Spearfish Wrongful Death Lawyers

Advocating for Families of Wrongful Death Victims in Spearfish

Residents of Spearfish, South Dakota, are surrounded by natural beauty. They enjoy the benefits of Black Hills forest trails, canyon waterfalls, freshwater fishing, and spectacular views. Spearfish may be the perfect place to relax and recharge, but even here, fatal incidents can occur due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. We understand that no amount of money can ever compensate you for losing a loved one. A wrongful death claim provides a legal means to seek justice for your loved one and compensation for your family’s future.

At Steven Titus & Associates, P.C., we are dedicated and compassionate advocates for surviving family members of wrongful death victims in Spearfish. Our firm has an impressive work ethic and a reputation for results. Founding attorney Steven Titus offers personalized service and takes pride in always being available to his clients. We believe in open communication and never make a decision without your knowledge and agreement.

If someone you love has died because of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, call a Spearfish personal injur lawyer to schedule a free consultation at (307) 257-7800.

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What Does “Wrongful Death” Mean?

Wrongful death occurs when someone dies because of the negligent or wrongful acts of another. It is a legal term that refers to a civil cause of action brought on behalf of surviving family members of the deceased. State laws specify who can file a wrongful death claim, which family members are entitled to recover damages, what types of damages may be recovered, and the time limit for filing a lawsuit. The statute of limitations for wrongful death in South Dakota is three years from the date of death.

Common causes of wrongful death include:

• DUI accidents
• Traffic crashes caused by negligence
• Defective products that cause fatal injuries
• Collisions involving semi-tractor-trailers and passenger vehicles
• Slip and fall accidents caused by dangerous conditions on properties
• Nursing home abuse and neglect
• Negligent security leading to criminal assaults

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What Is Involved in Building a Wrongful Death Case?

It is vital to have an experienced Spearfish wrongful death lawyer represent you. Although the standard (preponderance of the evidence) is lower than the standard in a criminal case (beyond a reasonable doubt), the burden of proof still rests with the plaintiff. Your attorney must create a compelling case to prevail in a wrongful death claim. Your legal team must gather evidence to establish negligence and work with experts to assess the impact of your loss accurately. To recover compensation for wrongful death in Spearfish, your attorney must show that the fault of the deceased was “slight” and the fault of the defendant was “gross.”

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Recoverable Forms of Compensation in a Wrongful Death Case

Compensatory damages in a wrongful death claim are intended to compensate survivors for the losses they have suffered and will suffer in the future because of the death. They may include:

• Medical expenses related to the last injury or illness of the deceased
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Lost income and benefits the deceased would have received had they lived
• Pain and suffering of the deceased experienced with the death
• Pain and suffering of family members because of the death
• Property damage, if any, caused by the fatal accident
• Loss of the love, affection, companionship, society, guidance, and comfort of the deceased

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Spearfish Wrongful Death Attorney Helping You and Your Family Get Justice

Pursuing wrongful death damages can be a complex process. It is in your family’s best interests to have an experienced Spearfish wrongful death attorney represent you. At Steven Titus & Associates, P.C., our Spearfish legal team has extensive experience and a history of success representing surviving family members in wrongful death cases.

We are always available to answer any of your questions and will always treat you and your family with respect and compassion. Let us help you get justice on behalf of you and your loved one.

Contact us at (307) 257-7800 if you have lost a loved one in an incident that was someone else’s fault.

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