Wrongful death cases are personal injury lawsuits held on a victim’s behalf. If a family member or loved one has died due to another’s negligence, you and your family may be eligible for compensation. A St. Louis wrongful death lawyer is here to guide you through the steps of making sure justice is served.
These cases are sensitive and sometimes take a team to manage. There are many rules and laws put in place to protect both sides of the case. Therefore, we want to help maneuver you through the process while offering you the support and space you need to grieve.
Contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC today at (800) 593-3443 for a free consultation. Let us deal with the legalities while you focus on healing. Our firm works on contingency fees, so you have nothing to lose.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in St. Louis?
Under Missouri Statutes § 537.080, the following can sue on behalf of the deceased:
- Spouse
- Children (natural, adopted)
- Parents (biological or adoptive)
- Siblings
- Grandparents if parents are deceased
- A legal guardian or court-appointed plaintiff if none of the above is available
This statute does not allow for more than one wrongful death claim to be filed against the same person or entity. Getting the advice of a wrongful death attorney is strongly recommended if there is more than one descendent expecting compensation.
For a free legal consultation with a wrongful death lawyer serving St. Louis, call (800) 593-3443
Process for Filing Wrongful Death Lawsuit
A wrongful death case may be complicated. Proving negligence and gathering evidence within the statute of limitations for these cases can prove difficult, especially if you do not have experience with the law in St. Louis.
Types of Wrongful Death Cases Include:
- Medical malpractice
- Product defect liability
- Premise Liability
- Automobile Fatalities
- Workplace Death
Proving Negligence
You must be able to prove:
- The victim’s death was because of the incident.
- The incident was due to the negligence or intent of the defendant.
- The defendant had a duty of care to protect the victim from the negligence.
- You have suffered damages due to the death.
- You have a right to sue on the victim’s behalf.
Statutes of Limitations for a Wrongful Death Case in St. Louis
According to Missouri Revised Law § 516.120 a plaintiff has five years to file a personal injury claim in a civil suit . However, there are exceptions to the rule when dealing with government entities, medical malpractice, or when a minor is involved.
While you receive your free case consultation, a Ben Crump Law, PLLC team member will help you understand the statute of limitations and how it specifically applies to your case.
St. Louis Wrongful Death Lawyer Near Me (800) 593-3443
How a St. Louis Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help You
There are many ways a St. Louis wrongful death lawyer can help you manage your case. We understand how sensitive the death of a loved one can be. We are passionate about pursuing the justice and compensation you and your family deserve.
Understanding the Value of a Loss
While monetary awards cannot bring your loved one back, they can help relieve you of medical bills and funeral costs which are only scratching the surface when calculating the value of your settlement.
Our team of attorneys also value the uniqueness of your case and want to help you negotiate the most suitable settlement for your circumstances.
Advocating for Justice
Contact the offices of Ben Crump Law, PLLC and let one of our team members evaluate your case, risk-free. We believe in advocating for just causes and want to help manage your case through these challenging times. There is no need for you to continue reliving every moment of your loved one’s tragedy. Let us take on that burden so you can heal and grieve.
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Damages You Can Receive for a St. Louis Wrongful Death Case
There are three types of compensation in a St. Louis wrongful death lawsuit. Knowing which are appropriate for your case is essential when negotiating your claim with insurance companies and managing your lawsuit.
- Economic Damages
This includes any costs associated with the victim’s death — medical bills, funeral and burial expenses, etc. This also consists of any monetary contributions that you no longer have access to based on the victim’s calculated life span — income supporting the household, pensions, and other savings, child support, etc.
- Noneconomic Damages
This includes intangible variables that may cause further loss of finances such as pain and suffering, loss of companionship, loss of mentorship, and emotional distress.
- Punitive Damages
These are usually in the case of intentional death and are for providing punishment to the victim for negligence. In some cases, there are awards for punitive damages.
When you hire an attorney, you may have access to economists and medical professionals to calculate the value of all your damages according to your case. There are also limits or caps on compensation in certain circumstances, which is why discussing your options with a lawyer may help. They know what to look for to help you optimize your argument.
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Contact Ben Crump Law, PLLC Today
Do not wait to file a wrongful death claim. While two years may seem like a long time, the clock is ticking from the date of the incident to file. It is easy to put off confronting a tragic event. Furthermore, these cases take time when gathering evidence and entertaining negotiations and counterclaims — sometimes years.
Ben Crump Law, PLLC recognizes the complexity these cases can carry, and a St. Louis wrongful death lawyer can advocate for you while seeking compensation. Moreover, when you release the burden of building your case to a professional, you are advocating for yourself. You are making space for your grief and healing.
Call our office today at (800) 593-3443 and let us help you hold the negligent party accountable. There is no risk in calling us. You do not pay any fees unless we win a settlement on your behalf.
Call or text (800) 593-3443 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
