Daphne Wrongful Death Lawyer

Let Our Firm Help You Through This Trying Time

When a loved one’s life is taken because of negligence, the emotional and financial toll is immeasurable. Families deserve answers — and accountability. At Cunningham Bounds, we fight for families who are forced to take on corporations, insurers, and others who put profits over safety.

Our trial lawyers have successfully litigated wrongful death cases against some of the largest and most powerful defendants in the world, securing verdicts and settlements that help families find justice and financial security after devastating loss. With  billion recovered, we have the experience, resources, and track record to handle even the most complex wrongful death claims.

When a wrongful death case demands accountability from corporations, insurers, or other powerful defendants, Cunningham Bounds is the firm families trust to take on the fight. Call (844) 417-0930 or contact us online for a FREE consultation.

Results That Reflect Our Commitment

Cunningham Bounds has recovered billions for victims and families — including substantial verdicts and settlements in wrongful death cases such as:

• $140 million verdict — Wrongful death of a patient caused by medical transcription errors
• $65 million verdict — Nursing home negligence resulting in wrongful death
• $50 million verdict — Truck driver burned to death in a post-accident rollover fire (product liability case)
• $50 million verdict — Defective natural-gas water heater explosion leading to fatal burns
• $40 million verdict — Defective seatbelt case resulting in wrongful death
• $35 million verdict — Death following thumb surgery due to medical negligence
• $20 million verdict — Anesthesia error resulting in wrongful death
• $15 million verdict — Carbon monoxide death at a lodge during honeymoon

See more of our case results.

When a wrongful death case demands accountability from corporations, insurers, or other powerful defendants, Cunningham Bounds is the firm families trust to take on the fight. 

Understanding Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Alabama

A wrongful death lawsuit allows surviving family members to hold a person, company, or other entity accountable when their negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing causes the death of a loved one. These claims can arise from a wide range of incidents, including:

• Car and truck crashes caused by negligent drivers
• Workplace accidents linked to safety violations
• Medical malpractice
• Dangerous or defective products
• Nursing home abuse or neglect
• Criminal acts, such as assault or homicide

Alabama’s wrongful death law is unique. Unlike most states, Alabama focuses solely on punitive damages, which are financial penalties designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar misconduct in the future. The law does not provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, or emotional suffering, as is common in other states.

Wrongful death cases in Alabama are about seeking accountability and sending a message that negligent or wrongful conduct will not be tolerated. Cunningham Bounds has decades of experience successfully handling these complex cases.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Alabama?

In Alabama, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by:

• The personal representative of the deceased person’s estate — This is the individual named in the deceased’s will or appointed by the probate court if no will exists.

Although the personal representative files the claim, any damages recovered are distributed to the decedent’s heirs. Under Alabama law, these typically include:

• The surviving spouse
• Children of the deceased
• Parents of the deceased (in certain circumstances)

Damages do not go to the estate itself, but directly to the heirs, following Alabama’s laws of intestate succession.

Cunningham Bounds is here to help families navigate this process and pursue justice for their loved one.

What Elements Must You Prove to Succeed in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

To bring a successful wrongful death claim in Alabama, the plaintiff must establish the following legal elements:

1. Death of a person: There must be evidence that someone has died.
2. Caused by the defendant’s wrongful act, omission, or negligence: This can include behavior such as drunk driving, surgical errors, or failure to maintain safe premises.
3. The action would have entitled the deceased to file a personal injury claim if they had survived: This means that had the victim lived, they could have sued the at-fault party for their injuries.

Unlike other states, Alabama wrongful death law does not require proving financial loss, emotional suffering, or medical costs. Instead, the court focuses on punishing the at-fault party’s conduct through punitive damages.

Compensation for Wrongful Death

Alabama stands out among U.S. states because only punitive damages may be awarded in wrongful death cases. This is different from most states, where families may recover medical bills, funeral expenses, lost wages, or loss of companionship.

• The amount of punitive damages is determined by a jury and is intended to:
• Punish the at-fault party
• Deter similar negligent or reckless behavior in the future

Because compensation is not based on financial loss, Alabama wrongful death claims can be complex and may involve aggressive opposition from the defense. Our Daphne wrongful death lawyer at Cunningham Bounds can help build a strong case and fight for justice on your behalf.

FAQs About Wrongful Death Claims

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

Alabama has a two-year statute of limitations from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. If this window closes, you may lose your right to pursue legal action.

What types of incidents qualify as wrongful death in Daphne?

Wrongful death claims in Daphne may arise from many causes, including motor vehicle accidents, medical errors, industrial accidents, defective products, and criminal acts.

Can I sue for pain and suffering?

Not in Alabama. Unlike other states, you cannot recover damages for pain, suffering, or emotional loss in a wrongful death claim. The only available remedy is punitive damages aimed at punishing the wrongdoer.

What if the responsible party is a business or corporation?

You can still file a wrongful death claim if a company’s negligence contributed to your loved one’s death—for example, through unsafe working conditions, defective products, or poor corporate practices. The same rules apply, and punitive damages may still be awarded.

What does a wrongful death lawyer do?

A wrongful death attorney helps you by:

• Investigating the cause of death
• Gathering evidence and expert testimony
• Filing all necessary legal documents
• Representing the estate in court
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Fighting for the maximum punitive damages available

At Cunningham Bounds, we have the experience and resources needed to take on powerful defendants, whether they are individuals, corporations, or insurance companies.

Contact a Daphne Wrongful Death Attorney

The loss of a loved one is one of the most painful experiences a family can face, especially when it could have been prevented. At Cunningham Bounds, we understand the gravity of wrongful death cases and provide compassionate, results-driven representation to your family.

When you're ready, reach out to us at (844) 417-0930 to discuss your case.