Home wrongful death

OKC Wrongful Death Attorneys

Are You in Need of an Oklahoma City Wrongful Death Lawyer?

Unexpectedly losing a loved one is one of the most devastating experiences a family can endure. Knowing that your loss is the result of someone else’s negligence is even more unbearable. If your family is facing this kind of loss in Oklahoma City, you may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party.

At Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC, we help grieving families hold negligent parties accountable, and seek the compensation you need to start rebuild your lives.

Oklahoma personal injury lawyers represent catastrophic injury and wrongful death victims

Why Choose Us Over Other Wrongful Death Attorneys in Oklahoma City

Choosing the right Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer is critical in a wrongful death case. You need an experienced attorney who has the strength and courage to go up against powerful insurance companies and corporations.

Here’s why so many families in Oklahoma City trust Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC:

  • Over 25 years of legal experience – handling high-stakes wrongful death claims across Oklahoma.
  • Ray Maples is a Member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum – reserved for attorneys who have recovered significant verdicts or settlements.
  • Rated Superb by Avvo for legal performance and client satisfaction – backed by strong client testimonials and peer endorsements.
  • AV Rated by Martindale-Hubbell for the highest standards in ethics and legal skill – a distinction based on professional excellence.
  • Member of the Bar of the United States Supreme Court – a national-level credential that reflects experience and trust.
  • Deep ties to the Oklahoma City community and a strong local reputation – we serve our neighbors with care and dedication.
  • A history of securing significant results for families facing tragic losses – with hundreds of millions recovered.

You Deserve Answers. And Justice.

Call (405) 705-5050 to speak with an experienced Oklahoma wrongful death attorney today.

How a Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help

Wrongful death cases are complex, emotionally charged, and legally challenging. You don’t have to navigate this process alone. An experienced Oklahoma wrongful death lawyer from Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC can:

  • Investigate the cause of death and gather vital evidence
  • Identify all liable individuals, companies, or institutions
  • Handle communications with insurance companies
  • Work with medical experts, accident reconstructionists, and economists
  • Calculate all losses, including future income and non-economic damages
  • File a lawsuit and represent your family at trial if needed

Our goal is to take the burden off your shoulders and fight for justice on your behalf.

What's the Legal Process for a Wrongful Death Claim?

Every case is different, but wrongful death claims in Oklahoma typically follow a general process:

  1. Free Consultation – We review the facts, explain your rights, and outline your legal options. This is your chance to ask questions and understand what to expect.
  2. Investigation – Our team collects evidence such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions. We may also consult accident reconstructionists or financial experts to assess the full impact of the loss.
  3. Filing the Claim – We file a wrongful death claim with the appropriate court. Timeliness is critical due to Oklahoma’s statute of limitations.
  4. Discovery – Both sides exchange evidence and take depositions. This stage helps clarify the facts and build a solid foundation for negotiations or trial.
  5. Negotiation – We work to reach a settlement that compensates your family fairly for emotional, financial, and personal losses.
  6. Trial (if needed) – If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we present your case in court with compelling arguments and supporting evidence.

Who Is Eligible to Receive Wrongful Death Damages in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma law allows certain individuals to recover compensation in a wrongful death case. The claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate, often a family member appointed by the court.

Those eligible to receive damages may include:

  • The surviving spouse
  • Children or stepchildren
  • Parents (if the deceased had no spouse or children)
  • Next of kin or legal heirs (in some cases)

The court ensures that the award is distributed fairly based on each person’s relationship with the deceased.

Do You Have a Legitimate Case?

To bring a valid wrongful death claim in Oklahoma, your case must involve the death of a person caused by another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. You must also be able to show that the loss resulted in measurable damages for the surviving family. Situations that may qualify include fatal trucking accidents, medical errors, nursing home abuse, and other preventable incidents.

If you’re unsure whether your loved one’s death qualifies as a wrongful death, we invite you to speak with us in a free consultation. We will review your situation and talk about your options for moving forward with your claim.

What Is the Statute of Limitations in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma law gives you two years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline can mean permanently losing the ability to seek justice and compensation.

Every case is different and there are exceptions. That’s why we strongly encourage you to speak with a qualified attorney about your claim as soon as possible.

Why You Should See an Oklahoma Wrongful Death Lawyer Right Away

Time is critical in wrongful death cases. Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC is here to act swiftly on your behalf. The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the sooner vital evidence can be preserved, witnesses can be interviewed, and your legal strategy can be developed.

Insurance companies are already building their defense. A prompt legal consultation can:

  • Protect your rights from the beginning
  • Prevent you from accepting a lowball settlement
  • Ensure compliance with important deadlines
  • Begin the healing process with trusted legal guidance

What Causes a Wrongful Death?

Wrongful death can arise from nearly any incident involving negligence or misconduct. At Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC, we handle a wide range of cases.

Trucking Accidents

Large commercial trucks can cause fatal collisions when drivers are fatigued, distracted, speeding, or when trucking companies fail to maintain vehicles properly. These cases often involve multiple layers of liability.

Medical Malpractice

When doctors, nurses, or hospitals fail to meet the standard of care, the results can be tragic. Fatal errors include surgical mistakes, misdiagnosis, medication errors, and failure to monitor a patient’s condition.

Nursing Home Neglect & Abuse

Vulnerable seniors can suffer fatal harm from untreated infections, bedsores, malnutrition, falls, or even physical abuse. Facilities must be held accountable when they fail to protect residents.

Birth Injuries

Negligence during labor and delivery can result in the death of a newborn or mother. These heartbreaking cases require experienced handling and deep understanding of medical standards.

Car Accidents

Fatal car crashes are often caused by speeding, distracted driving, DUI, or reckless behavior. When another driver’s negligence causes a death, a wrongful death claim may be filed.

Uber / Lyft Accidents

Rideshare drivers have a duty to drive safely. If a loved one was killed while riding in or struck by an Uber or Lyft vehicle, we can investigate liability and pursue compensation.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians have little protection in traffic. Fatal injuries often occur when drivers fail to yield, speed through crosswalks, or drive under the influence.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable on the road. Fatalities may result from drivers failing to see motorcycles or violating traffic laws.

Dangerous Products

Manufacturers can be held liable for producing or selling defective products that cause death. This includes unsafe medications, faulty vehicle parts, or hazardous consumer goods.

Lost a Loved One Due to Negligence?

Call Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC at (405) 705-5050 for compassionate legal support.

What Compensation Is Available in a Wrongful Death Claim?

In Oklahoma, damages in a wrongful death claim may include both economic and non-economic losses. These may be awarded to the estate and surviving family members, and can include:

  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Medical costs related to the final injury or illness
  • Loss of financial support (past and future)
  • Loss of companionship, guidance, and care
  • Mental pain and suffering of the surviving family
  • Grief of a surviving spouse or parent
  • Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct)

We work with financial experts and economists to calculate the full value of your claim.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

We appreciate your unwavering commitment and support- Cheryl Lowry

We are very thankful for everyone at the firm. They have been very kind and compassionate through what has been the most difficult time of our lives. They were always accessible and responsive when needed; and willing to talk or answer questions as they came up. They helped us to navigate and understand the entire process as well as our options.

We appreciate your unwavering commitment and support. As you know, our Dad was our hero, and took pride in taking care of and protecting others. Thank you for protecting our mom and making her well-being a priority even after the case.

You are an excellent lawyer- Lillie & Family

I really appreciated all your hard work and your kindness shown to me and my children during all these trying times. Continue your good work and may God bless you always. Did not want to seem ungrateful. You are an excellent lawyer.

Speak With a Trusted OKC Wrongful Death Attorney

At Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC, we understand that no amount of money can ever replace a loved one. But holding the responsible party accountable can help provide closure, financial stability, and the knowledge that justice has been served.

We’re here to help you move forward with strength and dignity. With a deep commitment to our clients and a proven track record of results, we are honored to stand with Oklahoma families in their time of need.

Call Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC today at (405) 705-5050 to schedule your free consultation.

You pay nothing unless we win your case.

Wrongful Death FAQs

What is a wrongful death claim in Oklahoma?

A wrongful death claim is a legal action filed when someone dies as a result of another person or entity’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act. It allows surviving family members to seek compensation for both economic and emotional losses caused by the untimely death.

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Oklahoma?

Under Oklahoma law, a wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This is often a close family member, such as a spouse, adult child, or parent, and may be appointed by the court if not already named.

What types of damages can be recovered in a wrongful death case?

Damages can include funeral and burial expenses, medical bills related to the final injury, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, emotional pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages to punish extreme negligence.

How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma’s statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits is typically two years from the date of death. However, some exceptions may apply, so it’s best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.

What kinds of accidents can lead to wrongful death claims?

Wrongful death claims can arise from truck accidents, car crashes, medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, birth injuries, pedestrian or motorcycle accidents, and even defective or dangerous products.

How long does a wrongful death case usually take?

Every case is different. Some may settle in a few months, while others, especially those involving litigation or disputed liability, can take a year or more. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way and work to resolve your case efficiently.

Will filing a wrongful death claim require me to go to court?

Not necessarily. Many wrongful death cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement. However, if the other side refuses to offer fair compensation, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.

How much does it cost to hire Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC for a wrongful death case?

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we recover compensation for your family. If there’s no recovery, there’s no fee.

Meet Our Oklahoma Wrongful Death Attorney

L. Ray Maples II

L. Ray Maples II is the founder of Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC and a trial lawyer with more than 25 years of experience representing individuals and families in high-stakes personal injury and wrongful death cases. Known for his tenacity in the courtroom and his unwavering commitment to his clients, Ray has dedicated his legal career to helping people during the most difficult moments of their lives.

Ray’s journey began in South Georgia, where he was raised by his mother and grandmother, two strong women who instilled in him the values of hard work, resilience, and service to others. After beginning his career at a large Atlanta law firm representing insurance companies, Ray realized his calling was not in defending corporations, but in standing up for real people who had been harmed by negligence and injustice. That realization led him to build a law firm that would do just that.

Over the years, Ray has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for clients injured in trucking accidents, medical malpractice, nursing home neglect, birth injuries, defective product cases, and more.

Additional Wrongful Death Information

Practice Areas