Losing a loved one is devastating—especially when their death was caused by someone else’s negligence or wrongful act. During such a painful time, working with an experienced Independence wrongful death lawyer can help your family pursue justice and financial recovery.
At Foster Wallace, we provide compassionate legal support while aggressively advocating for your rights under Missouri law. As a dedicated Independence personal injury lawyer, our firm understands how wrongful death impacts families emotionally and financially.
Whether your case involves a fatal car accident, medical malpractice, or unsafe property conditions, our attorneys are here to provide clarity, support, and results. With more than $1 billion recovered in settlements and verdicts, our legal team is trusted across Missouri for handling complex and emotionally charged cases with care.
What is a Wrongful Death Case?
Wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the careless, reckless, or intentional actions of another party. These civil claims are brought by surviving family members or representatives of the deceased’s estate and are designed to seek compensation for the losses suffered as a result of the death.
Some of the most common causes of wrongful death include:
- Motor vehicle accidents: Fatal crashes caused by distracted, impaired, or reckless drivers
- Medical malpractice: Fatal errors by doctors, nurses, or hospitals
- Dangerous premises: Fatal injuries due to hazardous property conditions
- Workplace accidents: Particularly in industries like construction or manufacturing
- Defective products: Unsafe items that lead to fatal injuries or illnesses
In all of these cases, Missouri law allows eligible family members to pursue legal action and seek damages for their loss.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Missouri?
Missouri law outlines a specific order of priority for who can bring a wrongful death claim:
- Immediate family: This includes the surviving spouse, children, or parents of the deceased.
- Siblings: If no spouse, children, or parents are living, siblings or their descendants may file.
- Personal representative: If no qualifying family members exist, a court-appointed representative can file on behalf of the estate.
At Foster Wallace, a knowledgeable wrongful death attorney in Independence will help you understand your eligibility and guide you through the legal process during this difficult time.
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What Damages Can be Recovered?
Wrongful death claims are designed to compensate surviving family members for both tangible and intangible losses. The damages available may include:
- Funeral and burial costs: Expenses directly related to laying your loved one to rest
- Medical bills: Treatment and care provided before death
- Loss of income: Wages or future earnings the deceased would have contributed
- Loss of services: The value of household tasks, childcare, or other services provided
- Pain and suffering: Emotional distress and mental anguish experienced by survivors
- Loss of companionship: The emotional loss of love, support, and guidance
In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish especially reckless or intentional behavior. Our wrongful death law firm in Independence will carefully assess your losses and seek full compensation.
Why Choose Foster Wallace?
Choosing the right attorney matters, especially when your case involves something as personal as the wrongful death of a loved one. At Foster Wallace, we’ve built our firm on compassion, transparency, and results.
Why families trust us:
- Over $1 billion recovered in jury verdicts, settlements, and judgments
- 45 years of combined legal experience handling complex personal injury and wrongful death claims
- Transparent communication, which allows us to keep families informed at every stage of the case
- No upfront fees—we don’t get paid unless we recover compensation for you
Our attorneys are committed to honoring your loved one’s memory by holding negligent parties accountable and securing the financial relief your family needs to move forward.
How Long Do You have to File?
Missouri’s statute of limitations generally allows three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim. However, exceptions may apply based on the circumstances, and it’s crucial to speak with an attorney as early as possible. Delays can jeopardize evidence and limit your legal options.
By consulting with an Independence wrongful death lawyer promptly, you protect your right to pursue compensation and ensure your family’s interests are represented from day one.
What to Expect When Working with Our Wrongful Death Attorneys in Independence, MO
At Foster Wallace, our approach is personalized and thorough. When you choose our team, we will:
- Listen to your story: We begin by understanding your situation and answering your legal questions with honesty and empathy.
- Investigate the circumstances: Our team carefully examines the facts to uncover the full picture of what led to your loved one’s death.
- Collect and preserve evidence: This includes medical records, police reports, photos, and witness statements that support your claim.
- Work with experts: We collaborate with financial and medical professionals to assess damages and strengthen your case.
- Negotiate or litigate as needed: Whether through settlement discussions or trial, we pursue fair compensation for your family.
Start the Path to Justice Today
No amount of money can replace a lost loved one, but pursuing a wrongful death claim can provide the financial security and sense of accountability your family needs. At Foster Wallace, our legal team is here to support you with care, skill, and determination.
Contact our office today to speak with a trusted Independence wrongful death attorney in a free, no-obligation consultation. We are ready to help your family pursue justice and move forward with strength. Your injury. Our fight.
