Springfield, MO Wrongful Death Lawyers

Pursuing Justice for Families in Missouri

For many of us, losing a loved one in an accident is one of our greatest fears. Learning about the loss of a loved one due to negligence can shatter your world in a heartbeat. At Bishop & Hayes, we understand the immense financial and emotional hardships that come with a wrongful death. No amount of money can diminish the pain, sadness, and sense of loss. However, pursuing justice on behalf of your loved one can ease stress in the wake of this unimaginable tragedy. With our compassionate approach, we help guide families through this difficult time while seeking legal avenues to recover damages.

Our wrongful death attorneys in Springfield have over 50 years of shared experience advocating for grieving families. With extensive knowledge of auto accident and personal injury law, you can trust our Springfield wrongful death lawyers to protect your rights while pursuing the justice you deserve. We handle each situation with the utmost care, devoting our full attention to your legal journey and offering a compassionate ear to help ease the burden of legal proceedings. We are dedicated to guiding your legal steps with wisdom and integrity from start to finish.

If you’re grieving the loss of a loved one, our firm can fight tirelessly to bring negligent parties to justice. Contact us today at (417) 785-3410 to schedule a free consultation.

What Constitutes a Wrongful Death in Missouri? 

According to Missouri Revised Statutes §537.080, a “wrongful death” is a death resulting from “any act, conduct, occurrence, transaction, or circumstance which, if death had not ensued, would have entitled such person to recover damages.” This means that a wrongful death lawsuit can be brought against any individual or company whose negligence causes the death of another person. It is an important legal mechanism that allows families to seek accountability and financial relief during a deeply troubling time. 

Types of Accidents Resulting in Wrongful Death

Many types of accidents can result in wrongful death, leaving families in Springfield and across Missouri to cope with the unexpected loss and hardship the loss of a loved one brings. 

Common examples include: 

Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death

After the loss of a loved one, filing a lawsuit is likely the last thing on your mind. However, taking swift legal action is imperative to hold negligent parties accountable for your loved one's death. Missouri law upholds a strict statute of limitations to file a claim, making it crucial to seek sound counsel as soon as possible. Prompt legal action not only ensures compliance with these stringent timeframes, but it also helps preserve critical evidence necessary for building a strong claim. 

In Missouri, wrongful death claims must be filed within three years of the decedent’s death to recover damages. Our Springfield wrongful death attorneys can help you navigate the legal intricacies of the claims process to ensure compliance with all regulations and deadlines. Delaying the investigation into your loved one’s death can also result in lost or damaged evidence over time due to police clearing the site of the accident, involved vehicles being repaired or sold, or witnesses falling off the grid. Taking prompt action secures your right to seek damages and achieve a measure of justice for your loss.   

Don’t waive your right to pursue damages in civil court by forgoing experienced representation. Turn to Bishop & Hayes P.C., your trusted wrongful death lawyer in Springfield, to aggressively pursue justice on your loved one’s behalf. When you hire us, our attorneys can conduct an immediate and comprehensive investigation of the accident to determine liability and fortify your claim with compelling evidence. Our goal is to support and empower you throughout this challenging time.

Who Is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim? 

Any sudden death has a powerful ripple effect, affecting every person who knew and cared about the decedent. In many cases, a close friend or distant relative may feel just as devastated as an immediate family member. While every survivor experiences a unique connection and a special sense of loss, state law is very specific about who is eligible to file a wrongful death claim. Understanding eligibility can help prevent any unnecessary legal frustrations during an already overwhelming period. 

In Missouri, three groups with varying priority levels can have legal standing to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These include: 

• Group 1: The decedent's immediate family members, including the decedent's spouse, biological and adopted children, and parents, have priority in a wrongful death lawsuit. Their involvement assures focus on justice and closure. 
• Group 2: This includes the decedent’s siblings and their descendants. This group may provide additional perspectives on relationships and personal impacts for consideration.
• Group 3: In some circumstances, a plaintiff ad litem may be granted permission to sue on behalf of the estate, ensuring that justice is sought even when direct family connections might be minimal.

Understanding Missouri's Wrongful Death Laws

Missouri's wrongful death laws are designed to provide a legal framework for families seeking justice and recompense for the wrongful loss of a loved one. As these laws can be complex, understanding the particulars can help in navigating the claims process with more confidence. Missouri law allows designated family members to file a wrongful death claim, ensuring that those who have suffered the emotional and financial impact of such a loss have a pathway to seek redress.

It's pertinent to note that Missouri follows a comparative negligence statute. This means that if the decedent is found partially at fault for the circumstances leading to their death, the compensation awarded may be reduced by their percentage of fault. Understanding these nuances is essential for aligning legal strategies effectively. By having knowledgeable support, families can focus on healing while knowing their legal rights are well-represented.

Get the experienced and compassionate legal representation your family needs. Contact a Springfield wrongful death lawyer at (417) 785-3410 today.