lawyer, it’s likely because your world has changed forever. Whether your loss resulted from a crash on I-40, medical negligence at a local facility, or unsafe workplace conditions, Big Chad Law helps families pursue the financial justice they need to move forward.
What Qualifies as a Wrongful Death Case in Arizona?
Arizona law defines wrongful death as the loss of life due to another party’s carelessness, recklessness, or intentional actions. In Kingman, wrongful death cases often involve:
- Commercial truck collisions on major highways
- Nursing home neglect or abuse
- Defective machinery or equipment
- Premises liability incidents (e.g., fatal slips, dog attacks)
- Medical malpractice at local clinics
We examine the full context, identify every liable party, and build a legal strategy based on facts and evidence.
What Types of Damages Can You Claim in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
The emotional toll of a loved one’s death is compounded by financial hardship. Families may suddenly face:
- Lost income from a deceased spouse or parent
- Medical bills incurred before death
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Therapy or grief counseling costs
- Disrupted education plans for children
Many clients underestimate the long-term financial impact until it's too late. That's why timely legal advice matters.
Wrongful Death Impact Overview
| Loss Type | Example Impact |
|---|---|
| Lost Earnings | No longer receiving spouse’s salary |
| Emotional Distress | Ongoing grief, PTSD, and depression |
| Medical Costs | ER or ICU care before passing |
| Funeral Expenses | Average in AZ: $6,000–$10,000+ |
| Family Role Loss | Child loses daily care from a parent |
Who Is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Arizona?
Arizona law limits who can file. The eligible parties include:
- The surviving spouse
- Children (including adult children)
- Parents (if the deceased was unmarried or childless)
- A legal representative of the estate
In some cases, multiple family members may share in a settlement or judgment, depending on dependency and state statutes.
How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Arizona?
Arizona’s statute of limitations is two years from the date of death. Delays can make evidence harder to gather or even invalidate your claim.
Don’t wait. We start by securing:
- Accident reports and photos
- Medical records and timelines
- Witness testimony
- Insurance communications
Fast action preserves your right to full compensation.
Addressing Your Concerns: Legal Uncertainty After a Loss
Losing a loved one suddenly leaves many questions—some legal, some emotional. While every case is different, here are three common areas families often worry about:
- Criminal Charges and Civil Claims: If the person responsible faces criminal charges (like DUI or manslaughter), you can still pursue a civil wrongful death claim. These are two separate legal paths. A conviction is not required to win civil compensation.
- Shared Fault: Arizona follows a comparative negligence rule. If your loved one was partially at fault, your family can still recover a portion of damages. For example, if they were 30% at fault, you may still recover 70% of the assessed losses.
- Valuing the Loss: We don’t use generic calculators. Financial experts review career history, age, health, and contribution to family life. Emotional loss is supported by psychologists and grief counselors.
This tailored approach helps us build a compelling case rooted in your family’s specific experience.
We don’t use a formula—we use facts. Here’s how we approach every case:
- Investigate thoroughly: review police reports, camera footage, 911 logs
- Document all damages: from bills to testimony from grief experts
- Coordinate experts: economic loss specialists, accident reconstructionists
- Negotiate fiercely: no lowball offers accepted
- Prepare for trial: if necessary, we take your case to court
This process is designed to pursue maximum recovery without compromising your peace of mind.
Settlement vs. Trial in Wrongful Death Cases: What Should You Expect?
Not all wrongful death claims go to trial. In fact, many are resolved through strategic negotiation, where a fair settlement is reached without the need for court intervention. However, going to trial can sometimes result in higher compensation—especially when insurers refuse to make a reasonable offer.
We work with you to evaluate the benefits and risks of each path:
- Settlement Pros: Faster resolution, lower legal costs, privacy
- Trial Pros: Potential for greater award, public accountability, precedent-setting impact
Our legal team provides the information you need to make a confident decision.
Why Choose a Local Wrongful Death Lawyer in Kingman?
Handling wrongful death cases in Kingman requires more than legal knowledge. You need a team familiar with Mohave County’s courts, juries, and accident patterns. From Highway 93 collisions to elder neglect at local long-term care facilities, we’ve seen how neglect and system failures lead to tragedy.
Contact a Kingman Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
You have a limited time to act—and a lifetime of impact to consider. At Big Chad Law, we’re committed to giving your case the time, strategy, and aggressive advocacy it deserves.
Call today or fill out our consultation form. You don’t pay unless we win.
FAQ's
What damages are available for children of the deceased?
Minor children may be entitled to compensation for emotional pain, the loss of parental guidance, and future financial support. These damages are considered both economic and non-economic. Courts often consider the strength of the relationship and dependency level. An experienced attorney ensures all aspects are accounted for.
How long does a wrongful death case usually take in Arizona?
Most cases take several months to resolve, especially during the evidence collection and negotiation phases. If the case proceeds to trial, it can extend to over a year. Factors like witness availability and court scheduling can affect duration. Legal counsel helps streamline the process.
Is it possible to reopen a wrongful death case after settlement?
In general, once a wrongful death case has been resolved through a signed settlement or court decision, it cannot be reopened. That’s why it’s critical to have strong representation from the start. Your attorney will ensure that all avenues for compensation are fully explored before finalizing. Reopening is only possible in rare instances of fraud or legal error.
Can I still sue if the deceased didn’t have a job?
Yes. Wrongful death claims can also account for the loss of companionship, care, and household contributions. Courts recognize the value of non-wage support provided by stay-at-home parents or retirees. These non-economic damages are often just as significant. Your attorney will work with experts to document them.