Colorado Springs Wrongful Death Lawyer

Wrongful Death Lawyer in Colorado Springs, CO


Losing a loved one is an unimaginable tragedy, but when it happens because of someone else’s negligence, the impact can be even harder to bear. The experienced Colorado Springs wrongful death attorneys at Shakeshaft Law Firm are here to help families pursue justice and financial recovery after a tragedy. If you’re facing overwhelming grief, financial stress, and questions about your legal rights, our compassionate team is ready to guide you through every step of the process. Contact our Colorado Springs wrongful death attorneys online or by calling 719-230-0307.

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims in Colorado


Wrongful death in Colorado is defined as a loss of life caused by the careless, reckless, or intentional acts of another person or entity. These claims give families the legal right to seek compensation for both financial and emotional losses.

Some common scenarios leading to wrongful death claims include:

  • Auto accidents, including fatal car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian crashes
  • Medical malpractice, such as surgical errors or misdiagnoses
  • Workplace accidents, especially in construction and warehouse environments
  • Defective or dangerous products
  • Nursing home neglect or abuse
  • Violent crimes

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Colorado Springs?


Colorado law determines who is eligible to file a wrongful death claim:

  • The surviving spouse has the exclusive right to file during the first year after death.
  • In the second year, children and the spouse may file, as well as a designated beneficiary named in a will.
  • If there is no spouse or children, parents and (as of 2025) siblings may be eligible to file a claim.

Recent legislative updates (House Bill 24-1472) have expanded eligibility to include siblings when no other close family survives. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, consult a Colorado Springs wrongful death attorney for guidance.

Types of Compensation We Secure for Clients


Compensation in a wrongful death claim can address a variety of economic and non-economic damages, including:

  • Medical expenses incurred before death
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Loss of financial support and benefits
  • Loss of household services
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of companionship and guidance

As of 2025, the cap on non-economic damages has increased to $2,125,000, and these caps will be adjusted for inflation every two years. Medical malpractice wrongful death damages have their own higher cap, rising to $1,575,000 over five years.

The Wrongful Death Lawsuit Process


Filing a wrongful death claim in Colorado Springs involves several steps. Here’s what families can expect:

  1. Meet with a wrongful death attorney to assess eligibility and build a case.
  2. Gather and preserve evidence, such as accident reports and medical records.
  3. File the lawsuit within the statute of limitations—generally two years from the date of death.
  4. Attempt to resolve the claim through negotiation and settlement.
  5. Go to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Most wrongful death claims are resolved through settlement, but a skilled attorney will be prepared to take your case to court if necessary.

Colorado Springs Wrongful Death FAQs


Who is eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Colorado Springs?

Surviving spouses have exclusive rights in the first year, followed by children, designated beneficiaries, and—beginning in 2025—siblings if no other close relatives survive.

What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Colorado Springs?

Generally, you have two years from the date of death to file a claim. Acting promptly helps preserve your legal rights.

What damages can be recovered?

Families may recover economic damages (like medical bills and lost income) and non-economic damages (such as pain, suffering, and loss of companionship). As of 2025, the cap for non-economic damages has increased, providing greater potential recovery.

Can wrongful death claims be settled out of court?

Yes, most claims are resolved through negotiation. An attorney can help ensure you receive a fair settlement.

Why choose a Colorado Springs wrongful death lawyer?

A local attorney understands state laws, the latest legal updates, and the unique factors in Colorado Springs courts, which can help maximize your recovery.

Additional Information in Colorado Springs, Colorado


  • National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) - Workplace Fatality Investigations: Offers comprehensive information on workplace fatalities and safety regulations, including detailed reports on individual incidents. It provides valuable insights into the causes of workplace accidents and the measures needed to prevent them, making it essential for wrongful death claims involving workplace mishaps.
  • Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) - Product Recalls: The CPSC maintains an extensive list of current and past product recalls, highlighting hazardous products that could cause injury or death. This resource is crucial for wrongful death cases involving defective products, providing evidence of manufacturing flaws and safety oversights
  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) - Worker Fatalities: OSHA provides detailed reports and statistics on worker fatalities, including findings from wrongful death inspections and investigations. These reports aim to enhance workplace safety standards and prevent future incidents by identifying common hazards and regulatory non-compliance.

    Contact Shakeshaft Law Firm Today to Start Building Your Defense


    Losing a loved one is often a devastating experience that alters the lives of those around the deceased. If you are dealing with the death of a loved one or family member due to the wrongful actions of another individual, we encourage you to reach out to the Shakeshaft Law Firm today for expert legal guidance. We have the compassion and expertise to help you through the legal process and seek the compensation that you deserve.