Tuscaloosa Wrongful Death Lawyer
Justice for Alabama Families
When a loved one is taken by someone else’s wrongdoing, Alabama law allows you to seek justice. Attorney Randal S. Ford and the Ford Firm help families across Tuscaloosa and throughout Alabama pursue accountability under the Alabama Wrongful Death Act.
📞 Call 205-454-7500 — Free consultation • No fee unless we recover
Ford Firm • 705 27th Avenue, Suite A • Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Why Choose the Ford Firm for a Wrongful Death Case?
Alabama-Focused Strategy
Alabama’s wrongful death law is unique: damages are punitive only and distributed to heirs according to Alabama’s statute of distributions, not through the estate. Our strategy is designed for these rules, from opening the estate and appointing a personal representative to preserving evidence of misconduct.
Rapid Investigation
We move fast to secure evidence — scene data, vehicle black boxes, medical records, 911 recordings — and send litigation holds to prevent defendants from destroying key proof. We work with experts in accident reconstruction, trucking safety, product defects, and medical negligence.
Local Insight, Statewide Reach
Based in Tuscaloosa, we represent clients throughout Alabama. We identify the right venue, meet government notice deadlines, and pursue all responsible parties — drivers, employers, manufacturers, and healthcare providers.
Common Grounds for an Alabama Wrongful Death Claim
- Motor Vehicle & Trucking Accidents — DUI, reckless driving, truck safety violations, roadway hazards
- Medical Negligence — misdiagnosis, surgical errors, nursing home neglect, birth injuries
- Workplace & Industrial — unsafe machinery, OSHA violations, toxic exposures, explosions
- Defective Products & Premises — auto defects, unsafe consumer products, dangerous property conditions
Helpful Answers for Families
- Wrongful Death vs. Survival Claim
Wrongful death punishes misconduct. Survival claims (if available) address pre-death injuries. - What if criminal charges are pending?
A civil wrongful death claim can proceed alongside criminal prosecution. - What about medical bills and funeral costs?
Wrongful death damages don’t include these costs, but other claims may help cover them. - What if the defendant is a city or county?
Special notice and timing rules apply. Contact us immediately.
Alabama Wrongful Death Law — The Essentials
- Who files the lawsuit?
Only a personal representative (executor or administrator) can bring the claim. We help families open estates and obtain the appointment quickly. - What is the time limit?
Generally, lawsuits must be filed within two years of death. Some government-related cases have shorter deadlines. - What damages are available?
Alabama allows punitive damages only — meant to punish and deter wrongful conduct, not compensate for financial loss. - How are proceeds distributed?
Any recovery bypasses the estate and is distributed directly to heirs under Alabama law. Estate creditors cannot take from it.
Statutes:
- Ala. Code § 6-5-410 (Wrongful Death)
- Ala. Code § 6-5-391 (Wrongful Death of a Minor)
Our Process for Wrongful Death Cases
- Immediate Action: Preserve evidence, open the estate, and secure appointment of the personal representative.
- Investigation: Accident reconstruction, corporate records, medical and product reviews.
- Expert Team: Specialists in safety, medicine, engineering, and corporate conduct.
- Case Building: Show the jury the full scope of the defendant’s wrongdoing.
- Filing & Venue: File under Ala. Code § 6-5-410 or § 6-5-391 for minors; comply with notice rules.
- Resolution: Settlement negotiations or trial before a Tuscaloosa County jury.
FAQ's
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Alabama?
Only the court-appointed personal representative can file. Parents may file for a minor’s death within the first six months; afterward, the representative must proceed.
What damages are available in Alabama wrongful death cases?
Only punitive damages — based on the seriousness of the wrongdoing and need to deter others.
Who receives the settlement money?
Heirs receive the proceeds directly under Alabama law. Funds bypass the estate and creditors.
Are wrongful death settlements taxable?
It depends on the circumstances. We coordinate with tax professionals so families understand any implications.
Do I need an attorney?
Yes. Because damages are punitive only, strong evidence of misconduct is critical. An experienced Alabama wrongful death attorney can preserve evidence and maximize accountability.
Talk to a Tuscaloosa Wrongful Death Lawyer
Speak directly with Attorney Randal S. Ford. We’ll explain your rights, deadlines, and the exact steps to protect your family.
Call 205-454-7500 or visit us at 705 27th Avenue, Suite A, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401.
