The death of a loved one is never easy. Loss from another’s actions and negligence is even more difficult. It can feel wrongful. The questions are there forever. The bills are still there. The loss is still there. An experienced local wrongful death attorney in Kansas City can help you start a process in an effort to hold the proper party responsible. Practices like ours specialize in helping families like yours find justice and their footing after loss.
Contents
- 1 What is meant by “Wrongful Death?”
- 2 Missouri Law Gives You the Right to Act
- 3 Who Can File a Claim?
- 4 Purposes of Making a Claim
- 5 How a Kansas City Lawyer Helps
- 6 What Can You Get From a Lawsuit?
- 7 Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Missouri
- 8 Why Hire a Local Lawyer?
- 9 What to Expect From Your Lawyer
- 10 What Makes a Good Wrongful Death Lawyer?
- 11 FAQs
- 12 Take the First Step
What is meant by “Wrongful Death?”
A wrongful death means that a person died as a result of the negligence or intentional act of someone else. Some examples of these actions include:
- A vehicle or trucking accident
- A workplace accident
- A medical mistake
- A crime
- Nursing home neglect
It does not matter if the act was on purpose or not. What matters is that it led to a death that could have been prevented.
Missouri Law Gives You the Right to Act
Missouri law allows close family members to file a wrongful death claim. This means asking for money to cover the loss. You can also hold the person or group responsible. This kind of case is civil, not criminal. That means it’s about money and responsibility, not jail time.
Who Can File a Claim?
Not everyone can file a wrongful death claim. Under Missouri law, the people who can file are:
- The spouse
- Children or grandchildren
- Parents
- Siblings (in some cases)
- A court-approved person if none of the above exist
If you’re not sure you qualify, ask a lawyer. They’ll check and explain your options. You must file within three years of the person’s death. This is called the “statute of limitations.” If you wait too long, you lose the right to sue.
Purposes of Making a Claim
A wrongful death claim will never bring your loved one back, but it can provide a number of things:
- Stop this from happening to someone else.
- Hold someone or an entity accountable for their actions.
- Help recover expenses, like funeral expenses, hospital expenses, or lost wages.
- Help provide you with the resolution and support during a time of grief.
Many families are unsure at first. That’s normal. A lawyer will listen and guide you without pressure.
How a Kansas City Lawyer Helps
Handling this on your own is hard. You’re grieving and stressed. A lawyer knows how to move things forward while you take time to heal. Here’s how a Kansas City wrongful death lawyer can help:
1. Explain Your Rights
Many people don’t know what the law allows. A lawyer will go over your rights and answer your questions.
2. Gather Proof
You need proof to show what happened and who is at fault. This might include:
- Police reports
- Medical records
- Photos or videos
- Witness statements
- Expert opinions
Lawyers know what to look for and how to get it.
3. Talk to Insurance Companies
Insurance firms may try to pay less than what you need. A lawyer will speak to them for you. They know the tricks and how to fight back.
4. File Legal Papers
Legal forms can be tricky. They must be done right and sent on time. A lawyer will take care of this for you.
5. Negotiate or Go to Court
Most cases settle without going to court. But if the other side won’t be fair, your lawyer can take the case before a judge or jury.
What Can You Get From a Lawsuit?
Every case is different. A lawyer will work to get what your family needs. You may receive money for:
- Medical bills before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost income or support
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of future help from the person
The court will look at your loved one’s age, income, and role in the family. They also look at how much you relied on them.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Missouri
Wrongful death can happen in many ways. Some of the most common include:
Collision
Engaging in unsafe behaviors such speeding, drinking, or texting can lead to a variety of serious collisions. These acts of driving demonstrate what the driver believes is the importance of following the safety rules of driving & the safety of everyone.
Truck Collisions
Trucks are dangerous, heavy machines used to transport goods. Collisions and loss of life can occur when truck drivers are tired, not trained, or careless.
Medical Mistakes
Doctors, nurses, and hospitals have a responsibility to provide a certain level of care. When mistakes or carelessness occur people can die.
Work Accidents
Some jobs are more risky than others. But all employers must provide safe conditions. If they don’t, they may be held responsible.
Nursing Home Neglect
Older people deserve care and respect. When staff are careless or abusive, the results can be deadly.
Defective Products
Some products are unsafe because they were made or designed poorly. If one caused your loved one’s death, you may have a case.
Why Hire a Local Lawyer?
A Kansas City lawyer knows the courts, the laws, and the insurance companies in your area. That helps your case move faster and smoother. They also care about the local community. You’re not just a case number. They want to help your family heal and recover.
What to Expect From Your Lawyer
You don’t need to know the law. Your lawyer will guide you through each step. They’ll handle the legal paperwork, calls, and talks with the other side. You won’t pay anything up front. Most lawyers only get paid if they win money for you.
Expect your lawyer to:
- Listen to your story
- Answer your questions
- Explain the law
- Collect and protect evidence
- Fight for what you deserve
They’ll keep you updated and help you make smart choices.
What Makes a Good Wrongful Death Lawyer?
Look for someone who:
- Has handled wrongful death cases before
- Listens and speaks clearly
- Knows Missouri law
- Is easy to reach
- Makes you feel heard and understood
You can read reviews online or ask for a free meeting to learn more.
FAQs
1. What is a wrongful death claim?
It’s a lawsuit when someone dies because of another person’s actions or mistakes.
2. How much does a lawyer cost?
Most wrongful death lawyers work on a “no win, no fee” basis. You pay nothing unless they win.
3. Can I still file if the person didn’t mean to cause harm?
Yes. Even if it wasn’t on purpose, you may still have a case if their actions led to death.
4. How long does the case take?
Some cases settle in a few months. Others take longer. Your lawyer will give you a rough idea.
5. What if more than one person is to blame?
You may be able to sue everyone involved. The lawyer will help sort out who is at fault.
Take the First Step
Grief takes time. But legal time limits don’t wait. If you think someone caused your loved one’s death, talk to a skilled and affordable Kansas City personal injury lawyer today. You have questions. They have answers. You don’t need to fight this alone. Let someone stand by you. Let someone fight for you. Justice is possible—one step at a time.
