Kansas City Wrongful Death Lawyer
The sudden death of a loved one is devastating. When that loss is due to another’s negligence or recklessness, grief mixes with anger and a yearning for justice. You might be wondering who you can hold accountable and if you are eligible for compensation. If you’re facing this unfortunate situation, a Kansas City wrongful death lawyer from Patterson Legal Group can help.
Our Kansas City personal injury attorneys can be your guide during a difficult time and help you and your family receive the compensation you deserve. To get started, call us (816) 920-0000.
What Is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death occurs when someone dies due to the careless, reckless, or intentional act of another person or entity. Legally, these claims are considered a personal injury. According to Missouri revised statute § 537.080, the following individuals can sue to obtain damages for a wrongful death:
- Class 1: Spouse, children, or parents of the deceased (including adoptive, biological, legitimate, and illegitimate).
- Class 2: If no Class 1 members exist, siblings or their descendants of the deceased.
- Class 3: If no Class 1 or 2 members exist, a court-appointed plaintiff.
Missouri law also has a five-year statute of limitations to file wrongful death claims. To file a wrongful death claim in Missouri, you will need evidence of the negligence that caused the death, such as medical records, police reports, death certificate, etc. During your free case consultation, a Kansas City wrongful death attorney will review what you need and the steps to take in order to start the claims process.
A Kansas City Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help You Win Compensation
Losing a loved one unexpectedly is incredibly difficult. The financial burden can make a terrible situation even worse. But there may be help. A wrongful death lawsuit can help ease some of the financial strain on surviving family members. If you’re considering this path, understanding the available compensation is crucial. Depending on the circumstances of your claim and relationship to the deceased, you might be eligible for compensation, such as:
- Medical bills: Costs associated with the deceased’s medical care leading up to their death.
- Funeral and burial expenses: Costs of funeral services, casket, burial plot, and other related expenses.
- Loss of earning capacity: Future income potential the deceased lost due to their death.
- Punitive damages: Compensation meant to punish the defendant in order to prevent similar future behavior.
- Loss of consortium: The loss of companionship, love, and support from the deceased.
Your Kansas City wrongful death lawyer will assess your case to see if you have a claim and will calculate the amount of damages you are owed.
Why Do I Need an Attorney After a Wrongful Death?
Dealing with the wrongful death of a loved one is difficult. These cases can be legally challenging and complex, making them impossible to handle on your own. This can be even more difficult to handle while you’re grieving the loss of a loved one. A wrongful death lawsuit can hold them accountable and provide you with some financial security during this difficult time.
Here’s how a Kansas City wrongful death lawyer can assist you:
- Investigate the cause: Your lawyer will investigate the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s passing to determine if negligence was involved.
- Identify responsible parties: They will work to identify everyone who may be liable for the death.
- Gather evidence: Building a strong case requires evidence. Your lawyer will help gather relevant information.
- Calculate compensation: Your lawyer will calculate the total compensation you deserve.
- Protect your rights: Insurance companies may try to pressure you into unfair settlements. Your lawyer ensures you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to.
- Negotiate or litigate: If a fair settlement isn’t reached with the insurance company, your lawyer will represent you in court.
Contact a Kansas City Wrongful Death Lawyer
A loved one is irreplaceable. While a lawsuit cannot bring them back, it can provide financial stability and a sense of justice. Contact a Kansas City wrongful death lawyer to discuss your case and learn how they can help you through this challenging time.
Your case evaluation is completely free, and you pay nothing until we win thanks to our “no win, no fee” policy.
Reach out to our dedicated team today by giving us a call at (816) 920-0000, or contact us via LiveChat. You can also fill out a FREE online form to get started.
