The unexpected loss of a family member is always difficult to deal with. When a loved one dies because of the negligent or reckless acts of another, an even greater sense of injustice results. Aside from the emotional difficulty, many families face substantial economic turmoil when the primary wage earner passes away unexpectedly.

LIABILITY FOR WRONGFUL DEATH
Wrongful death claims involve the death of a loved one due to another person’s criminal, reckless or negligent conduct. Under Minnesota law a “person” may include an individual or business – such as a bar, employer or other company. Wrongful death often results from a drunk driver killing a motorist or passenger in an automobile, negligent care at a nursing home, medical malpractice, railroad crossing accidents, natural gas explosions, electrocution or construction site accidents.

WRONGFUL DEATH LAWSUITS
A trustee must be appointed by the court to represent all of the interested parties in a wrongful death lawsuit. This individual is usually a close relative to friend of the decedent. Once the trustee recovers all of the compensation allowed under Minnesota law, the court must approve the proposed disbursement to the surviving heirs. In most cases the division is not disputed.

DAMAGES RECOVERABLE IN WRONGFUL DEATH CASES
Damages that are recoverable in a wrongful death action include final medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, future earnings expected over the decedent’s lifetime, lost benefits to the surviving family members and loss of companionship. Punitive damages may also be recovered. We understand, however, that no amount of money can replace the person you’ve lost.

STATUE OF LIMITATIONS
Under Minnesota’s statute of limitations, a claim must be filed within three years from the date of death. If the case is filed after the relevant deadline, it will be denied. For that reason, it is important to act swiftly so that a proper investigation can occur.

WRONGFUL DEATH ATTORNEYS WHO WILL PROTECT YOU
The wrongful death lawyers with Brown Law Offices, P.A. represent clients who have lost a loved one as the result of another’s negligence. Our lawyers are dedicated to protecting the rights of surviving heirs and have helped obtain many favorable wrongful death settlements. Wrongful death cases are accepted on a contingency basis. You owe no fee for our services unless we obtain a settlement in your case.