Columbus GA Negligent Security Wrongful Death Lawyers
Are You in Need of a Columbus GA Negligent Security Wrongful Death Attorney?
Losing a loved one to an act of violence is devastating. It can feel even more tragic when you find out it was preventable. In far too many cases, businesses and property owners fail to provide adequate security in areas known for crime, leaving residents, tenants, or customers vulnerable. If your family is suffering the loss of a loved one due to an act of violence on unsafe premises, you may have the right to hold the property owner legally accountable.
At Butler Prather LLP, we represent families throughout Georgia who have lost loved ones because property owners failed in their legal duty to provide reasonable security. We understand that no amount of money can replace what was taken from you. But a wrongful death claim can hold the responsible party accountable and help ensure others are protected in the future.
Why Choose Us Over Other Negligent Security Wrongful Death Lawyers in Columbus GA
Not all law firms are equipped to take on negligent security cases, especially when wrongful death is involved. These cases may involve major corporations, property management companies, or retail chains that aggressively fight liability claims. That’s why it’s so important to find a firm that doesn’t back down from complex, high-stakes litigation.
Here’s what sets Butler Prather LLP apart.
- $2.5 billion verdict in against Ford Motor Company, showcasing our ability to hold powerful corporations accountable.
- 10 verdicts over $100 million, demonstrating a consistent record of success in complex, high-value cases.
- $280 million verdict in a wrongful death trucking case, reflecting our strength in handling devastating loss claims.
- More than 35 years of experience handling catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases, giving us deep insight and litigation skill.
- Cases successfully litigated in more than 30 states, proving our reach and reputation beyond Georgia.
- AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest possible peer-review rating for legal ability and ethics.
- Super Lawyers recognition for both James E. Butler Jr. and Ramsey B. Prather, awarded based on peer reviews and independent research.
- Known for taking on Fortune 500 companies and winning, we don’t back down from even the most powerful defendants.
The Road to Justice Starts With a Call
If your family lost someone due to a property owner's failure to provide proper security, call our Columbus premises liability lawyers at (706) 322-1990 for a free consultation.
What Is Negligent Security?
Negligent security is a form of premises liability where a property owner or occupier fails to provide adequate measures to protect lawful visitors from foreseeable harm caused by third parties. In Georgia, property owners owe a duty of care to visitors, tenants, and customers to make their premises reasonably safe. This includes foreseeable criminal activity.
Examples of negligent security include:
- Poor or non-functioning lighting in parking lots or stairwells
- Lack of security cameras or monitoring
- Broken locks, gates, or fences
- Inadequate background checks for employees or residents
- No security patrols in high-crime areas
- Failure to respond to known threats or criminal activity
When these lapses result in a deadly assault or criminal act, the property owner may be held financially accountable for failing to prevent a foreseeable tragedy.
How Negligent Security Causes Wrongful Death
Wrongful death due to negligent security typically involves violent acts committed by third parties that could have been deterred or prevented with proper safety measures.
Tragic examples include:
- A tenant fatally shot in their apartment complex’s parking lot after repeated complaints about crime and poor lighting
- A customer stabbed during a robbery at a convenience store with no security presence in a high-crime neighborhood
- A hotel guest assaulted and killed because of a broken door lock or unauthorized access
These acts may be committed by strangers, other tenants, employees, or intruders. What connects them all is the failure of the property owner to recognize foreseeable dangers and take action.
Reasons to See a Negligent Security Lawyer Right Away
Time is a critical factor in negligent security wrongful death cases. Acting quickly can make the difference between a strong case and one that is difficult to prove. Here's why it's important to speak with an attorney immediately:
- Evidence disappears quickly – Surveillance footage may be overwritten or deleted within days, and physical evidence can be removed or altered.
- Witness memories fade – The sooner witnesses are interviewed, the more accurate their accounts are likely to be.
- Property owners may hide the danger – Defendants may rush to fix lighting, repair locks, or erase signs of prior neglect.
- Critical documents can be lost or concealed – Maintenance records, security logs, and incident reports may be destroyed or withheld.
- Georgia’s statute of limitations applies – In most cases, you have only two years to file a wrongful death claim. Missing the deadline can bar your right to recover damages.
By contacting a Columbus personal injury lawyer right away, your legal team can take immediate action to secure evidence, investigate thoroughly, and begin building the foundation for a compelling wrongful death case. The sooner we begin, the better we can position your case for success.
Additionally, wrongful death claims are governed by strict legal deadlines. Missing those deadlines can result in losing your right to file a lawsuit. The sooner you speak with a lawyer, the more options you'll have to hold the responsible parties accountable.
Do You Have a Legitimate Case?
Georgia law requires property owners to take reasonable steps to protect lawful visitors from foreseeable harm. If they failed in that duty and it contributed to your loved one’s death, you may be entitled to bring a wrongful death claim against them.
If you’re unsure whether you have a case, we encourage you to reach out. The legal team at Butler Prather LLP will explain your legal options for seeking compensation during your free consultation.
You may have a legitimate negligent security wrongful death case if:
- Your loved one was killed on someone else’s property, such as an apartment complex, shopping center, gas station, or hotel.
- The incident involved a violent crime, such as a shooting, assault, or robbery.
- The location had a history of criminal activity, or there was reason to believe it posed a risk to visitors or residents.
- The property owner failed to implement or maintain reasonable safety measures—such as security cameras, guards, lighting, fencing, or access controls.
What’s the Legal Process for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim?
The legal process for a negligent security wrongful death claim in Georgia typically involves the following steps:
1. Initial Consultation and Investigation
We’ll meet with your family to learn about the circumstances of your loss. From there, we conduct a thorough investigation, gathering evidence such as:
- Police reports and incident records
- 911 call recordings
- Security camera footage
- Crime statistics in the area
- Property maintenance and security logs
- Witness statements
- Expert evaluations of property safety
2. Identifying Liable Parties
Many of these cases involve multiple defendants, such as property owners, managers, and security contractors. We’ll identify all responsible parties and evaluate the strength of claims against each.
3. Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
We file a civil claim on your behalf, asserting that the defendants’ failure to provide adequate security resulted in your loved one’s death.
4. Pre-Trial Proceedings and Negotiations
We enter discovery, where both sides exchange evidence. Settlement discussions may occur. Our firm does not pressure clients to settle—we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial.
5. Trial (If Necessary)
If the other side refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to a Georgia jury and pursue justice in the courtroom.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death lawsuit is generally two years from the date of death. Every case is different and there are exceptions. That’s why we strongly encourage you to speak with a qualified attorney about your claim as soon as possible.
Places Where Negligent Security Can Result in Wrongful Death
While negligent security can happen anywhere, there are certain places in Columbus and throughout Georgia where this issue is particularly common. These include:
- Apartment Complexes: Especially in areas with known criminal activity, landlords have a duty to provide adequate lighting, working locks, and sometimes even on-site security.
- Shopping Centers and Malls: Parking lots, garages, and entrances must be properly lit and monitored to protect shoppers.
- Hotels and Motels: Management is responsible for guest safety, including keeping unwanted visitors off the premises.
- Gas Stations and Convenience Stores: These are frequent targets for robberies, and failing to implement deterrents like security cameras or guards can be fatal.
- Nightclubs and Bars: Bouncers, crowd control, and proper security staffing are essential to prevent fights and assaults.
- College Campuses and Dormitories: Educational institutions have a duty to protect students, especially in dorms and on-campus housing.
Don’t Let Fatal Negligence Go Unchallenged
Call (706) 322-1990 to speak with a Columbus wrongful death attorney at Butler Prather LLP. We’re ready to fight for the justice your loved one deserves.
Who Is Liable for a Negligent Security Wrongful Death?
In a negligent security wrongful death case, liability usually falls on the party responsible for maintaining the premises where the attack occurred. This can include:
- The property owner
- A property management company
- A commercial tenant (such as a retail store or gas station operator)
- A security contractor or third-party vendor
- A landlord or housing authority
Each of these parties may owe a different duty under Georgia law, and liability can vary depending on the lease agreements, contracts, and control over the property. Often, multiple parties share responsibility.
For example, if an apartment complex had prior shootings in its parking lot, but neither the landlord nor the security company improved safety measures, both may be liable for a resident’s wrongful death.
Identifying Liable Parties
Identifying the right defendants is one of the most important steps in a negligent security wrongful death case. Our legal team conducts a thorough investigation to:
- Review property deeds and leases to determine ownership
- Examine security contracts and who was responsible for safety
- Subpoena records of prior criminal activity and safety complaints
- Depose employees and contractors who may have known about safety risks
- Use expert testimony to establish foreseeability of the crime
We aim to hold all responsible parties accountable, including those who tried to cut corners or shift blame.
Case Results
Premises Liability / Negligent Security
LaFontaine v. Edward DeBartolo, et al., State Court of Fulton County, Georgia. Negligent security at Augusta, Georgia shopping mall led to shooting of 19-year-old lady, rendering her paraplegic.
Premises Liability / Negligent Security
Unnamed Plaintiff v. LaQuinta Motor Inns, Inc., State Court of Muscogee County, Georgia. No security provided in dangerous area resulted in attack, assault and robbery of guest.
Premises Liability / Negligent Security
Anderson v. Radisson Hotel Corp., United States District Court, Southern District of Georgia. A 29-year-old female was assaulted due to inadequate hotel security while attending a trade show at defendant’s Atlanta hotel. Amount of settlement is confidential at defendant’s request.
What Clients Are Saying About Us
They are simply the best - Remy Thomason (5-Star Google Review)
I cannot say enough good things about Butler Prather LLP. From the moment I contacted them, I was treated with professionalism, compassion, and respect. Their team of attorneys is incredibly knowledgeable, strategic, and tireless in their pursuit of justice. If you’re looking for a law firm that will fight for you with integrity and excellence, look no further than Butler Prather LLP. They are simply the best.
I highly recommend them without hesitation - Daniel Merck (5-Star Google Review)
From start to finish, my experience with Butler Prather LLP] has been nothing short of exceptional. The staff is truly amazing – every individual I encountered was professional, courteous, and incredibly hard working. It's rare to find a team so dedicated to not only achieving the best possible outcomes but also making their clients feel genuinely supported throughout the entire process.
What stood out most to me was their unwavering professionalism. Every detail was handled with care, and communication was always timely and clear. It gave me peace of mind knowing that I had such a knowledgeable and responsive team in my corner.
More than just their legal expertise, it was the people that made the experience so memorable. They listened, showed empathy, and went above and beyond to ensure I felt confident and informed at every step.
If you’re looking for a law firm that combines skill, professionalism, and a truly compassionate team, look no further. I highly recommend them without hesitation.
Speak With a Trusted Columbus GA Negligent Security Wrongful Death Lawyer
At Butler Prather LLP, we understand how overwhelming and painful this time is for your family. You’ve suffered a profound loss, and now you’re being asked to understand complex legal issues while still in the depths of grief.
We’re here to lift that burden. Our legal team has decades of experience handling high-stakes wrongful death and negligent security cases. We know how to hold powerful corporations, landlords, and property owners accountable. More importantly, we’re here to fight for your family with compassion, dedication, and skill.
Call (706) 322-1990 to find out how we can help.
You won’t owe us anything unless we win your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a negligent security wrongful death case?
A negligent security wrongful death case arises when someone is killed due to violent criminal activity on a property where the owner failed to provide adequate safety measures. Property owners have a duty to protect lawful visitors from foreseeable harm. When that duty is breached and it leads to a fatal incident, the property owner may be held financially responsible.
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Georgia?
Under Georgia law, the surviving spouse has the first right to file a wrongful death claim. If there is no spouse, the right passes to the decedent’s children. If there are no surviving spouse or children, the claim may be brought by the parents or the personal representative of the estate.
How do I know if a property owner was negligent?
Negligence often comes down to whether the property owner knew, or what they should have known, about potential dangers and failed to take reasonable steps to prevent harm. For example, if violent crimes had occurred on the property before and no security measures were put in place, that could indicate negligence.
What types of places are commonly involved in negligent security cases?
Negligent security wrongful death cases often involve apartment complexes, hotels, parking garages, nightclubs, convenience stores, gas stations, and college campuses. These are areas where inadequate lighting, broken locks, lack of surveillance, or absence of security personnel can contribute to fatal incidents.
What damages can be recovered in a wrongful death claim?
In Georgia, families can recover the full value of the life of the deceased, including lost income and benefits, as well as intangible contributions like companionship and care. In addition, the estate may pursue a separate claim for funeral expenses, medical bills, and the pain and suffering of the deceased prior to death.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit?
In most cases, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Georgia is two years from the date of death. However, there may be exceptions, so it’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Is it necessary to go to trial in a wrongful death case?
Not always. Many wrongful death cases settle out of court. However, Butler Prather LLP prepares every case as if it’s going to trial. If the other side won’t offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to present your case before a Georgia jury.
Can a business or landlord be held responsible for a third party’s criminal actions?
Yes. If the crime was foreseeable and the business or landlord failed to take reasonable steps to prevent it, they can be held liable. Foreseeability is often established by showing a pattern of similar crimes in the area or prior incidents on the property.
What if there are multiple parties responsible?
It’s common for negligent security cases to involve multiple liable parties, such as a property owner, management company, security contractor, or tenant business. We thoroughly investigate each case to identify all responsible entities and pursue claims against each one.
Meet Our Columbus GA Wrongful Death Attorneys
James E. Butler Jr.
James E. Butler Jr. is the founding partner of Butler Prather LLP and one of the most accomplished civil trial lawyers in American legal history. Known for his unmatched record of courtroom success, Jim has served as lead counsel in ten verdicts exceeding $100 million—more than any other attorney in the United States. His results include a $1.7 billion verdict against Ford Motor Company in 2022 and a record-shattering $2.5 billion verdict in another Ford roof crush case in 2025.
Jim’s courtroom victories span 33 states and encompass a wide range of complex litigation, including catastrophic injury, wrongful death, product liability, trucking accidents, business torts, and False Claims Act cases. He has set the record for the largest jury verdict in Georgia on six separate occasions, across four different practice areas, a distinction unmatched by any other lawyer in the state.
Ramsey B. Prather
Ramsey B. Prather is a partner and trial attorney at Butler Prather LLP, where he represents clients in high-stakes civil litigation across Georgia and beyond. Known for his skill in the courtroom and precision in complex legal matters, Ramsey focuses his practice on catastrophic personal injury, wrongful death, whistleblower (False Claims Act) litigation, and business disputes.
Ramsey has been widely recognized for his excellence in litigation. He was named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers from 2019 to 2023, and was selected for inclusion in Super Lawyers in 2024 and 2025 based on peer nomination and independent research. With a sharp legal mind and a deep commitment to his clients, Ramsey brings strategic thinking, courtroom experience, and unwavering determination to every case he handles.