Losing a family member to someone else's negligence is a devastating, life-altering event. Missouri's wrongful death statute allows surviving spouses, children, and parents to seek compensation for their loss — though strict deadlines apply.
Wrongful Death Cases in Missouri
When a Missouri family loses a loved one to someone else's negligence — in a crash, a workplace incident, a medical error, or a dangerous property condition — the grief is compounded by financial strain. Missouri's wrongful death law gives surviving family members a path to accountability and compensation.
How Missouri Law Applies to Wrongful Death Claims
Missouri's wrongful death statute (§537.080) sets who may bring a claim — generally the spouse, children, or parents — and a claim must usually be filed within three years of the death. Damages can include medical and funeral expenses, lost financial support, and the loss of the loved one's companionship, guidance, and comfort.
Injuries and Damages We Help Recover
No amount of money replaces a life, but compensation can stabilize a family's future. Claims may cover the deceased's final medical bills, funeral and burial costs, lost wages and benefits the family depended on, and the profound loss of relationship and support.
What to Do After a Wrongful Death in Missouri
Preserve any evidence related to the death, keep records of expenses, and avoid early settlement discussions with insurers. Because the three-year deadline is firm and evidence can fade, families benefit from speaking with an attorney soon after the loss.
Missouri Deadlines Matter
Missouri's statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is generally five years from the date of injury (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120). Wrongful death claims must generally be filed within three years (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 537.100), and medical malpractice claims generally within two years (Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.105). Missing a filing deadline can permanently bar your claim — talk to a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death Claims in Missouri
Most Missouri personal injury claims must be filed within five years of the injury, though some claim types (such as wrongful death or medical malpractice) have shorter deadlines. Acting early protects your evidence and your rights.
Personal injury attorneys in our network work on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing up front, and the attorney is paid only if you recover compensation. Your initial case review is always free.
Missouri follows a pure comparative fault rule, so you can recover compensation even if you share some responsibility. Your award is reduced by your percentage of fault, which makes strong evidence important.
Value depends on the severity of your injuries, your medical costs, lost income, and the lasting impact on your life. There's no fixed formula. A free case review can help you understand what your specific claim may be worth.