Wrongful Death Lawyer Puyallup, WA
Protecting Families After Tragic Loss
- Compassionate representation for grieving families in Puyallup
- Millions recovered in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases
- Decades of trial experience standing up to insurers and corporations
- Free legal consultations and no fees unless we win your case
What Makes a Death “Wrongful”
Under Washington Law?
Not every accidental death qualifies as a wrongful death. In Washington, the law defines a wrongful death as one caused by the negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct of another party. The family of a victim is entitled to bring a civil claim against the responsible party, which is separate from any criminal proceedings.
Your family must follow strict rules and guidelines if you’re considering a wrongful death lawsuit. Our attorneys practicing injury law in Tacoma, WA, provide guidance and clarity regarding:
Your Deadline to File: Wrongful death claims must be filed within three years of the date of death. Waiting longer almost always results in missed recovery.
Who Can File: Spouses, domestic partners, children, and stepchildren typically have priority, but parents or siblings can qualify in certain situations.
How Fault Is Determined: Even if a victim was partially at fault, their family may still recover compensation under Washington’s comparative fault statute, though the damages are reduced proportionally.
We know how busy and stressful life can get after losing a loved one, but taking the time to contact a lawyer opens the path to significant financial recovery and justice served. The team at Cochran Douglas is ready to meet you for a free consultation in Tacoma, Puyallup, or wherever you are. Let us help alleviate some of the burden you’re carrying.
Why Families in Puyallup Choose Cochran Douglas
Our wrongful death team of Cole Douglas, Loren Cochran, and Tiffany Wilke, brings decades of courtroom aptitude to your case.
Bereaved clients in Puyallup and across Washington rely on Cochran Douglas because:
We Deliver Results
From a $60 million wrongful death settlement in the Oso landslide to multimillion-dollar verdicts against negligent institutions, we have proven we can win high-stakes cases.
We Are True Trial Lawyers
Many firms settle quickly, but our attorneys prepare every case for trial. We’re determined to maximize your family’s leverage and ensure defendants take your claim seriously.
We Provide Individualized Service
Cochran Douglas meets families where they are. Your free consultation can take place at our office, your home, or even virtually via Zoom.
We Remove Financial Barriers
We charge no upfront costs, don’t require a retainer, and won’t tack on extra fees if your family’s wrongful death case goes to trial.
“Above and beyond.”
“This is a first-class law firm. They went above and beyond to settle my case, and greatly exceeded my expectations. They are genuine, kind, and compassionate. Cochran Douglas has an amazing staff that will keep you informed through the process and work to ease the anxiety surrounding your case.”
— Daron, 5-Star Review
How We Build Strong Wrongful Death Cases
Our Puyallup wrongful death lawyers leave no stone unturned in:
- Conducting independent investigations and preserving crucial evidence
- Consulting with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and economists
- Gathering testimony from eyewitnesses and first responders
- Analyzing insurance coverage and challenging denials or delays
- Preparing every case for trial while also pursuing settlement opportunities
We also make a point of shielding grieving families from insurance adjusters who only want to minimize payouts. Our attorneys can handle all communications and negotiations so you can focus on healing.
Damages Available to Survivors
Although money cannot replace your loved one, the damages awarded in a wrongful death claim can ease your family’s financial burden and provide a sense of stability. Your compensation may account for:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Outstanding medical bills related to the fatal injury
- Loss of financial support and future earnings
- Loss of services provided to the household
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and care
- Emotional suffering and mental anguish
The wrongful death lawyers at Cochran Douglas carefully calculate the full scope of damages to ensure families are not left with uncovered expenses or undervalued claims.
“You are looking in the right place.”
“If you are looking for attorneys that are sharp, caring, and kind you are looking in the right place. Cochran Douglas office really cares about you and your case. They get back to you right away via email, phone call, they are so professional which is something I was looking for. I just want to say I highly recommend this attorney office. ”
— Natalie, 5-Star Review
Turning Grief into Action
The grief of losing a loved one is overwhelming. Many families in Puyallup also struggle with unexpected financial strain, mounting medical bills, and the pressure of everyday expenses. Filing a wrongful death lawsuit cannot undo the tragedy, but it can provide financial stability for surviving family members.
Pursuing a claim against the responsible party also sends a public message that such negligent behavior is deeply irresponsible and worthy of strict penalties. In the process, your actions could encourage safer practices in workplaces, hospitals, or on Washington roads, helping your family and other surviving families reclaim a sense of justice.
Where Wrongful Deaths Occur in the Puyallup Area
Puyallup’s unique setting in Pierce County means wrongful death cases often stem from local risk factors:
Traffic Hazards
Major arterials such as Highway 512, Meridian Avenue, and 72nd Street East are frequent sites of catastrophic collisions involving commercial trucks and distracted drivers.
Agricultural and Industrial Work
Puyallup’s farming and warehouse economy can involve dangerous equipment and hazardous environments.
Waterways and Parks
Recreational areas like the Puyallup River present drowning risks if safety measures are ignored.
Our attorneys tailor strategies to the unique circumstances of wrongful death cases in Puyallup by rooting investigations in the local landscape. We know Pierce County, and we know how to present a compelling case on your family’s behalf.
You Can Afford a Wrongful Death Lawyer Contingency Fees and Free Consultations in Puyallup
We believe every grieving family deserves quality legal representation, regardless of their financial status. That’s why we offer free consultations in Puyallup and throughout Washington, charge no fees unless we win, and don’t increase our fees if your case goes to trial
Your family can pursue justice without worrying about attorney costs. Call (253) 364-4635 today for a free, confidential consultation.
If your family has lost a loved one due to negligence, our attorneys are here to stand by your side. Cochran Douglas offers proven results, trial-ready experience, and deep compassion for your family. We’re ready to pursue justice on your behalf. We're glad to meet you in Puyallup, at our Tacoma office, or via Zoom. We can schedule on evenings and weekends for your convenience.
“Truly grateful.”
“My family and I are truly grateful for the hard work this team put in for my case. We highly recommend Cole and his entire team for your case.”
— Sombo, 5-Star Review
