Wrongful Death Attorney in Denver

Ready to Help You & Your Family During This Difficult Time

Losing a loved one in a tragic accident caused by negligence is devastating and emotionally overwhelming. Not only must you and your family grieve their death, but you may also need to pay funeral and burial expenses yourself.

No amount of money can truly compensate for the loss of your loved one, but you may qualify for financial recovery to help with the damages your family suffers as a result of the tragedy. During this difficult time, working with an experienced wrongful death attorney in Arapahoe County can help you hold the at-fault party accountable and pursue the compensation your family deserves.

At the Law Office of Joseph A. Lazzara, P.C., our Denver wrongful death lawyer is committed to protecting the rights and best interests of your family, both inside and outside the courtroom.

Seeking Justice for Your Loved One? Contact our wrongful death lawyer in Arapahoe County at (720) 809-8262 for a free consultation and let us help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Wrongful Death Laws in Colorado

You may file a wrongful death claim in Colorado within two years of the date of death to seek damages.

A wrongful death claim is a lawsuit filed in civil court to hold another party liable for a person's death. Many types of incidents—such as car accidents, truck accidents, slip and fall accidents, and serious injuries caused by defective products—that might have led to a personal injury lawsuit can also result in a wrongful death action.

The following individuals may file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the deceased:

The surviving spouse (within the first year after the wrongful death)

The surviving spouse (within the second year after the wrongful death)

The deceased individual’s parents (if there is no surviving spouse and children)

The surviving family members or a representative of the deceased person’s estate (if there is no surviving spouse, children, or parents)

Damages available for the deceased or their estate include medical expenses related to the individual’s final injury or illness, as well as funeral and burial expenses. Family members can also seek compensation for lost income the deceased would likely have earned had they lived, benefits such as life insurance, and the loss of love and care.

Colorado's wrongful death laws apply specifically to incidents that occur within the state. Families pursuing claims in Arapahoe County often file in the District Court located in Centennial. Local rules for document submissions and strict filing deadlines can affect how and when you initiate your claim, so acting quickly helps protect your rights.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases in Denver

Wrongful deaths arise from many circumstances involving negligence or reckless actions. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Car Accidents – Drunk, distracted, or reckless drivers often cause fatal crashes. Speeding and ignoring traffic laws also contribute to deadly collisions.
• Medical Malpractice – Doctors or hospitals may be liable if a patient dies due to misdiagnosis, surgical errors, medication mistakes, or failing to provide proper care.
• Workplace Accidents – Unsafe job sites, missing safety measures, or employer negligence can lead to fatal injuries, especially in construction, manufacturing, and industrial settings.
• Defective Products – Businesses can be responsible if their faulty products, such as vehicle parts, appliances, or medications, result in fatal injuries.
• Nursing Home Abuse & Neglect – Elderly residents may face fatal injuries from neglect, malnutrition, medical errors, or physical abuse in care facilities.

Several fatal accidents in Arapahoe County happen on major roads like Interstate 25 and Parker Road—both known for high traffic and collision risk. The area’s hospitals and healthcare providers also see wrongful death cases related to medical errors. Understanding why these incidents occur in the community can inform families' next steps when facing such a loss.

The Process for Wrongful Death Claims in Arapahoe County

Pursuing a wrongful death claim in Arapahoe County involves several important steps. Once your family decides to move forward, your lawyer typically begins with a detailed investigation that collects relevant police reports, medical records, and interviews with witnesses who may be located in the area. Filing the lawsuit generally occurs in the Arapahoe County District Court, with local practices and deadlines influencing the process.

Court timelines depend on the court’s schedule and case backlog, so your case might resolve quickly in some instances, while others could move more slowly. Many claims settle through negotiation, though some require a trial where the court hears testimony and examines evidence. Discovery procedures and document exchanges follow Arapahoe County rules, and an attorney who regularly appears in these courts offers valuable familiarity with both staff and procedures.

Jury members typically live in Arapahoe County, so local values can influence the outcome of your case. Working with a wrongful death attorney in Arapahoe County who knows community norms and legal expectations can help you navigate the process with greater confidence and clarity. Consistent updates and open dialogue between you and your attorney ensure your family remains informed at every stage.

Why Personal Attention Matters in Wrongful Death Cases

Personal attention plays a key role in wrongful death claims, especially for families who want to understand each step as it unfolds. Direct attorney involvement from the first meeting through every phase supports families who may feel overwhelmed or uncertain. This approach stands out from larger firms that rely heavily on paralegals or assistants, which can leave clients feeling removed from the details that directly affect them.

The Law Office of Joseph A. Lazzara, P.C., distinguishes itself by ensuring Joseph A. Lazzara manages each case personally, with a commitment to open communication and individualized strategies. Families benefit from having a consistent point of contact, so their questions and concerns do not go unanswered. In Arapahoe County, where legal expectations can differ from other areas, this personal support and local insight help guide clients through each step. With years of experience in Colorado wrongful death cases, Joseph A. Lazzara helps clients avoid common pitfalls and stay focused on moving forward with strength.

How to Prove Negligence in a Wrongful Death Claim

To hold someone legally responsible for a wrongful death, you must prove negligence. This involves four key elements:

• Duty of Care – Demonstrate that the defendant had a legal responsibility to act safely, such as following traffic laws or providing competent medical care.
• Breach of Duty – Show the defendant breached that responsibility by acting negligently, recklessly, or intentionally causing harm.
• Causation – Link the defendant’s actions directly to your loved one’s death.
• Damages – Document the financial and emotional losses surviving family members face, including medical bills, funeral expenses, and loss of companionship.

Building a persuasive negligence case in Arapahoe County requires gathering local evidence, such as accident reports from county law enforcement, records from area hospitals, and statements from community members who witnessed the incident. Legal strategies can differ depending on where the event took place, making it vital to work with a wrongful death lawyer in Arapahoe County who understands county-specific judicial practices. By focusing on evidence and procedure, your attorney can help present a thorough case for your family.

Types of Compensation Available in a Wrongful Death Case

Families can seek financial compensation to help offset their losses following a wrongful death. The available damages include:

• Economic Damages – Tangible losses like medical expenses, funeral and burial fees, lost wages, and lost future earnings.
• Non-Economic Damages – Intangible harm such as emotional pain, mental anguish, loss of companionship, and lost parental guidance.
• Punitive Damages – In cases involving severe negligence or intentional harm, courts may award punitive damages to help discourage future misconduct.

Colorado law limits the amount of non-economic damages in wrongful death cases, including those filed in Arapahoe County. These caps can influence the total compensation a family receives. Discussing your possible recovery with a wrongful death attorney in Arapahoe County who knows these limits can help set realistic expectations. Additionally, families often coordinate wrongful death claims with life insurance, survivor benefits, and other financial resources that provide support during this challenging period.

If you’ve lost a loved one due to negligence, a knowledgeable wrongful death lawyer in Arapahoe County can explain your legal rights and options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Wrongful Death Claims in Denver

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Colorado?

• In Colorado, the surviving spouse has the exclusive right to file a wrongful death claim in the first year after the death. In the second year, children of the deceased can also file. If there is no spouse or children, the deceased person’s parents may file a claim.

How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit?

• Colorado law gives families two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. However, if the case involves a government entity, a shorter deadline may apply.

Can I still file a wrongful death claim if criminal charges are filed?

• Yes, wrongful death claims are civil cases, separate from any criminal charges such as manslaughter or homicide. Even if the defendant is found not guilty in a criminal trial, you can still pursue financial compensation in a civil lawsuit.

How long does a wrongful death case take to resolve?

• The time it takes to resolve a wrongful death case varies. Some claims settle in a few months, while others take longer if they proceed to trial. Factors such as case complexity, negotiations with insurers, and court schedules all affect the timeline.

What if the deceased person was partially at fault?

• Colorado follows modified comparative negligence laws. You may still recover compensation if your loved one was less than 50% at fault, but the settlement amount could decrease based on their share of responsibility.

Do I have to go to court for a wrongful death claim?

• Not always. Many wrongful death claims settle during negotiations with insurance companies. If you cannot reach a fair settlement, your attorney can take the case to trial to pursue full compensation.

How much is a wrongful death case worth?

• The value of a wrongful death claim depends on several factors, including lost income, medical bills, emotional suffering, and the circumstances surrounding the case. An attorney can help you estimate the potential value.

Wrongful Death Claim? We’re Here to Help. Contact us today at (720) 809-8262 to discuss your case with a compassionate wrongful death lawyer in Arapahoe County.