Experienced wrongful death representation for families in Sierra Vista, Cochise County, and throughout Arizona.
No legal fees unless we win · Serving all of Cochise County
Wrongful death cases in Sierra Vista typically arise when a fatal accident results from someone else's negligence — a driver running a red light, a commercial truck operating unsafely on a state highway, or a pedestrian struck by an impaired driver. Under Arizona law (ARS § 12-611), when a death is caused by a wrongful act, neglect, or default that would have supported a personal injury claim had the person survived, the responsible party remains liable. For families navigating this process in Cochise County, understanding who can file, what damages are available, and how long you have to act is the practical starting point.
Sierra Vista's road network creates conditions that appear regularly in wrongful death cases. SR-90 and SR-92 are primary corridors connecting the city to surrounding communities and Interstate 10, carrying a mix of local traffic, commercial trucks, and military vehicles serving Fort Huachuca. Fry Boulevard, the city's main commercial corridor, sees significant pedestrian and vehicle interaction at busy intersections. Fatal highway crashes, pedestrian fatalities, drunk driving deaths, commercial truck fatalities, and intersection collisions are among the most common case types in this area. Each scenario may involve different liable parties — individual drivers, trucking companies, or potentially a government entity if road conditions contributed.
Arizona's wrongful death statute of limitations gives surviving family members two years from the date of death — not the accident date — to file a claim under ARS § 12-542(2). If a public entity or public employee may share responsibility, two separate and shorter deadlines apply: a 180-day notice of claim under ARS § 12-821.01, and a one-year lawsuit deadline under ARS § 12-821. Both must be met. Canyon Vista Medical Center, a Level IV trauma facility, is the primary hospital serving Sierra Vista. Preserving medical records from that facility, along with accident reports and witness information, is important to building a complete case. Wrongful death lawsuits in this area are filed in Cochise County Superior Court.
Henry has practiced personal injury law in Arizona for 17+ years and represents clients throughout the state, including families in Sierra Vista and Cochise County. If you have questions about a wrongful death case, he offers free consultations and charges no legal fees unless he recovers on your behalf. To speak with an experienced wrongful death lawyer serving Sierra Vista, call (480) 899-9019.
Real settlements, prepared like trials — by a lawyer who started his career prosecuting cases.
Uninsured Motorist
Pre-trial recovery for client struck by an uninsured driver. Pursued claim through client's own UM coverage.
Auto Accident
Client suffered multiple injuries in a vehicle collision. Settlement covered medical bills and lost wages.
Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different. Results listed include cases where Henry Beam served as lead or co-lead counsel.
If a Government Entity Was Involved — Shorter Deadlines Apply
When the at-fault party may be a government entity — a city or county, a public school, a state agency, ADOT, a police or sheriff department, a public hospital, or a government-owned road or vehicle — Arizona imposes two deadlines that are much shorter than the general two-year period:
Missing the 180-day notice typically bars the claim entirely, regardless of how strong the case is. Early legal review helps identify whether a government defendant applies and protects both deadlines.
The full guide to wrongful death cases in Arizona
Statewide overview — claims, injuries, compensation, and what to expect.
Henry is here to listen. There is no pressure and no cost for the first conversation — just a chance to understand your options for your family.
Free consultation · No legal fees unless we recover for your family
Serving Sierra Vista and all of Arizona — phone, video, or in person.
No upfront fees. No legal fees unless we recover money for you.
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(480) 899-9019 — free consultation
