Losing a loved one is always heartbreaking. When that loss could have been prevented, the grief is joined by a deep sense of injustice. In Louisiana, families who have lost someone to mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease often discover too late that workplace exposure was to blame. At The Cheek Law Firm, we help families hold negligent companies accountable through wrongful death lawsuits.
What Is a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2315.2, certain family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit when someone dies due to the fault of another person or company. In cases involving asbestos exposure, these lawsuits are often brought against former employers, manufacturers, contractors, or premises owners who failed to warn or protect workers from dangerous materials. Many of these exposures happened decades ago in Louisiana's shipyards, chemical plants, and oil refineries.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Louisiana?
Louisiana law establishes a clear order of priority for who may file a wrongful death claim. The right first belongs to the surviving spouse and children of the deceased. If there is no spouse or children, the parents may bring the claim. If no parents are living, then siblings may file. If none of those relatives survive, then the grandparents may pursue the claim.
The law treats adopted children and adoptive parents the same as biological family members. These laws can be complex and fact-specific. If you've lost a loved one and believe you may have a wrongful death claim, especially one related to asbestos exposure, contact a qualified Louisiana attorney to understand your rights.
What Damages Can Be Recovered?
Wrongful death lawsuits can provide compensation for a range of losses that families experience after losing a loved one to an asbestos-related disease.
- Economic damages are the tangible financial losses families face. These may include funeral and burial costs, final medical bills, lost wages and benefits, and the loss of future income or inheritance.
- Non-economic damages cover the intangible, deeply personal losses that come with grief. These may include emotional pain and suffering, loss of companionship, loss of guidance and support, and for spouses, loss of intimacy and partnership.
In some cases where a company acted with extreme recklessness or indifference, punitive damages may be awarded as a form of punishment and deterrence.
Why Choose a Louisiana Law Firm for an Asbestos-Related Wrongful Death Claim?
Asbestos-related wrongful death cases are uniquely complex. They involve uncovering work histories, proving exposure sources, and linking a diagnosis to corporate negligence. That requires a law firm with deep knowledge of Louisiana industries, court systems, and legal precedent.
At The Cheek Law Firm, we are proud to represent families across Louisiana. Our firm is based in New Orleans and led by attorneys who understand the human cost of toxic exposure. We have helped numerous families seek justice after a loved one passed away from an asbestos-related illness. In one recent case, we served as co-counsel with former Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards to help a family pursue accountability after a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Compassionate Help When You Need It Most
When you are facing the loss of a loved one, no amount of money can replace them. But holding negligent companies responsible can help bring a sense of closure and financial relief. If you believe your loved one's death was caused by asbestos exposure, The Cheek Law Firm is ready to help. We work for your family as if it were our own. Reach out today for a confidential consultation.