Losing a loved one because of another person’s negligence is a devastating experience. Along with emotional grief, families often face financial burdens, especially when the deceased was a primary earner or caregiver. For help navigating this difficult time, contact Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers at (636) 519-0085.
If the death happened in St. Louis, Missouri, filing a wrongful death claim can help bring justice and provide compensation, but you need to understand Missouri’s legal process and timelines. Our St. Louis personal injury attorneys can guide you through the wrongful death claims process and fight to hold the responsible party accountable.
Call us today for a free consultation with a St. Louis wrongful death lawyer. We only get paid if we win compensation for you.
How Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers Can Help With a Wrongful Death Claim in St. Louis
Pursuing a wrongful death claim in St. Louis, Missouri, requires legal knowledge, diligence, and compassion. At Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers, we handle every case with care and precision, ensuring your family receives the respect and representation you deserve.
Here’s how our St. Louis wrongful death lawyers can assist:
- Gathering medical records, accident reports, and witness statements
- Identifying all liable individuals or entities
- Working with financial, medical, or accident reconstruction experts to build your case
- Sending a detailed demand letter outlining your damages
- Negotiating for a full settlement with insurance companies
- Taking your case to trial if necessary to pursue maximum compensation
We are here to relieve your legal burdens so you can focus on honoring your loved one and rebuilding your life. Our team knows Missouri’s wrongful death laws and understands how local courts operate.
Reach out today for a free consultation with a St. Louis personal injury attorney.
Understanding Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Missouri
Under Missouri law, a wrongful death occurs when someone dies due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional act of another person or company.
Only certain family members—such as a surviving spouse, children, or parents—have the right to bring a wrongful death claim. If those relatives do not exist or choose not to act, more distant relatives like siblings may be allowed to file.
You may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical costs incurred before death
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost income or benefits that the deceased would have provided
- Loss of companionship/consortium, guidance, and services
- Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death
Missouri’s statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is generally three years from the date of death. If you miss this deadline, your right to compensation may be lost forever.
Steps for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Missouri
To pursue a wrongful death claim effectively, you’ll typically need to take the following steps:
- Send a demand letter: Once we gather enough evidence, we’ll prepare and send a demand letter to the responsible party’s insurer. This document outlines the details of your claim, the extent of your losses, and the compensation being sought.
- Negotiate a settlement: We’ll try to reach a fair settlement through direct negotiations or mediation. This process can involve multiple rounds of back-and-forth discussions and may avoid the stress and uncertainty of a trial.
- File a lawsuit: If settlement talks fail, we will file a formal lawsuit in the appropriate St. Louis court. Litigation helps preserve your right to pursue full compensation through trial if necessary.
- Pre-trial discovery: Both sides exchange evidence during the discovery phase, including depositions and expert reports. This can lead to additional insight and strengthen your legal position.
- Pre-trial motions and hearings: Before trial, courts may resolve key legal issues through motions. These hearings can impact which evidence is admissible or whether parts of the case may be dismissed.
- Trial: If the case proceeds to trial, a judge or jury will determine fault and damages. Our attorneys are trial-tested and ready to present a compelling case on your behalf.
- Appeals: Following the trial, either side may appeal the decision if there are legal grounds to do so. We can advise you on whether an appeal is appropriate based on the trial outcome.
- Recover and distribute compensation: If you get compensation, it’s typically deposited into a trust account. Legal fees, expert costs, and court expenses are deducted first. The remaining funds are then distributed to family members according to Missouri law and any agreements among the parties.
Courts may supervise this process to ensure that it’s fair and lawful. Our team will guide you through these final steps, ensuring a smooth and respectful distribution of the settlement.
Speak With a St. Louis Wrongful Death Attorney Today
You don’t have to go through this process alone. At Roach Law Car Accident Lawyers, we provide compassionate, experienced legal representation to families throughout St. Louis, MO. From investigation to trial and distribution of funds, we handle every aspect of your wrongful death claim so you can focus on healing.
Reach out today for a free consultation with a St. Louis wrongful death lawyer. Let us fight for the justice and closure your family deserves.