
Birmingham Wrongful Death Lawyers
Losing a loved one is a hard thing to go through, no matter what the circumstances. If a person’s life was cut short due to the negligence of another person or institution, justice needs to be served. The wrongful death lawsuit is an important mechanism for achieving that. The lawyers at Frank S. Buck, P.C. have been helping people in Birmingham and the surrounding areas since our founding in 1970.
Call (659) 336-3337 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation. We can meet either in person or virtually, whichever you prefer.
What Are Punitive Damages?
While many states allow families to recover damages for financial losses and emotional pain, Alabama stands out by focusing exclusively on punitive damages in wrongful death cases.

A Legacy of Justice That Runs in the Family
Fighting for the Compensation You Deserve
For over 50 years, we have been fighting and winning for clients just like you. If you've been injured in an accident or as a result of someone else's negligence, call (659) 336-3337 to get our dedicated and compassionate team on your side.
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Frank S. Buck, P.C. has a long track record of successful verdicts and settlements showing our commitment to fighting for clients.
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We prioritze personalized attention, ensuring clients feel heard and supported through every step of the legal process.
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From car accidents to wrongful death and medical malpractice, we offer a wide range of services to meet your legal needs.
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With over 50 years of practice and over 11,000 cases resolved, Frank S. Buck brings a wealth of knowledge to personal injury law.
How Punitive Damages Are Calculated
The amount of punitive damages awarded in a wrongful death case is not predetermined. Instead, it depends on the specific details of the case and is ultimately left to the discretion of the jury or judge.
Factors that influence the amount of punitive damages include:
- The severity of the wrongdoing: The more egregious the act, the higher the punitive damages are likely to be.
- The defendant’s conduct: Courts consider whether the defendant’s actions were intentional, grossly negligent, or the result of repeated poor judgment. A pattern of reckless behavior may lead to a harsher penalty.
- The need for deterrence: If a company or individual’s actions threaten public safety on a larger scale, the court may impose a more substantial award to send a clear message and encourage changes that protect others.
- The defendant’s financial condition: The courts may also consider the wrongdoer’s financial resources. A large corporation may face a higher award than an individual with fewer assets.
While not being able to sue for compensatory damages is an unfortunate limitation, the flip side is this—unlike standard personal injury cases, there is no cap on punitive damages for wrongful death cases in the state of Alabama.
A Personalized and Compassionate Approach
The clients we work with need two things from the lawyer in their wrongful death case. They need an attorney who has a hands-on approach, who understands their pain, and who communicates clearly and with compassion. Clients also need that same attorney to be aggressive when dealing with the insurance companies and the legal system. That kind of balance between personal compassion and professional tenacity is exactly what you get from the dedicated team at Frank S. Buck, P.C..
Call our Birmingham office at (659) 336-3337 today. We work on contingency, so we only collect legal fees if you get a settlement.
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Mr. Buck has worked with my family for years with multiple automobile accidents and I must say he is the best attorney in Birmingham! Everyone in the office is always very welcoming and they treat you like family!
- Former Client -
The very best group of family oriented, professional, and knowledgeable attorneys at law. What was over $100,000 in medical costs alone was paid for and then some.- Mary C.
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Mr. Buck has been representing my family for years since the seventies. He will go above and beyond for his clients to make sure they are treated RIGHT. I highly recommend him!- Anethea T.
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Mr. Frank Buck and his terrific staff walked me through the process and was able to get me a large settlement and take care of medical bills. He had been terrific in answering all my questions and concerns.
- Kalla L. -
Frank Buck and his team are an excellent example of professionalism and dedication. Over the course of my case, they worked very hard to fight for me and get me what I deserved.
- Former Client -
This is the second automobile accident that Mr. Buck has handled with a great result. The office staff is caring and worked around my schedule. I would highly recommend him.- Brandy D.
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Mr. Frank Buck and his staff is very dependable and loyal! They are very hands-on and keep you informed about everything! I am already receiving my check from the settlement - the MAX!- Ferrine R.
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By far the best law firm in the city of Birmingham. All of my needs were met. Without any doubt I would highly recommend him to everyone if you want compassion and integrity!- Tekira L.