If you have lost a loved one due to wrongful death in Alabama or Georgia, Walton Law Firm is here to fight for justice and hold the responsible parties accountable. Whether the cause was medical malpractice, a car accident, a workplace accident, or a defective product, our experienced wrongful death attorneys will guide you through the legal process with compassion and expertise.
With over 55 years of combined experience, we have successfully represented families across Auburn, Opelika, East Alabama, and West Georgia. While no legal action can replace a loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide accountability and financial relief. No win, no fee – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Why Choose Walton Law Firm for Your Wrongful Death Case?
✅ Proven Results – Successfully representing families in wrongful death lawsuits
✅ Compassionate & Skilled Attorneys – We provide personalized legal support during this difficult time
✅ No Upfront Fees – Free consultation, and you only pay if we win
✅ Deep Understanding of Alabama & Georgia Wrongful Death Laws – We know how to navigate the unique legal process in each state
Wrongful Death Claims in Alabama vs. Georgia
Wrongful Death Cases in Alabama
Alabama has some of the strictest wrongful death laws in the country. Unlike other states, Alabama wrongful death claims focus only on punitive damages—designed to punish the wrongdoer rather than compensate the victim’s family.
- Punitive Damages Only – Alabama does not compensate for lost wages, funeral costs, or emotional suffering. Instead, the focus is on deterring future negligence.
- Personal Representative Requirement – A wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by a court-appointed personal representative of the deceased’s estate.
- No Estate Debt Deductions – Any damages recovered do not become part of the deceased’s estate and are not subject to debts or liabilities.
Because Alabama’s wrongful death laws are unique, you need a legal team with experience handling these cases.
Wrongful Death Claims in Georgia
Unlike Alabama, Georgia law allows surviving family members to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages related to their loss.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Georgia?
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2), the following individuals can file a wrongful death lawsuit:
👨👩👧 Spouse – The surviving spouse has the first right to file a claim. If there are children, the spouse must share the compensation with them.
🧒 Children – If there is no surviving spouse, the deceased’s children can file the claim.
👵 Parents – If the deceased had no spouse or children, their parents may file the claim.
💼 Personal Representative of the Estate – If none of the above apply, the claim can be brought by the estate administrator, and damages are distributed to the deceased’s next of kin.
Types of Compensation in Georgia Wrongful Death Cases
Unlike Alabama, where wrongful death damages are purely punitive, Georgia allows compensation for both financial and emotional losses, including:
💰 Medical & Funeral Expenses – Costs associated with the injury and burial
💼 Lost Wages & Benefits – The value of the deceased’s lost income, including future earnings
❤️ Pain & Suffering – Compensation for the emotional and mental suffering of surviving family members
🏛 Punitive Damages – In cases of extreme negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party
Time Limits for Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Georgia
The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Georgia is two years from the date of death. However, exceptions may apply, especially if the case involves criminal charges or ongoing investigations. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to compensation.
Ready to discuss your case? Contact our experienced team of Alabama wrongful death lawyers for a free initial case consultation*
Common Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
Walton Law Firm represents families in a wide range of wrongful death claims, including:
🚗 Car Accidents – Deadly crashes caused by reckless or impaired drivers
🏢 Workplace Accidents – Fatal injuries occurring on construction sites, industrial jobs, and hazardous work environments
🛑 Product Liability – Defective or dangerous products that result in fatal injuries
🚛 18-Wheeler Accidents – Devastating crashes involving commercial trucks and semi-trailers
What to Do If You Suspect a Wrongful Death Case
If you believe your loved one’s death was due to someone else’s negligence, take the following steps:
1️⃣ Obtain medical records and autopsy reports – These documents provide critical evidence.
2️⃣ Gather witness statements and accident reports – Eyewitness accounts can help establish liability.
3️⃣ Avoid speaking with insurance companies – They will attempt to minimize the claim.
4️⃣ Contact Walton Law Firm immediately – Our attorneys will investigate the case, build a strong claim, and fight for justice.
Experienced Wrongful Death Attorneys Fighting for You
At Walton Law Firm, we understand that losing a loved one due to negligence is devastating. Our legal team is here to guide you through every step of the wrongful death lawsuit process with compassion and dedication.
📞 Call Walton Law Firm at 334-321-3000 or fill out our online form to schedule a free case consultation today.
⚖️ Put a Fighter in Your Corner. Let Trip Walton, “the Fighter” and his team of Top Attorney’s at Walton Law Firm help you seek justice.
Disclaimer: Free consultations apply to wrongful death cases only. Every case is unique, and results may vary.
