Losing a loved one is never easy. Even when death is expected because of age or illness, the finality of death can be a heavy burden for the deceased’s family. When a person dies unexpectedly, the hurt is often compounded by the financial consequences of the death. If your loved one died as a result of another person’s negligence or wrongful act, you may have a valid wrongful death claim. In this challenging time, you need an experienced Independence wrongful death lawyer who can provide legal guidance and support to you. For more information about how a wrongful death lawyer in Independence can help you contact Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe for a free consultation.
- With over a century of experience resulting in over a billion dollars in verdicts and settlements, we have been the voice of victims.
- We are committed to our client’s cause and fight passionately to get the best outcome for every client.
- Our nationally recognized lawyers strategically pursue all avenues of liability to demand accountability and maximize compensation for you and your loved ones.
If you have lost a loved one because of another person’s negligence, call Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe toll-free today at (877) 816-2600 to speak with one of our Independence personal injury attorneys.
What is a Wrongful Death?
When a person causes the death of another person, they are usually held accountable by the state. The state institutes criminal charges against that person with the intention of punishing the wrongdoer. A wrongful death lawsuit in Missouri on the other hand is a civil action instituted against the wrongdoer by the beneficiaries of the deceased. The objective of a wrongful death lawsuit is not to punish the wrongdoer but to compensate the deceased’s beneficiaries for the loss of their loved one.
Who Can Make a Wrongful Death Claim?
In some states, only the personal representative of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim. If the deceased did not have an appointed executor or personal representative, one can be appointed by the court. Missouri state has a less restrictive approach. Under Missouri law, the following class of people can file a wrongful death claim:
- The spouse, child(ren), or parents of the deceased
- If the deceased left no spouse, child(ren), or parents, the siblings or nieces and nephews of the deceased can file a claim
- If the deceased left no spouse, children, parents, siblings, or other relatives, the court will appoint a plaintiff ad litem to prosecute the wrongful death claim for the benefit of the deceased’s beneficiaries
What Type of Damages Can I Claim in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Although the damages in every wrongful death claim will vary, damages in a typical wrongful death claim may include:
- Medical expenses if the deceased initially survived and received medical attention for the injury that caused their death
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of income
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of comfort, guidance, support, and training
Unlike medical expenses and funeral and burial expenses, the other damages you are entitled to may be difficult to value and quantify. You need an experienced wrongful death attorney in Independence who understands the law and can help you adequately state your damages and fight for you and your family to get the compensation you deserve.
Contact an Independence Wrongful Death Attorney Today
If you have lost a loved one because of the wrongful or negligent actions of another person, call Dollar, Burns, Becker & Hershewe toll free at (877) 816-2600 to schedule a free consultation with one of our Independence wrongful death attorneys.