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Phoenix Wrongful Death Lawyers

Losing someone suddenly isn’t just painful—it’s disorienting. You’re grieving, managing the emotional toll, and trying to figure out what comes next. The truth is, when your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s actions, you shouldn’t have to carry the weight alone.

At Torgenson Law, we’ve stood with families across Phoenix after the unthinkable happened. We understand the pain you’re in, and we’re here to help you take the next steps—because pursuing justice isn’t about revenge. It’s about getting answers, finding accountability, and making sure your family has what it needs to move forward.

What Makes Torgenson Law Different?

You don’t need another law firm treating your loss like a case number. You need a team that sees the full weight of your grief and responds with grit, heart, and results.

You Work Directly With Your Lawyer

From day one, you speak with the attorney handling your case. No hand-offs. No confusion. Just one team walking beside you. When you call, we answer. When you need updates, we provide them. You’re never in the dark about your case.

Trial-Ready From the First Day

Insurance companies only offer real compensation when they know your legal team is ready to take them to court. That’s why we prepare every wrongful death case like we’re going to trial—even if we settle. This approach puts pressure on the other side—and often leads to better results, faster.

No Upfront Costs—You Only Pay if We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis. That means we handle all case-related expenses, and you don’t owe us anything unless we recover compensation for your family. You can focus on healing without worrying about legal bills piling up.

Grit, Heart, and Legal Skill

John Torgenson brings Notre Dame training and a blue-collar mindset to every case. That combination means we fight smart, and we fight hard. Our team doesn’t back down—because families like yours deserve more than a settlement mill.

We Fight Like It’s Personal—Because It Is

We know this isn’t just about money. It’s about your family, your future, and making sure this kind of loss doesn’t happen again. That’s why we take on every case like it’s one of our own. We don’t forget the names or the stories behind the claims—we carry them with us.

What You Need to Know About a Wrongful Death Claim

When someone dies because of another person’s reckless or negligent behavior, Arizona law allows surviving family members to take legal action. But this isn’t just a lawsuit—it’s a path to accountability.

What Counts as a Wrongful Death in Arizona

A wrongful death occurs when someone dies due to another person or company’s carelessness, negligence, or misconduct. This could involve a distracted driver, a dangerous property condition, or a defective product.

How Civil Claims Differ From Criminal Charges

Criminal charges are about punishment. Wrongful death claims are about justice and financial recovery for the people left behind. Even if the responsible party isn’t arrested or convicted, you may still have a strong civil case.

Real-Life Situations That May Qualify

Some common examples we’ve handled include:

  • Fatal car crashes involving speeding, DUI, or texting
  • Motorcycle accidents caused by careless drivers
  • Deadly workplace incidents or unsafe construction zones
  • Medical negligence leading to loss of life
  • Dangerous products or equipment failures

If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies, reach out. We’ll give you a clear answer.

Who Has the Right to File a Claim?

Arizona law outlines exactly who can bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Knowing where you stand is the first step toward action. If you’re feeling unsure about whether you’re eligible to file, you’re not alone—many families don’t realize they may have legal standing until they speak with an attorney.

Spouses, Parents, and Children: Who Can Step Forward

Typically, the decedent’s surviving spouse, children, or parents have the legal right to file a wrongful death claim. Arizona law includes both biological and adopted children, as well as legally married spouses and legal guardians. This ensures that close family members can pursue justice, no matter the technicalities of blood relation.

If you’re a parent who lost a child or a child who lost a parent, you have just as much right to take legal action as a spouse would. It doesn’t matter if your child was an adult or if your parent passed away while you were no longer living under their roof—the law still recognizes the magnitude of your loss.

What Happens if There’s No Immediate Family

When someone passes away without a spouse, parent, or child, it doesn’t mean their death goes unanswered. In these situations, Arizona law allows the estate to step in and bring a wrongful death claim on behalf of legal beneficiaries. That can include siblings, grandparents, or anyone listed in the decedent’s will.

If there’s no will, Arizona’s intestate succession rules determine how any recovered compensation is divided. This helps prevent confusion and keeps the process as fair as possible.

When the Estate Brings the Claim Instead

In some cases, it makes the most sense for the estate’s personal representative—often called an executor or administrator—to file the lawsuit. This approach is especially helpful when there are multiple heirs involved, or when young children stand to benefit from the claim.

The representative is responsible for coordinating the legal action and ensuring that any compensation is distributed according to the law. Having one point of contact simplifies communication and helps prevent disputes between surviving family members. This also ensures the lawsuit is handled professionally while grieving families focus on healing.

If you’re unsure who the representative is, or if you’re wondering whether the estate can bring the claim on your behalf, we can help clarify the process and make sure your rights are protected.

The First Steps to Take After Losing a Loved One

When your family is grieving, it’s easy to feel frozen. Everything moves slowly—except the bills, the questions, and the pressure from insurance companies. This is a painful moment, but taking a few clear steps now can make a major difference in your ability to get justice later.

Gather the Death Certificate and Medical Records

Start by requesting an official copy of the death certificate. You’ll need this for everything from insurance claims to probate filings. At the same time, gather all available medical records related to your loved one’s final treatment. If they were hospitalized or treated by multiple providers, request full documentation from each facility.

These records help us show not only what caused the death, but how it happened—and who should be held accountable.

Document Funeral Costs and Other Expenses

Keep every receipt. Funeral and burial expenses, travel costs, memorial services, and time taken off work all add up fast. These expenses are often recoverable in a wrongful death case, but only if we can document them clearly. Start a folder, physical or digital, and keep track of every cost.

Talk to a Lawyer Before You Talk to Insurance

It might feel harmless to take a call from the insurance company—but they’re not on your side. They’re gathering information to minimize their payout. Before you answer any questions or give a recorded statement, talk to us. Once we’re involved, you won’t have to deal with them directly again.

Protecting Your Family’s Future Right Now

This isn’t just about legal paperwork—it’s about your peace of mind. After a sudden, preventable death, families are often bombarded with decisions and distractions. Here’s how to protect your rights while you grieve.

Why You Should Avoid Recorded Statements

Insurance adjusters are trained to sound sympathetic. But their real job is to record your words and look for anything they can use to reduce or deny your claim. Even a simple comment like, “We didn’t see this coming,” can be twisted into an admission that the death was unforeseeable.

Don’t go through this alone. We speak to insurers for you and protect your words from being used against you.

The Importance of Saving Emails, Bills, and Texts

Every document, message, or email connected to your loved one’s passing may help build your case. That includes:

  • Emails from doctors or hospitals
  • Text messages about appointments or symptoms
  • Medical bills or prescription receipts
  • Letters from insurers or employers

These records can provide a timeline, verify treatments, and show exactly how your loved one’s life—and yours—was changed.

Keeping Off Social Media Until You’ve Talked to Us

After a loss, many people turn to social media for comfort. But insurers monitor posts and photos, looking for anything they can use to question the sincerity of your grief or the legitimacy of your claim.

Before posting anything, talk to us. We’ll guide you on what to avoid and how to protect your family’s privacy and legal standing.

What You Can Be Compensated For

Wrongful death claims aren’t about putting a price tag on someone’s life. They’re about holding the negligent party accountable—and making sure your family has what it needs to survive this loss. Arizona law allows families to recover many types of compensation.

Medical Bills Leading Up to the Death

If your loved one received emergency care, underwent surgery, or stayed in a hospital before they passed, those costs are often significant. Ambulance transport, ER visits, medication, and ICU stays are all considered economic damages in a wrongful death case.

We gather itemized bills and medical summaries to ensure every cost is counted.

Funeral and Burial Expenses

These are some of the first bills families face after a loss. From casket selection to memorial services and cemetery costs, these expenses can total thousands of dollars. Arizona law allows these to be recovered, and we work to make sure you’re reimbursed for every part of the process.

Loss of Future Wages and Support

One of the most devastating financial consequences of a wrongful death is the loss of future income. If your loved one provided for the household, their earnings must be replaced. We calculate not just their current income, but projected raises, benefits, and retirement contributions.

We also factor in services they provided—like childcare, housework, or support for aging parents.

The Pain Your Loved One Endured Before They Passed

In Arizona, if the person who died suffered pain or fear between the time of injury and death, that suffering can be compensated. These damages—known as survival damages—are based on what your loved one experienced, not just the financial impact on the family.

We work with medical experts and use available evidence to fully document this aspect of the claim.

What You and Your Family May Be Going Through

Beyond the financial loss, what families experience after a wrongful death is deeply personal—and legally recognized. Arizona courts allow for non-economic damages to reflect the emotional toll a death has on survivors.

Emotional Trauma and Mental Anguish

Losing someone unexpectedly, especially to negligence, can cause intense grief, anxiety, and even PTSD. You may struggle with sleep, experience panic attacks, or find it hard to get through daily routines. We take this seriously, and so does the law.

Therapy bills and professional diagnoses can support your claim, but your story matters most. We help you tell it.

The Loss of a Parent’s Guidance or a Partner’s Love

Children may lose a parent’s daily presence, future advice, and nurturing care. Spouses lose companionship, intimacy, and emotional support. These are intangible losses—but they’re real, and we make sure they’re recognized.

We often use family photos, journals, and personal accounts to help demonstrate what your loved one brought to your life—and what was lost.

How We Calculate Long-Term Needs

We don’t just focus on today’s pain. We work with economists, life care planners, and vocational experts to understand what your family will need next year, five years from now, and decades into the future. From college funds to caregiving support, we fight for a settlement that truly supports the road ahead.

If your loved one was taken from you by someone else’s carelessness, we’re here to help you make sense of what’s next—and fight for what your family needs. Let Torgenson Law take the legal weight off your shoulders so you can focus on healing.

Why Wrongful Death Happens All Too Often

Losing a loved one unexpectedly is heartbreaking—and even more painful when it was preventable. At Torgenson Law, we’ve seen how easily a family’s world can change because of someone else’s careless decision. We help families across Phoenix understand what went wrong and who should be held accountable.

Car Crashes, Truck Wrecks, and Dangerous Roads

Deadly traffic collisions are a leading cause of wrongful death in Arizona. Whether it’s a speeding driver on the I-10, a distracted trucker on the 202, or an intersection with poor visibility, these crashes often leave families with no warning and devastating grief. We dig into police reports, dashcam footage, and witness statements to uncover what really happened.

Mistakes in Surgery or Hospital Neglect

Medical errors are one of the most painful ways families lose someone. When a trusted provider fails to act—or acts recklessly—the consequences are irreversible. We review records, consult with medical experts, and ask the hard questions: Was a condition misdiagnosed? Was a known complication ignored? Did someone fail to monitor vital signs or administer the right medication?

Unsafe Work Environments

Jobs in construction, manufacturing, and other high-risk fields can turn deadly when safety rules are ignored. Employers who cut corners or fail to train staff properly can be held accountable. We examine OSHA records, company safety policies, and previous incidents to expose patterns of neglect.

Faulty Machinery, Tools, or Products

Whether it’s a defective car part or a consumer product that failed, manufacturers have a duty to ensure their goods are safe. When they don’t, lives are lost—and they must be held responsible. We work with engineers and product safety experts to trace how and why a defect led to tragedy.

Who Can Be Held Accountable

When a wrongful death occurs, it’s not always clear who is responsible. That’s where we come in. At Torgenson Law, we investigate every angle to find every liable party.

Drivers, Doctors, Employers, and Corporations

Wrongful death claims often involve more than one party. A distracted driver, a negligent surgeon, or a careless supervisor—each could bear some responsibility. In some cases, it’s a company or institution that fostered a culture of carelessness. We examine all players and hold each one to account.

Companies That Put Profits Over Safety

When safety is treated as optional, it costs lives. We’ve gone up against corporations that ignored known hazards, skipped essential maintenance, or rushed unsafe products to market. Our goal is to make sure no family has to suffer because someone valued profit more than human life.

Government Entities When Infrastructure Fails

Poorly maintained roads, broken traffic lights, or unmarked hazards can contribute to fatal accidents. In these cases, city or state agencies may share the blame. Filing a claim against the government is complex—but we’ve done it. We know the deadlines and legal procedures, and we don’t back down.

How We Prove the Other Side Was Negligent

To win a wrongful death case, we need to do more than tell your story—we need to prove it. And that starts by showing the other party had a duty to act with care, failed to do so, and caused a loss that never should have happened.

We Show They Had a Responsibility

Drivers are required to follow traffic laws. Doctors are expected to follow medical standards. Employers must provide safe workplaces. Every case begins with identifying what the other party was supposed to do—and how they failed.

We Prove They Failed to Meet It

We gather evidence showing what should’ve happened and how reality fell short. That might mean reviewing surveillance footage, employee manuals, patient charts, or vehicle maintenance logs. Our legal team works with experts in every field to break down these failures.

We Connect Their Actions to Your Family’s Loss

It’s not enough to show someone made a mistake—we have to prove that mistake led directly to your loved one’s death. We gather medical records, autopsy reports, accident reconstructions, and expert opinions to draw a clear, undeniable connection.

What Evidence We Gather to Back It All Up

Our team builds every case like it’s going to trial. That means we move quickly to preserve and collect:

  • Police and crash reports
  • Photos and video footage
  • Eyewitness testimony
  • Medical expert reviews
  • Safety records and internal memos
  • Product defect analyses

We don’t rely on the other side’s version of events. We build a case rooted in facts—and we make sure your family’s voice is heard.

What We Do When They Deny It’s Their Fault

Insurance companies, hospitals, and corporations rarely admit they did anything wrong. That’s why we come prepared for a fight.

We Push Back With Expert Testimony and Proof

We work with nationally recognized experts—doctors, accident reconstructionists, engineers—who can clearly explain what went wrong and why it mattered. Their testimony adds weight to your case and challenges the other side’s denial.

We Don’t Rely on Their Story—We Build Our Own

You deserve better than a one-sided account from a self-interested company. We conduct independent investigations and follow the facts wherever they lead. We find the holes in their timeline, the inconsistencies in their report, and the documents they hoped no one would request.

If They Won’t Settle Fairly, We Take It to Court

We always try to resolve cases quickly so families can move forward—but we never accept less than what your family needs. If they lowball the settlement or refuse to take responsibility, we take the case to trial. And we’re ready. We prepare every case like that’s where it’s headed—because sometimes, it is.

Your family deserves accountability. Torgenson Law is ready to fight for it.

What Insurance Companies Hope You Don’t Know

The days and weeks after a wrongful death are a blur. While you’re reeling from the loss of someone you love, insurance companies are already strategizing. They’re not looking out for your family. They’re looking for ways to limit what they owe.

They Delay and Deny Hoping You’ll Settle for Less

Insurers know that grief makes people vulnerable. They stall on purpose—delaying paperwork, ignoring calls, or acting like the process takes longer than it actually does. They hope the longer you wait, the more desperate you’ll become. That’s when they swoop in with a lowball offer, counting on you to accept it just to make the stress stop.

We don’t let that happen. From the moment we take your case, we move quickly to lock down evidence, push the process forward, and prevent the insurance company from dragging it out.

They Use Grief Against You

Insurance adjusters might sound sympathetic. But every question they ask has a purpose—and it’s not to help. They’ll push you to make statements, sign documents, or even hint that you’re partially at fault for what happened. They know your guard is down, and they’ll take advantage of that if they can.

We step in before they get the chance. Once we’re on your case, they talk to us, not you.

We Shield You From That Entire Process

You shouldn’t have to deal with calls, emails, and fine print while you’re mourning. Torgenson Law handles every communication with the insurance company, so you don’t have to. We make sure nothing slips through the cracks, and we push back hard when they try to undervalue your loss.

How We Help You Through This Fight

You’re facing the most painful chapter of your life. You shouldn’t also have to figure out the legal system. Our job is to take the weight off your shoulders while fighting for everything your family is owed.

We Handle Every Conversation, Filing, and Deadline

From the first consultation to the final resolution, we handle every part of your case. That includes filing the lawsuit, dealing with opposing counsel, negotiating with insurers, and making sure every legal deadline is met. You never have to wonder if something’s being missed—we stay on top of it all.

We Investigate While You Focus on Healing

Building a strong wrongful death case means more than just paperwork. We investigate the full story—interviewing witnesses, collecting records, and pulling in details that might otherwise go unnoticed. Whether it’s a fatal crash, a medical mistake, or a workplace disaster, we work to uncover the truth.

While we’re doing that, you can take the time to be with your family and focus on healing. We keep you updated, but we don’t burden you with every little detail unless you want to be involved.

We Bring in Experts to Strengthen Your Case

The other side will try to downplay your loss, especially when it comes to future income or non-financial damages. That’s why we bring in economic experts, life planners, and specialists who can help us show the full impact of your loss—on your family’s finances, your emotional well-being, and your future.

These professionals help us build a case that goes beyond the obvious, so that no part of your story gets overlooked or ignored.

What to Look for in a Lawyer After a Loss

Losing a loved one because of someone else’s negligence is one of the hardest things you’ll ever face. When you’re grieving, the last thing you want is to navigate a complex legal battle alone. The right lawyer can make all the difference—not just in the outcome of your case, but in how supported you feel during the process. Here’s what to look for if you’re considering hiring a wrongful death attorney.

Proven Experience With Wrongful Death Cases

Wrongful death cases aren’t like other personal injury claims. They involve unique legal standards, complex damages, and emotionally charged details. You need a lawyer who knows this landscape—someone who’s successfully handled similar cases and understands how to build a powerful claim from day one.

At Torgenson Law, we’ve stood by families who were blindsided by loss. We know how to uncover the truth, push back against insurance tactics, and pursue the full compensation the law allows.

A Firm That’s Courtroom-Ready

Many firms will say they’re willing to fight. Few are truly prepared to go to trial. Insurance companies know who’s bluffing and who’s ready for court. That’s why it’s critical to choose a law firm that prepares every case for litigation.

We approach each claim like it could go the distance. That gives us more leverage in negotiations—and sends a message to the other side: you can’t lowball this family and expect to walk away.

Real Connection, Not Just a Contract

You’re not hiring a service—you’re trusting someone with your family’s story. Look for a lawyer who listens, who understands what you’re going through, and who treats you like a human being—not a file on a desk. That connection matters. It’s what turns a painful legal process into a path toward healing.

From your first call to your final resolution, we’ll keep you informed, supported, and respected.

No Surprises When It Comes to Fees

The financial impact of a sudden loss can be overwhelming. The last thing you need is a surprise bill from your lawyer. We work on a contingency basis, which means you pay nothing up front. We only get paid if we win your case. No hourly rates. No hidden fees. Just a promise to fight for your family like it’s our own.

Why Families Trust Torgenson Law in Phoenix

Families across Arizona come to us when everything is on the line. We don’t take that lightly. Here’s why so many trust us to guide them through the worst chapters of their lives.

We Know Arizona Law—and We Know How to Win

We’ve spent years handling wrongful death cases in Phoenix and across the state. We know the statutes. We know the courts. And we know how to hold negligent parties accountable—whether that’s an individual, a corporation, or a government agency.

You’re Not Just a Case to Us

We say it often because it’s true: when your recovery matters, we take it personally. Our firm was built to serve people who’ve been knocked down and don’t know where to turn. You’ll never be treated like a number or pushed toward a quick settlement.

We Don’t Settle for What’s Easy—We Fight for What’s Right

Some law firms avoid trial at all costs. That’s not us. We’re not afraid to take your case to court if that’s what it takes to get justice. And because the other side knows that, we often secure better outcomes—without ever stepping into a courtroom.

We’ll Walk With You Every Step of the Way

You’re already carrying enough. We’ll handle the legal burden so you can focus on what matters: remembering your loved one and rebuilding your life. From investigating the case to filing claims, from negotiating settlements to going to trial—we’re in this with you, every step of the way.

Get the Answers—and the Accountability—Your Family Deserves

You’ve already been through the unimaginable. You shouldn’t also have to fight alone for answers, accountability, or financial stability. Whether your loss was caused by a car crash, medical mistake, or workplace negligence, your family deserves to be heard—and compensated.

Torgenson Law is here to make sure you don’t have to carry this legal fight on your own. We bring the skill, heart, and trial experience needed to hold the other side accountable and give your loved one the dignity of a full investigation. We won’t let insurance companies delay or deny your family’s future.

When you call us, we listen. When we take your case, we commit fully. Because to us, it’s not just about compensation—it’s about justice, closure, and helping you move forward without unanswered questions.

If you’re ready to talk, we’re ready to help. Contact Torgenson Law today for a free, no-pressure consultation. We’ll explain your options, answer your questions, and help you decide the best path forward. This is your story. Let’s fight for the ending your loved one deserves.

Client Testimonial: 5/5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“I received more than 10x what was initially offered me by the other party’s insurance agency and they were incredibly kind and professional.” -Emma D.

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