Wrongful Death Attorney Phoenix

Losing a loved one because of someone else’s actions is devastating. In the middle of grief, you may be wondering whether what happened was preventable and whether your family has legal options. When you need a wrongful death attorney Phoenix families can turn to for clear guidance,Montoya, Lucero & Pastor, P.A.  is here to help.

For more than six decades, our firm has represented Arizona families in serious cases involving wrongful death, personal injury, sexual abuse, civil rights, and employment matters. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay legal fees only if there is a financial recovery. Our goal is to shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on your family.

Contact our firm today to speak with a Phoenix wrongful death attorney about your situation and learn what options may be available.

Why Families Choose Our Law Firm

When a family member dies unexpectedly because of negligence or misconduct, choosing the right legal team can feel overwhelming. You need attorneys who understand the law and who also respect the story of your loved one’s life. At Montoya, Lucero & Pastor, P.A., we take time to listen before we talk about strategy, because every loss is personal.

Our firm has served this community for more than sixty years, and during that time our attorneys have handled many serious and sensitive cases. This includes wrongful death matters, sexual abuse claims, and civil rights violations. That experience helps us anticipate challenges, explain each step of the process, and prepare families for what to expect in Arizona courts.

Several members of our legal team are former prosecutors. This background gives us valuable insight into how cases are built and presented in the courtroom. When insurance companies or defendants refuse to accept responsibility, we are prepared to take a case before a judge or jury and pursue justice through litigation when appropriate.

We also know that access to legal help should not depend on language or work schedules. Our attorneys provide legal counsel in both English and Spanish, and we offer weekend consultations to accommodate families who cannot meet during traditional business hours. Combined with our contingency fee policy, these practices are designed to reduce stress during an already difficult period.

Arizona Wrongful Death Laws Explained

Many families are unsure whether they have grounds to bring a wrongful death lawsuit Phoenix courts will recognize. Under Arizona law, a wrongful death claim is a civil case that arises when a person’s death is caused by the wrongful act, neglect, or default of another. It is separate from any criminal case that the State of Arizona may pursue.

Arizona statutes specify who may file a wrongful death claim. In many situations, the surviving spouse, children, or parents may have the right to bring the case. In some circumstances, the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate can file on behalf of the statutory beneficiaries. Which option applies depends on the family’s specific circumstances.

Wrongful death claims arising from incidents in the Phoenix area may be filed in Maricopa County Superior Court. There are strict time limits, called statutes of limitation, that govern how long the family has to file. The exact deadline can depend on the nature of the claim and the parties involved, so it is important to speak with an attorney promptly about your situation.

These laws can be complex, especially for families who are also managing grief and sudden financial strain. During an initial consultation, we review the facts with you, explain how Arizona law may apply, and discuss whether a civil claim appears appropriate. Our goal is to provide straightforward information so you can make informed decisions.

Who May Be Held Responsible

Determining who is legally responsible for a wrongful death often requires a detailed investigation. Liable parties may include individuals, businesses, healthcare providers, property owners, or public entities. In some cases, multiple parties may share responsibility.

Our attorneys review accident reports, medical records, employment documents, and other relevant evidence to understand how the loss occurred. Some wrongful death claims arise from fatal car accidents or motorcycle accidents, while others involve medical malpractice, unsafe workplaces such as construction accidents, or deaths caused by inadequate safety measures tied to negligent security.

By identifying responsible parties and potential insurance coverage, we work to hold accountable those whose actions or omissions contributed to the loss.

Every case is unique, and liability is rarely as simple as it first appears. We walk families through our findings, explain potential legal options, and discuss possible next steps. You remain in control of major decisions while we manage the legal work.

Compensation In A Wrongful Death Case

No amount of money can replace a loved one. However, a successful wrongful death claim can provide financial stability and a measure of accountability for what happened. In Arizona, compensation is intended to address both economic and non-economic harms experienced by surviving family members.

Economic losses can include final medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, and the income and benefits the deceased would likely have provided over time. Families may also face the loss of services such as childcare, household support, or guidance in a family business. Carefully documenting these changes helps present a more complete picture of the financial impact.

Non-economic harms often include loss of love, companionship, care, and guidance. These losses are deeply personal, and Arizona law recognizes that they are real even though they are less easily measured. Our attorneys take time to understand the role your loved one played in your life so that we can present this part of the story with care.

The overall value of a wrongful death claim depends on many factors, such as the circumstances of the death, the age and health of the deceased, and the needs of surviving relatives. We discuss these factors openly, explain how insurers and defendants may view the case, and keep you involved in any settlement discussions.

What To Do After A Wrongful Death

In the weeks after a sudden loss, legal steps may be the last thing on your mind. That is understandable. At the same time, certain practical actions can help protect your family’s rights if you later decide to pursue a wrongful death lawyer Phoenix residents trust with serious claims.

Helpful steps families can take include:

• Collecting relevant documents, such as accident reports, medical records, and any communications from insurers
• Keeping copies of bills, funeral invoices, and records of expenses related to the death
• Writing down your recollection of events and any conversations with witnesses or involved parties
• Avoiding detailed written or recorded statements to insurance companies before speaking with an attorney
• Reaching out to our firm to discuss the situation in a confidential consultation

Contacting our team does not commit you to filing a claim. It gives you the opportunity to ask questions, learn about applicable deadlines, and understand potential options before evidence fades or paperwork is signed. We offer weekend consultations and can meet with you in English or Spanish, either in person or by phone where appropriate.

During your initial consultation, we listen to your concerns, review available information, and explain how the law might apply. If we agree to work together, our representation is on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay legal fees only if there is a recovery. We strive to keep you informed so that each step feels manageable rather than overwhelming.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

We handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, so you pay legal fees only if there is a financial recovery. There are no upfront legal fees for our services. During your consultation, we explain our fee structure and answer any questions before you decide how to proceed.

Who can file a wrongful death claim in Arizona?

In many Arizona cases, the surviving spouse, children, or parents may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. In some situations, a personal representative files on behalf of the statutory beneficiaries. We review your family’s circumstances and explain which options may apply before any claim is started.

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

Arizona law sets deadlines, called statutes of limitation, that limit how long you have to file. The specific time frame can depend on factors such as the type of case and whether a public entity is involved. We encourage families to contact us promptly so we can evaluate applicable deadlines.

Will filing a lawsuit make my grief worse?

Pursuing a claim can bring up painful memories, but many families find that seeking accountability helps them feel more in control. Our role is to handle the legal work, explain what to expect, and prepare you for key steps, so the process feels as respectful and manageable as possible.

Can your attorneys meet with my family on weekends or in Spanish?

Yes. We offer weekend consultations when needed, and our attorneys provide legal counsel in both English and Spanish. This allows more family members to participate and ask questions. When you contact our office, let us know your scheduling and language needs so we can plan a meeting that works for you.

Talk With A Phoenix Wrongful Death Lawyer

If you are considering a wrongful death lawsuit Phoenix courts may hear, you do not have to sort through the legal questions alone. Speaking with our team can help you understand your options, potential time limits, and what pursuing a claim might look like for your family.

At Montoya, Lucero & Pastor, P.A., we bring more than six decades of service in this community, a focus on serious and sensitive cases, and a commitment to relationship-based representation. We offer free consultations, weekend availability, and bilingual support, all on a contingency fee basis so there are no upfront legal fees.

Call (602) 483-6869 to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you take the next step forward.