Minneapolis Wrongful Death Lawyer
Providing compassionate representation to grieving families across Minnesota.
Wrongful death cases are among the most emotional and difficult matters we handle at TC Injury Law. Losing a family member is heartbreakingly painful, and the circumstances of the accident are often gut-wrenching to revisit. Appropriately resolving these cases takes special diligence and compassion, as they involve factors unique to fatal injuries and accidents. The question is, whose claim is it—the spouse, the children, another relative, or all the above? And how do you value a claim in which a wage earner or young child is lost? Will a court take into consideration the loss of love and companionship? Our experienced Minneapolis wrongful death lawyers can help you answer these questions and more.
What is wrongful death?
A wrongful death occurs when a person’s death is caused by another negligent, reckless, or wrongful act. Wrongful death is the basis for legal action—a lawsuit—against the party or parties who caused the wrongful death. The wrongful death action may be filed on behalf of the members of the family who have lost the support and company of the deceased due to wrongful death.
Who can bring a wrongful death action?
Under Minnesota law, only certain survivors of the deceased are entitled to pursue a wrongful death action. If the deceased was married, his or her spouse at the time of death could bring a wrongful death action. If the deceased had children, they could also file a claim. If the deceased was married but had no children, his or her parents can bring a wrongful death action along with the spouse. If the deceased has no surviving children or parents, brothers and sisters of the deceased are entitled to file a claim as well. If a young child dies, his or her parents are entitled to bring a wrongful death action.
What compensation is available to me if I bring a wrongful death action?
In Minnesota, eligible survivors can bring a wrongful death action not only for losses the deceased person suffered but also for losses they, themselves, have suffered because of their family member’s untimely death. These damages may include:
- Reasonable funeral and burial expenses
- Expenses for the care, treatment, and hospitalization required to treat the deceased’s final injury or illness
- Loss of services, protection, care, and/or assistance suffered by the surviving family members
- Loss of income, wages, and benefits suffered by the surviving family members
- Sorrow, mental anguish, and loss of solace
- Loss of society, companionship, care, and guidance
How long do I have to file a wrongful death action?
The Minnesota statute of limitations for bringing a wrongful death action is three years from the date of the deceased person’s death. If the claim is not filed within three years, the court will likely refuse to hear it at all, with a few rare exceptions. An experienced Minnesota wrongful death lawyer will ensure you meet all filing requirements and deadlines.
If you have lost a loved one in a fatal accident, please contact TC Injury Law. We can provide the compassionate legal guidance you need in this difficult time. We are available for evening and weekend appointments and home visits. You deserve compensation for your sudden loss. We can help you get it so that you can focus on your emotional healing.
