Brighton Wrongful Death Lawyers

Wrongful Death Attorneys | Brighton, CO

The unexpected loss of a loved one due to negligence is more than just a tragedy—it is an irreversible loss that can leave families reeling with grief and uncertainty. At Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C., we understand the weight of this loss. You are not just another case to us—you are a family seeking justice for someone who mattered. A Brighton wrongful death lawyer from our firm can provide the compassionate legal support you need while ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. We will stand by your side, guiding you through this complex legal process with care and determination so your family can focus on healing and rebuilding.

What Sets a Wrongful Death Claim Apart?

Under Colorado law, a wrongful death claim allows surviving family members to pursue financial compensation when a loved one’s death results from another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing. These claims help families recover damages while ensuring those responsible are held accountable. Unlike a personal injury lawsuit, which the victim files directly, a wrongful death claim is brought by those left behind. These claims aim to provide financial security and hold responsible parties accountable for their actions. Compensation may cover:

• Final medical expenses—costs associated with emergency care, hospitalization, or treatments provided before death;
• Funeral and burial costs—expenses incurred in providing a dignified farewell to a loved one;
• Loss of income and benefits—compensation for the wages the deceased would have earned to support their family;
• Emotional suffering—recognition of the deep grief and distress experienced by surviving family members; and
• Loss of companionship and guidance—acknowledgment of the void left by losing a spouse, parent, or child.

Our Brighton wrongful death attorneys understand that these losses go beyond financial concerns—they impact every aspect of your daily life. We strive to handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Colorado?

Colorado law governs who may pursue a wrongful death lawsuit and establishes a structured timeframe for taking legal action:

• First year after the death. The deceased’s spouse has the exclusive right to file a claim. If there is no surviving spouse, the deceased’s children may file.
• Second year after the death. The spouse, children, or designated beneficiary may file. The deceased’s parents may pursue the case if there are no eligible claimants.
• Survival action. The estate’s personal representative may file a claim for financial losses, such as medical bills and lost wages incurred prior to death.

The legal requirements for filing a wrongful death claim can be challenging to navigate without experienced counsel. Our Brighton wrongful death lawyer is here to guide you every step of the way.

Leading Causes of Wrongful Death Cases

Fatal accidents can occur under various circumstances, often due to reckless or negligent behavior. Common causes of wrongful death claims include:

• Car accidents—fatalities resulting from distracted driving, speeding, or impaired driving;
• Truck accidents—large truck collisions caused by driver fatigue, equipment failure, or regulatory violations;
• Medical malpractice—loss of life due to misdiagnosis, surgical mistakes, medication errors, or other medical negligence;
• Workplace accidents—fatal injuries sustained in unsafe work environments or due to employer negligence;
• Premises liability incidents—fatal falls, drownings, or other injuries due to hazardous property conditions; and
• Defective products—faulty consumer goods, medical devices, or auto defects leading to fatal injuries.

If your loved one’s death was caused by negligence, a Brighton wrongful death claim lawyer can help you seek justice and financial relief.

Time Limit for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Colorado

Colorado law imposes a two-year statute of limitations on wrongful death claims. You may lose your right to pursue compensation if a lawsuit is not filed within this period. In some cases, exceptions may apply, such as claims involving criminal activity or concealed evidence. Since timing is critical, speaking with our Brighton wrongful death attorneys as soon as possible ensures we can help you preserve your rights and file your claim on time.

Compensation Available in a Wrongful Death Claim

Understanding the full scope of compensation in a wrongful death case is essential for families seeking financial stability after a tragic loss. Courts assess multiple factors when determining damages, including the deceased’s income, role within the family, and the circumstances of their passing. Compensation in these claims is typically divided into three main categories: economic damages, noneconomic damages, and punitive damages.

Economic Damages

These damages cover the measurable financial losses that result from the wrongful death, including medical bills incurred before death, funeral and burial expenses, and lost wages. If the deceased was a primary income provider, compensation may include future earnings, benefits, and financial contributions they would have provided to their family.

Noneconomic Damages

These damages compensate for the emotional and psychological impact of the loss, including mental anguish, loss of companionship, and the absence of parental guidance or spousal support. While these damages are more difficult to quantify, they acknowledge the profound effect of losing a loved one.

Punitive Damages

In cases involving reckless or intentional misconduct, courts may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party and discourage similar behavior in the future. These damages are not intended to compensate the family directly but serve as a deterrent against egregious negligence.

Families may also recover compensation for household services and non-wage contributions the deceased provided, such as childcare, home maintenance, or caregiving responsibilities. The calculation of these damages often considers the cost of hiring professionals to perform these services and the long-term financial impact on the surviving family members. These damages aim to alleviate immediate financial stress and provide long-term security for surviving family members. Our Brighton wrongful death law firm is committed to ensuring that families receive the full and fair compensation they deserve, helping them focus on healing and rebuilding their lives.

Why Trust Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C.?

Choosing the right legal team for a wrongful death claim is a decision that can shape the future of your family. We offer:

• Decades of experience. Our legal team has over 100 years of combined experience handling wrongful death cases in Colorado.
• Proven financial recoveries. We have secured over $230 million in settlements and verdicts for our clients.
• Client-centered advocacy. Our legal strategies are customized to align with each family’s unique circumstances and needs.
• Statewide representation. We serve families across Colorado, including those in Brighton, Boulder, and Denver.
• Ethical and transparent legal guidance. We are committed to honest communication, integrity, and ethical legal representation.
• Free consultations. We offer no-cost case evaluations to help families understand their legal rights and options.

Our legal team is ready to fight for the justice and financial stability you deserve.

Speak with a Brighton Wrongful Death Attorney Today

If your family has suffered the loss of a loved one due to another’s negligence, you do not have to face this journey alone. Our Brighton wrongful death lawyer is here to provide compassionate and skilled representation, helping you secure the compensation and closure you need. Our team is ready to help you navigate the legal complexities and ensure your rights are protected. We are here to listen, guide, and advocate for your family’s future. Contact us today for a free consultation.