Dallas Criminal Shooting Victim Lawyer
Results-Oriented Legal Representation for Criminal Shooting Victims in Texas
No one expects to be shot. Unfortunately, gun violence remains a serious problem, and innocent victims can be caught in the crossfire in a wide range of frightening scenarios. If you were recently shot by a criminal, you’ve likely already spoken to the police, but they are only interested in criminal prosecution. They aren’t concerned with getting you the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, lost income from missed work, and other damages.
That’s where MR.LAW Accident & Injury Attorneys comes in. In addition to exploring legal action against the shooter, our experienced Dallas criminal shooting victim attorneys can help identify third parties whose negligence may have contributed to the incident. We recognize the devastating consequences that come with being shot and are ready to help you get the just compensation you need to move forward.
Learn more about how we may be able to help you recover compensation by scheduling a free, no-obligation consultation. Contact us online or call (469) 689-0200 today.
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Who Can Be Held Liable for a Texas Criminal Shooting?
Determining third-party liability for a criminal shooting is complex and depends on a variety of factors, including where the incident occurred, who was involved, how it happened, and even what weapons were used. Our team at MR.LAW Accident & Injury Attorneys understands how to investigate these cases and identify all potentially liable parties.
Depending on the circumstances, our Dallas criminal shooting victim lawyers may be able to pursue legal action against:
- The shooter. The most obvious liable party is the individual who actually committed the shooting. You can pursue a civil lawsuit no matter what happens with a criminal case.
- Accomplices. Any individuals who aided or abetted the shooter before, during, or after the commission of the crime could also be held liable.
- Property owners. The owner of the property where the shooting took place can be held liable if it is determined that they failed to implement adequate security measures or allowed a dangerous environment to persist. This can apply to various settings, including residential properties, businesses, and public venues.
- Employers. If the shooting occurred in a workplace setting, the employer might be held liable, particularly if there were known threats or a history of violence involving employees. Like other property owners, employers are expected to provide a reasonably safe working environment and can become liable for negligent security.
- Event staff. In instances where a shooting happens during a public event, event staff or organizers could be held liable if it is found that they did not implement sufficient security measures to protect attendees. This includes ensuring proper screening procedures, adequate security personnel, and emergency response plans. Failure to address known safety concerns or ignoring potential threats can lead to legal consequences for negligence.
- Security personnel. Security personnel may also be held liable in the event of a criminal shooting, especially if it is determined that they were negligent in their duties. This can include failing to properly monitor entrances, conduct searches, or respond adequately to threats as they emerge. Security guards and agencies are entrusted with the safety of individuals in a given area, and any lapses in their responsibilities that contribute to a shooting could result in liability.
- Alcohol-serving establishments. Establishments that serve alcohol, such as bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, can also be held liable in the event of a criminal shooting if the shooter was intoxicated at the time of the incident. Under Texas dram shop laws, these establishments may face legal consequences if it can be proven that they served alcohol to an intoxicated person who subsequently committed a shooting. The staff of these establishments are expected to exercise caution and adhere to regulations regarding the overserving of alcohol, and failure to do so can result in significant liability.
- Gun sellers and manufacturers. Liability can extend to those who sold the firearm or ammunition if it can be proven that they did so illegally or without following proper background checks. Additionally, gun manufacturers might be held accountable if the weapon malfunctioned due to a defect.
- Parents or guardians. In cases involving a shooter who is a minor, their parents or legal guardians may face liability. Texas law mandates that gun owners must securely store firearms, particularly when minors are present. Failure to comply with these safety measures can result in criminal charges and civil liability.
Discuss your options for recovering compensation after a criminal shooting with us today by calling (469) 689-0200 or contacting us online.
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How Does Criminal Prosecution Affect My Ability to Recover Compensation after a Shooting?
First, it is important to note that criminal prosecution and seeking compensation through a civil lawsuit are two distinct legal processes. Criminal prosecution focuses on punishing the offender for violating the law, while civil lawsuits aim to provide financial compensation to victims for their losses. The outcome of one process does not necessarily affect the other.
With that said, if the shooter who harmed you or any other liable party is convicted in criminal court, this can substantially strengthen your civil case. A criminal conviction serves as compelling evidence of wrongdoing, which can be used to support claims for damages in your civil lawsuit.
However, the outcome of a criminal case does not necessarily determine the success of a civil claim. Even if the shooter in your case is not convicted or criminal charges are dropped, you still have the right to pursue compensation through the civil courts. Civil cases also have a lower burden of proof than criminal cases. While a criminal conviction requires proof "beyond a reasonable doubt," civil liability only needs to be established "by a preponderance of the evidence," meaning it is more likely than not that the defendant is responsible.
Keep in mind that our Dallas criminal shooting victim attorneys want to help you recover the compensation you need to cover your losses and move forward. This means we may not necessarily pursue civil legal action against the shooter themselves if we do not think doing so will help you secure sufficient compensation. Instead, we may recommend taking legal action against other liable parties with insurance policies that cover these types of incidents. We can walk you through what this process looks like and answer any questions you may have.
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What Damages Can I Recover after Suffering Injuries in a Texas Criminal Shooting?
Generally, you will have two years from the date of the shooting to file lawsuits against liable parties. You can only typically recover compensation if you start the legal process within this two-year window, which is why it is so important to get legal advice as soon as possible after a shooting.
Our team can work to get you maximum compensation for economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
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I have worked with this office on many different life care plans for personal injury cases and each time it’s been wonderful. Attorney Raphael and Attorney Mathias are both very forthcoming and handle each case with care. I would definitely recommend them!- Brandy C.
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Damon is the one attorney who took my case when others would not consider it. He is good at explaining the next steps and possible outcomes. Professionalism shows through in all he does. I recommend him for your legal matter.
- Carolyn -
Mr. Mathias went above and beyond when I got in an automobile accident making the situation stress free. He allowed me to concentrate on getting a new vehicle and getting the appropriate treatment instead of worrying about medical bills and settlements.
- James -
Truly amazing Attorney! This guy went above and beyond my expectations, from a broken wired up jaw. To a well deserved settlement. Thanks again!
- S. Plowden -
MR.LAW Accident & Injury Attorneys handled our case well and gave us a better outcome than we could have ever imagined. Thanks to Damon, Ori and their entire team!
- Eric B. -
Ori gives it his all to fight for you!- Amir A
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These guys are great! Ori really went above and beyond and every time I needed good advice or help, he was there for me.- R.J.
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Mr. Raphael was very helpful and responsive to our needs. He provided excellent service with polite,gentle and sensitive care,from the time he greeted us all through the process. I felt very confident trusting him with our case and he came through for us and got us more than we imagined.- Avi P.