Wrongful Death Attorney Baton Rouge

Compassionate Legal Guidance After A Fatal Loss

Losing a family member because of someone else’s actions changes everything in an instant. You may be trying to plan a funeral, manage bills, and support others, all while wondering what your legal options are. In this difficult time, you should not have to sort through the law on your own.

At Pierce & Shows, we help families in Baton Rouge and across Louisiana navigate wrongful death claims and other serious personal injury matters. Our firm has represented people in this area since 1992, and our team brings over 60 years of combined legal experience to the cases we handle. We work to protect your rights while giving you the space to focus on your family.

You don’t have to face this journey alone, let our experienced team handle the legal burdens while you focus on your family. Call Pierce & Shows today for a free, compassionate consultation to discuss your options.

Why Families Choose Our Firm

Since 1992, has represented Baton Rouge families in wrongful death claims, car accidents, unsafe property, and negligence. Our deep roots in the local community and court systems allow us to tailor legal strategies to your specific goals, such as seeking financial security or corporate accountability. We prioritize a client-centered approach, focusing on the unique impact your loss has had on your family's future.

Our firm provides honest guidance and consistent communication to help you navigate difficult legal decisions without unnecessary jargon. We combine a results-oriented approach with a commitment to respecting your family’s choices throughout the litigation process.

What To Do After A Wrongful Death

1. Gather Evidence

• Collect accident/police reports.
• Save the responding agency’s name and report numbers.
• Keep all medical records and bills.
• File all correspondence from insurance companies.

2. Handle Insurance Carefully

• Do not provide a recorded statement.
• Do not accept early settlement offers.

3. Seek Legal Guidance

• Consult an attorney to understand Louisiana law.
• Evaluate the long-term financial impact before signing anything.

Louisiana Wrongful Death Laws Explained

Louisiana law specifies a strict hierarchy for who may file a wrongful death claim, typically prioritizing surviving spouses and children before parents or other relatives. Because multiple family members are often affected, identifying the correct parties to lead a claim is a critical first step. Our attorneys evaluate your family’s specific circumstances to clarify legal standing and ensure the appropriate individuals are represented under state statutes.

Louisiana also imposes rigorous filing deadlines, generally calculated from the date of death. Failure to initiate a claim within this period often results in a permanent loss of the right to seek recovery, regardless of the case's merits. Beyond addressing financial losses like funeral expenses and lost income, these claims seek to account for the loss of companionship and emotional support. We provide detailed consultations to help families navigate these time limits and identify all applicable damages.

How We Handle Wrongful Death Cases

1. Tailored Strategy: Exhaustive review of records and accident reports to build a case specific to your family’s goals.
2. Decades of Expertise: Over 60 years of combined experience navigating the complexities of the Louisiana court system.
3. Full Burden Management: We handle all investigations and negotiations so you can focus on your family.
4. Constant Support: Meticulous analysis paired with consistent communication to keep you informed.
5. Proven Outcomes: A results-oriented approach with a history of favorable settlements in Baton Rouge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Louisiana?

Louisiana generally has a relatively short deadline for filing wrongful death claims, often one year from the date of death. Some situations can be more complex, so it is wise to speak with an attorney promptly. We can review your timeline and help you understand how the law may apply.

How much will it cost to hire your wrongful death lawyers?

Many wrongful death and personal injury attorneys use fee arrangements that do not require upfront payment, but specific terms depend on the case and the firm’s policies. During an initial conversation, we explain how our fees work in clear language so you can decide whether moving forward makes sense for your family.

What will your team handle for my family if we move forward?

If you choose to work with us, our team typically handles communication with insurance companies and opposing counsel, gathers relevant records, and prepares legal filings as needed. We keep you updated and involve you in key decisions, while working to reduce the day to day legal stress on your family.

Can we still have a case if my loved one may have been partly at fault?

In Louisiana, fault can be shared among multiple parties, and that can affect how damages are evaluated. Even if your loved one may have been partly responsible, there could still be a claim. We review the facts carefully and explain how comparative fault might influence your case.

Do wrongful death cases in Baton Rouge always go to trial?

Many wrongful death cases are resolved through negotiation or other resolution methods, although some do proceed to trial. Whether a case settles or is tried often depends on the facts, the strength of the evidence, and the positions taken by the parties. We discuss these possibilities with you as the case develops.

If you have lost a loved one and are unsure where to turn, speaking with an attorney can help you understand your options and next steps. At Pierce & Shows, we draw on decades of work in Baton Rouge and across Louisiana to guide families through wrongful death claims with clear communication and respectful support.

To talk with our team about your situation, you can call us and ask your questions in confidence. Call (225) 320-8050 to speak with our office today.