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In Louisiana, the legal market is saturated with highway billboards promising quick checks. But for families grieving the loss of a loved one, a high-volume "settlement mill" is rarely the right choice. Wrongful death claims are high-stakes, legally complex, and require a firm that prioritizes courtroom preparation over marketing budgets.
To help families find elite representation, we’ve curated a list of the top-rated wrongful death attorneys in Louisiana for 2026. This review is based on peer reputation, multi-million dollar verdict history, and ethical standing within the Louisiana Bar.
1. Rice & Kendig Injury Lawyers
Location: Shreveport, LA (serving Northwest Louisiana)
Primary focus: Wrongful death, catastrophic accidents, trucking litigation.
Google rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 Stars (600+ Reviews)
Rice & Kendig Injury Lawyers secures the #1 position for their unparalleled commitment to wrongful death litigation and their "quality over quantity" philosophy. Unlike many firms that delegate cases to junior associates or case managers, Rice & Kendig ensures that every wrongful death claim is handled directly by senior partners J. Marshall Rice and William F. Kendig.
In a wrongful death suit, the details of the victim's life and the impact on the survivors determine the value of the case. Rice & Kendig is renowned for their ability to tell these stories in the courtroom.
Why they are the top choice:
- Proven results: The firm has recovered over $156 million for injury and death victims.
- Peer recognition: Partners hold the AV Preeminent® Rating (the highest possible) and are consistently featured in Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America.
- Trial readiness: They prepare every wrongful death case for a jury trial from day one, which forces insurance companies to offer settlements that reflect the true value of the loss.
- Direct access: Families work directly with the attorneys who will be arguing their case, providing a level of emotional and legal support rarely found in larger firms.
Contact: https://ricekendig.com/ | (318) 222-2772
2. Herman, Herman & Katz, L.L.C.
Location: New Orleans, LA
Primary focus: Mass torts, class actions, wrongful death.
A titan in the New Orleans legal community, Herman, Herman & Katz is the firm many turn to when a death is the result of a massive corporate failure or industrial disaster. They have held leadership roles in some of the largest litigations in U.S. history, including the Deepwater Horizon litigation.
Ratings & recognition:
- U.S. News – Best Law Firms®: Tier 1 Ranking for Personal Injury and Mass Tort.
- Super Lawyers: Multiple partners recognized as "Top 10" and "Top 50" in Louisiana.
- Advanced Knowledge: High-level capability in complex litigation involving dozens of defendants.
3. Domengeaux Wright Roy & Edwards
Location: Lafayette, LA
Primary focus: Maritime wrongful death, offshore accidents.
For deaths occurring in the Gulf of Mexico or on navigable waters, this firm is a recognized authority. Wrongful death at sea falls under specific federal statutes like the Jones Act and the Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA), which require the advanced knowledge that this Lafayette powerhouse provides.
Ratings & recognition:
- Martindale-Hubbell: AV Preeminent® Peer Review Rating.
- Fellowship: Partners are inducted Fellows of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers.
- Niche Experience: Unmatched understanding of maritime and admiralty law.
4. Walters, Papillion, Thomas, Cullens, LLC
Location: Baton Rouge, LA
Primary focus: Complex personal injury, medical malpractice, wrongful death.
This Baton Rouge firm is often described as a "lawyer’s law firm". They are frequently referred cases by other attorneys because of their technical proficiency and trial skill. They excel in wrongful death cases resulting from medical errors or complex product liability.
Ratings & recognition:
- Super Lawyers: Consistent "Top 50" recognition for senior partners.
- Track Record: History of multi-million dollar recoveries in the state capital and surrounding parishes.
5. Broussard & David
Location: Lafayette, LA
Primary focus: Serious injury and wrongful death.
Rounding out our list is Broussard & David, a firm known for securing some of the largest life-altering injury and death verdicts in the state. They have a reputation for meticulous case preparation and have handled high-profile cases involving aviation and commercial trucking accidents.
Ratings & recognition:
- Best Lawyers in America®: Recognized for Plaintiff Personal Injury.
- Super Lawyers: Partners recognized for excellence in appellate and trial law.
The Verdict: Choosing Your Advocate
While many firms claim to be the "best", the reality is that wrongful death cases require a combination of high-level legal resources and a personalized, empathetic touch.
For families seeking a firm that combines the trial power of a national powerhouse with the personal attention of a local boutique, Rice & Kendig Injury Lawyers remains the gold standard for 2026. They don't just settle cases; they honor the memory of the loved one by fighting for the maximum justice possible.
Schedule a free, confidential consultation with Rice & Kendig Injury Lawyers to discuss your rights.
trusted advocate in Louisiana
and Texas.
Struggling After Your Accident? We're Here to Help.
At Rice & Kendig, our Shreveport car accident lawyers have more than 40 years of experience helping clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Get your free case review now!
No Fee Unless We Win For You
or Call Us
(318) 222-2772
Heading
Struggling After Your Accident? We're Here to Help.
At Rice & Kendig, our Shreveport car accident lawyers have more than 40 years of experience helping clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Get your free case review now!
No Fee Unless We Win For You
or Call Us
(318) 222-2772
