Home » Personal Injury » Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Missouri

Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Missouri

Back

Understanding Wrongful Death Claims

Losing a loved one is an unimaginable tragedy, especially when it’s due to the negligence or misconduct of others. In Missouri, a wrongful death claim is a legal action that seeks justice for the death of a person caused by the wrongful act or omission of another. These lawsuits are crucial for providing financial support and a degree of justice to the grieving families.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Missouri law specifies who can file a wrongful death claim. This includes the deceased’s spouse, parents, or children. If none of these relatives are alive, a sibling or their descendants may file the claim. In some cases, a court-appointed plaintiff ad litem can represent the family.

Types of Damages Recoverable

In wrongful death cases, families may recover various types of damages, including:

  • Medical expenses incurred prior to the death
  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Lost wages and benefits, including what the deceased would have earned if they had lived
  • Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before they passed away

Loss of companionship, guidance, and support

Personal Injury Lawyer Line

417-883-5539

You Don't Pay Unless We Win For You!
PAST RESULT

Get Your Free Consultation

How Our Law Firm Can Help

We understand the emotional and financial toll a wrongful death can take on a family. Our experienced Missouri wrongful death attorneys are committed to providing compassionate, dedicated representation to help you navigate this difficult time. We offer:

  • A thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death
  • Determination of all liable parties and the extent of their responsibility
  • Aggressive pursuit of the maximum compensation you deserve
  • Emotional support and professional guidance throughout the legal process

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, please contact us for a free, confidential consultation. We are here to help you understand your rights and options under Missouri law.

417-883-5539

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Missouri

If the defendant does not have sufficient insurance or assets, recovering the full amount of damages might be challenging. However, an attorney can explore all possible sources of compensation, including any third-party liability or additional insurance policies.
Yes, many wrongful death claims in Missouri are settled out of court. Settlements can be quicker and less costly than a trial, and they also provide a degree of certainty that a trial cannot.
The duration of a wrongful death lawsuit in Missouri can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the amount of evidence, the willingness of parties to settle, and the court's schedule. Some cases may resolve in a matter of months, while others could take several years.
While not legally required, it is highly advisable to hire an attorney experienced in wrongful death cases in Missouri. These cases can be complex and require a thorough understanding of the legal system, as well as expertise in negotiating and litigating to secure fair compensation.
Yes, in some cases, punitive damages may be awarded in Missouri wrongful death lawsuits. These are intended to punish the defendant for particularly egregious or intentional misconduct and to deter similar actions in the future.
The amount of damages is typically determined by considering various factors such as the deceased's earning capacity, the financial dependence of the survivors on the deceased, the health and age of the deceased at the time of death, and the non-economic contributions of the deceased to the family.
The damages in a wrongful death lawsuit can include funeral and burial expenses, lost wages and benefits, medical expenses related to the deceased's final illness or injury, pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before they died, and non-economic damages like loss of companionship and support.
Missouri law specifies a hierarchy of individuals who can file a wrongful death claim. This primarily includes the deceased's immediate family members, such as a spouse, children, or parents. If these are not available, siblings or their descendants can file. In some cases, a court-appointed representative may also file the claim.
In Missouri, a wrongful death is one that results from any act, conduct, occurrence, or omission caused by the negligence or wrongful act of another party. This can include car accidents, medical malpractice, work-related incidents, or criminal acts.
Call