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Practice Areas > Wrongful Death
Wrongful Death
There’s nothing easy about dealing with the death of a loved one, especially when that death was the direct or indirect result of someone else’s negligence. At Eng & Woods, we believe the responsible party should be held accountable, and our wrongful death attorneys will fight to get the justice and compensation you deserve. Schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys to discuss the loss in your family by visiting our contact page.
What Does a Wrongful Death Attorney Do?
Wrongful death cases are never easy due to their emotional nature. Your attorney’s first priority is to support you in what is sure to be an immensely difficult time for you and your family while also building a strong claim that protects your rights. Here are three key things we do when building a wrongful death case:
- We gather records, reports and evidence to understand the event and determine who may be responsible.
- We identify the parties involved and build a case showing how negligence contributed to the death.
- With our experience as accident attorneys, we handle communications, calculate damages and negotiate or litigate as needed.
Learn more about wrongful death cases in Missouri.
Find Dedicated Wrongful Death Attorneys in Columbia, MO.
While nothing can replace the loved one you lost, you can receive justice. The team at Eng & Woods wants to help you secure fair compensation. You can schedule a free consultation with a wrongful death attorney by calling 573-874-4190 or visiting our contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “wrongful death” under Missouri law?
A wrongful death in Missouri is when someone dies because of another person or company’s negligent, reckless or intentional act, similar to a personal injury case that results in death.
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Missouri?
Missouri law sets a priority list of who may file, generally starting with certain close family members (such as a spouse, children or parents), then moving to other relatives if no one in the first group is available.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Missouri?
In most cases, you must file a Missouri wrongful death lawsuit within three years of the date of death, and missing this deadline can permanently bar your claim.
Should I contact a lawyer even if I’m not ready to file right away?
Yes, speaking with a lawyer early helps protect evidence, clarify your deadlines and avoid losing your rights while you are still grieving.
What information should I bring to my first meeting with a wrongful death lawyer?
Bring any death certificates, medical records, accident or police reports, insurance letters, photos, witness information and any documents related to your loved one’s work and income so the lawyer can evaluate the claim.