Lawsuit against police force highlights role of duty in wrongful death cases
A major metropolitan police force is attempting to defend itself against allegations that it failed to prevent the death of a woman who had been a regular complainant in domestic violence cases. If those bringing the wrongful death lawsuit prevail in court, the decision could reshape the way law enforcement handles situations in which one party claims that his or her life is in jeopardy.
The case in question is a tragedy, regardless of where the blame ultimately lies. The beaten body of a 52-year-old woman was discovered stuffed into a suitcase that was found floating in the San Francisco Bay. The woman was ultimately identified as the mother of an area music artist who he described as “was black, homeless, disabled, chemically addicted and a senior citizen.” Because of her social status, her son claims, her cries for help were ignored by the police.
Family members have brought a civil suit against the San Francisco Police Department, alleging that the police force failed to act upon its duties to protect her from an obvious threat. Generally, Nevada wrongful death lawsuits seek to impose civil penalties on persons or companies that acted — or failed to act — in a way that caused or failed to prevent the untimely demise of another person. These civil actions are common in Las Vegas motor vehicle accidents.
The core of Nevada wrongful death lawsuits is twofold: (1) establishing negligence or wrongdoing and (2) attaining a Nevada jury verdict that rights the wrongs. These judgments frequently include damages for pain and suffering, emotional loss, and lost wages. These two parts often require different strategies, and that is why choosing experienced legal counsel is so important. Contact us today for a free consultation so we can answer your legal questions about pursuing a Las Vegas wrongful death lawsuit.
