Dealing with a loved one’s death is hard no matter the circumstances, but it can be especially difficult when someone else’s actions cause that death. In such a situation, it is important to understand that you have legal options.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
In Louisiana, the following family members of the decedent may generally file a wrongful death lawsuit, per Louisiana Civil Code (CC) §2315.2 :
- A surviving spouse or child
- A surviving father or mother, if there is no surviving spouse or children
- Surviving siblings, if there is no surviving parent, spouse, or child
- Surviving grandparents, if there is no surviving sibling, parent, spouse, or child
Under this statute, you typically must file a wrongful death lawsuit within one year of your loved one’s death. Due to this short prescriptive period, any family members considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit should seek legal assistance as soon as possible. A Marksville wrongful death attorney from our firm can help you properly file your claim by the one-year deadline, time permitting.

