Chesterfield Wrongful Death Lawyer

Helping Clients Who Have Lost Loved Ones Due To Negligence in Missouri

Losing a loved one is one of life’s most painful experiences. That pain is only magnified when the death was caused by someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional wrongdoing. While no legal action can bring your loved one back, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help ease the financial burden and provide a sense of justice for the loss.

At Nichols Lang & Hamlin, LLC, our experienced team of wrongful death attorneys in Chesterfield, MO, understands the profound grief and devastating consequences that follow the loss of a loved one due to someone else's negligence or misconduct. We are dedicated to helping families seek justice and obtain the compensation they deserve during these difficult times.

Call Nichols Lang & Hamlin, LLC today at (314) 309-2301 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our wrongful death attorney in Chesterfield.

Empathetic Guidance Through Your Wrongful Death Claim

Losing a family member in a wrongful death incident is an unimaginable tragedy. The emotional and financial burden can be overwhelming, leaving families feeling helpless and uncertain about the future. Our compassionate wrongful death attorneys in Chesterfield are here to guide you through the legal process, providing support, empathy, and aggressive representation to ensure your rights are protected.

What is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim arises when a person’s death is caused by the negligent, reckless, or intentional actions of another individual or entity. These claims are civil actions designed to provide compensation to the deceased’s surviving family members.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death

Understanding the common causes of wrongful death is essential in identifying possible grounds for a legal claim. Common causes of wrongful death may include:

• Car Accidents: Reckless driving, distracted driving, or impaired driving can lead to fatal accidents, leaving grieving families seeking justice.
• Medical Malpractice: Negligence by healthcare professionals, whether through misdiagnosis, surgical errors, or other medical mistakes, can have fatal consequences.
• Workplace Accidents: Inadequate safety measures or negligence in the workplace can lead to fatal accidents, making employers accountable for their actions.
• Defective Products: When a defective product causes a death, the manufacturer or distributor may be held responsible for the tragedy.
• Premises Liability: Property owners can be liable if negligence on their part results in a fatal accident on their premises.
• Criminal Acts: Such as assault or homicide.

Who is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Wrongful death lawsuits are generally filed by the surviving family members or beneficiaries of the deceased. In Missouri, eligible parties may include:

• Spouse and Children: The surviving spouse and children are often the primary beneficiaries eligible to file a wrongful death claim.
• Parents: In the absence of a surviving partner or children, parents of the deceased may be eligible to file a claim.
• Personal Representatives: If there are no immediate family members, the personal representative of the deceased's estate could seek a wrongful death claim on behalf of the estate.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in Wrongful Death Claims?

While no amount of money can replace the loss of a loved one, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help alleviate the financial burdens associated with the tragedy. Compensation can cover various aspects, including:

• Funeral expenses
• Medical bills
• Loss of financial support
• Loss of companionship and consortium
• Pain and suffering

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Wrongful Death Claim in Missouri?

In Missouri, the time limit for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is typically three years from the date of the deceased person's death. However, there may be exceptions based on the circumstances of the case.

Prompt action is essential to preserve evidence and build a strong case. Our Chesterfield wrongful death attorneys are adept at navigating the legal complexities associated with wrongful death claims and work diligently to ensure that our clients meet all deadlines.

Losing a loved one is an unspeakable pain, and seeking legal recourse might be the last thing on your mind. However, holding those responsible accountable can provide a sense of justice and financial stability for the surviving family members. At Nichols Lang & Hamlin, LLC, we are dedicated to helping our clients navigate the legal process with compassion and determination, seeking the compensation they deserve.

Why Choose Nichols Lang & Hamlin, LLC?

Experience and Dedication

With years of experience handling wrongful death cases, our attorneys possess the knowledge and dedication necessary to navigate complex legal matters. We have successfully represented numerous families in Chesterfield, MO, and have a track record of achieving substantial settlements and verdicts on their behalf.

Customized Legal Strategies

At Nichols Lang & Hamlin, LLC, we understand that every wrongful death case is unique. We take the time to listen to your story, understand your needs, and develop a customized legal strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. Our compassionate attorneys are dedicated to providing you with the personal attention and support you deserve.

Commitment to Your Cause

We are committed advocates for our client's rights and are relentless in holding negligent parties accountable. Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, consult with experts, and build a strong legal argument on your behalf. We are prepared to take your case to court if necessary to seek maximum compensation for your loss.

Take the First Step Toward Justice

At Nichols Lang & Hamlin, our Chesterfield wrongful death lawyers understand the deep grief and overwhelming uncertainty that follow the wrongful death of a loved one. Let us guide you through this process with care, respect, and unwavering commitment.

Contact Our Wrongful Death Attorneys in Chesterfield Today

If you have lost a loved one due to another party's negligence or misconduct, it's essential to consult with a skilled wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. Our legal team at Nichols Lang & Hamlin, LLC is ready to fight for your rights and help you navigate the legal process during this challenging time.

Call our Chesterfield office at (314) 309-2301 or contact us to schedule a free, confidential consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don't pay any legal fees unless we win your case.

Contact Nichols Lang & Hamlin, LLC today  at (314) 309-2301 to get started with our Chesterfield wrongful death lawyer.

Wrongful Death FAQs

What is the difference between wrongful death and homicide?

Homicide is a criminal charge pursued by the state to punish the wrongdoer, while a wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit brought by the deceased’s family to seek financial compensation. Both can occur simultaneously, but they are separate legal processes.

How do I know if I have a wrongful death case?

If your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence or intentional actions, you may have a wrongful death case. Consulting with an experienced attorney is the best way to evaluate your claim.

How long does a wrongful death case take to resolve?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. Some cases settle in a few months, while others may take years to resolve.

Can multiple family members file separate lawsuits?

No. Missouri law requires that all eligible family members join together in a single wrongful death lawsuit to avoid conflicting claims.

What if the deceased was partially at fault?

Missouri follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to your loved one. An attorney can help clarify how this might affect your case.

Can I still file a wrongful death claim if the person who caused the death was criminally charged?

Yes. A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit separate from any criminal case. You may pursue a wrongful death case even if the responsible party is facing criminal charges, and the outcome of the criminal case does not affect your civil case.

Can I file a wrongful death lawsuit if the person who caused the death was NOT arrested?

Yes. A wrongful death lawsuit can still be filed even if the person responsible has not been arrested. The civil legal process is independent of any criminal action.

What are the chances of winning a wrongful death lawsuit?

The outcome of a wrongful death case depends on the specific facts of the case. With an experienced attorney from Nichols Lang & Hamlin on your side, the chances of a successful outcome are significantly increased. We work diligently to build a strong case for our clients.