St. Louis, Missouri Wrongful Death Attorney

Bringing a Wrongful Death Claim in Missouri

When a person acts in a reckless or careless manner, those acts can result in injury or even death. If this occurs, a family is left behind to struggle with the loss. Obviously, the most difficult struggle is the anguish and emptiness that the family feels. In addition, they are suddenly left with funeral and medical expenses, unexpected time away from work, and loss of the deceased’s contributions.

According to Section 537.080 of the Missouri Revised Statutes, certain individuals are authorized to bring a lawsuit against those responsible for their loved one’s death. Henderson & Waterkotte, P.C. can assist you in understanding your rights and your options. Contact us anytime at 314-645-4400.

Individuals Entitled to Bring a Missouri Action for Wrongful Death

Under Missouri Law, the first class of individuals that may bring a lawsuit are the spouse, children or lineal descendants, or parents of the deceased. If there isn’t anyone in the first class, then the deceased’s siblings or their lineal descendants may bring a lawsuit for wrongful death. Beyond that, a person must be appointed by the court to bring suit on the deceased’s behalf.

Underlying Events Leading to Wrongful Death Litigation

Wrongful death is its own cause of action. However, some common underlying events that can result in wrongful death litigation include the following:

Compensatory Damages in a Missouri Wrongful Death Case

In a Missouri wrongful death lawsuit, a jury is entitled to compensate the deceased’s family for certain things. These include funeral and medical expenses, consortium, companionship, loss of comfort and guidance, loss of support, and any pain the deceased may have suffered between the time of injury and time of death.

Contact a St. Louis, Missouri Wrongful Death Attorney

If one of your family members has died as a result of another’s carelessness, contact one of our attorneys at 314-645-4400. Attorneys Mick Henderson and Steven Waterkotte are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and are willing to meet you at a convenient location.