PRACTICE AREA

Texas Wrongful Death Lawyer

When negligence causes a death, Texas law may recognize claims belonging to specified family members as well as claims connected to the decedent’s estate.

Reviewed for publication: September 1, 2026 • General Texas legal information

Two distinct categories of claims

A wrongful-death claim generally addresses losses suffered by eligible surviving family members. A survival claim generally continues a claim the deceased person could have brought and belongs to the estate. The proper parties and recoverable damages can differ.

Who may bring the claims

Family relationships, estate status, probate appointments, and timing should be examined promptly. Settlement authority and allocation can become complicated when there are minors, multiple beneficiaries, liens, or disputes.

Evidence and damages

The investigation may include liability evidence, medical and funeral records, employment and financial history, family testimony, conscious pain evidence, and proof of the relationships and losses involved.

Early action matters

Evidence must be preserved, potential defendants and insurance identified, and estate issues addressed without losing sight of applicable notice and filing deadlines.

Every case turns on its own facts.

Deadlines, insurance, available parties, and proof can change the analysis. A website cannot determine whether you have a claim.

Related information

How Long Do I Have to File an Injury Claim in Texas?Read the Jake.Law guide.How Does a Texas Personal Injury Claim Work?Read the Jake.Law guide.Learn moreRead the Jake.Law guide.

Request a free case review

Tell us what happened or call 844-JAKE-LAW. Submitting information does not create an attorney-client relationship.

START CASE REVIEW
CALL JAKEFREE CASE REVIEW