If you’ve lost a loved one due to the wrongful or negligent actions of another person, business, or government entity, you may be entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim. At Looney Smith Conrad & Hefti P.C., our Houston wrongful death attorneys understand the devastation that follows the unexpected loss of a family member. We are here to fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves.
Founding trial attorney Paul Looney has built a legacy of success in the courtroom, litigating 60 criminal jury trials with zero final convictions from 1995 to 2024. Our firm brings that same experience, focus, and tenacity to wrongful death cases. When lives are lost due to carelessness, we hold those responsible accountable—no matter who they are.
Call (281) 597-8818 for a consultation today!
A wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the careless, negligent, reckless, or intentional acts of another individual or entity. Under the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, certain family members of the deceased—including spouses, children, and parents—have the right to file a lawsuit for financial and emotional losses.
Wrongful death cases may arise from many circumstances, such as car accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, workplace accidents, unsafe premises, or acts of violence. These civil claims are separate from criminal proceedings. Even if someone is not convicted in a criminal court, they can still be held liable in a civil wrongful death lawsuit.
Texas law allows the surviving spouse, biological and adopted children, and parents of the deceased to bring a wrongful death claim. If none of these family members file a claim within three months, the executor of the estate may file on behalf of the beneficiaries—unless all the beneficiaries request otherwise.
The statute of limitations is two years from the date of death. If a claim is not filed within that time, it may be permanently barred. That’s why it’s important to speak with a Houston wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible.
Wrongful death lawsuits can be brought against individuals, corporations, and even government entities under certain circumstances. Liability may be based on an intentional act, such as assault, or on negligent behavior, such as a driver causing a fatal accident.
Some examples of wrongful acts that may result in a valid claim include:
Even acts of omission—failing to take action when duty is owed—can lead to wrongful death liability.
Texas has partially waived sovereign immunity, allowing certain wrongful death claims to be brought against state and local government entities under the Texas Tort Claims Act. This includes cases involving unsafe road conditions, negligent operation of motor vehicles by government employees, or accidents in public recreational facilities.
However, these cases come with strict notice and filing requirements. You must provide formal notice to the government agency within a limited time after the death or lose the right to sue. Damages are also capped: $250,000 per person and $500,000 per occurrence for bodily injury.
If you believe your loved one’s death was caused by a government agency, call us immediately at 281-597-8818. We are experienced in navigating these complex claims.
Hiring an experienced accident attorney early in the process is critical. At Looney Smith Conrad & Hefti P.C., we start working immediately to preserve evidence, consult with experts, and manage interactions with insurers. The sooner we get involved, the better chance we have of building a strong case and protecting your right to compensation.
We are not just attorneys—we are trial lawyers with the courtroom experience and litigation skills needed to take on powerful defendants and insurance companies. Our lead attorney Paul Looney is a respected figure in the legal community and has provided legal commentary in high-profile wrongful death cases, including the Branch Davidians lawsuit.
We work tirelessly to recover damages on your behalf for:
The pain of losing a loved one is overwhelming. The legal process should not add to your burden. At Looney Smith Conrad & Hefti P.C., we treat every case with compassion, dedication, and the determination to get results. Our legal team is here for you, ready to answer your questions and fight for your family’s future.
Call (281) 597-8818 (Houston) or (979) 826-8484 (Hempstead)
Text us anytime at (405) 388-6191
Speak with a wrongful death attorney who will stand by your side—and hold those responsible accountable.
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