The sudden death of a loved one is devastating under any circumstances. But when that loss is caused by another person’s negligence, recklessness, or wrongful actions, the pain is magnified by a deep sense of injustice.
In Missouri, families have the right to hold negligent parties accountable through a wrongful death lawsuit.
At Sansone & Lauber, our experienced wrongful death lawyers have built a reputation for aggressive, results-driven representation. We fight tirelessly to secure the justice, answers, and financial compensation that grieving families deserve.
If you are facing the unimaginable loss of a loved one due to someone else’s actions, you do not have to face the legal battle alone. We are here to stand beside you, protect your rights, and demand full accountability.
What Is Wrongful Death Under Missouri Law?
Under Missouri law (RSMo § 537.080), wrongful death occurs when a person’s death is caused by the “act, conduct, occurrence, transaction, or circumstance” of another person or entity who could have been held liable had the victim survived.
This means that a wrongful death claim is essentially a personal injury lawsuit filed on behalf of someone who can no longer bring the claim themselves. It can arise from many types of negligence, including:
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Car accidents caused by drunk or distracted drivers
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Trucking accidents involving fatigued or improperly trained drivers
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Medical malpractice and hospital errors
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Dangerous or defective products
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Workplace accidents due to safety violations
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Premises liability accidents, such as falls or unsafe property conditions
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Nursing home abuse or neglect
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Criminal acts leading to death
Our Missouri wrongful death attorneys investigate every detail to uncover the truth and build the strongest possible case.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Missouri?
Missouri law sets clear rules on who can file a wrongful death lawsuit. This is important because not every family member is automatically entitled to bring a claim.
Priority for Filing:
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Spouse, children, or grandchildren of the deceased
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Parents of the deceased
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Siblings of the deceased, if no spouse, child, grandchild, or parent survives
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Plaintiff ad litem – a court-appointed representative when no immediate family member is available
At Sansone & Lauber, we ensure that the rightful party steps forward and that your claim is filed within the strict deadlines set by Missouri law.
Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in Missouri
Time is critical. In Missouri, most wrongful death lawsuits must be filed within three years from the date of death. Missing this deadline can permanently bar you from recovering compensation.
We recommend contacting a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible so we can:
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Preserve vital evidence before it disappears
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Interview witnesses while their memories are fresh
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Prevent the insurance company from controlling the narrative
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Protect your family’s rights from day one
Proving a Wrongful Death Case in Missouri
To win a wrongful death lawsuit, you must prove that the defendant’s actions (or inaction) directly caused your loved one’s death. This requires establishing:
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Duty of Care – The defendant had a legal obligation to act with reasonable care.
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Breach of Duty – The defendant failed to uphold that duty (e.g., by driving recklessly).
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Causation – The breach of duty caused the death.
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Damages – The death resulted in measurable losses for surviving family members.
Our legal team works with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, economists, and investigators to build airtight cases backed by hard evidence.
Compensation Available in Missouri Wrongful Death Cases
While no amount of money can replace your loved one, financial compensation can help ease the economic burden and secure your family’s future. In Missouri, damages may include:
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Medical expenses related to the fatal injury
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Funeral and burial costs
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Loss of income and benefits the deceased would have provided
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Loss of companionship, guidance, and support
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Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death
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Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct
Our Missouri wrongful death lawyers fight for maximum compensation, not quick settlements.
Why Choose Sansone & Lauber as Your Wrongful Death Lawyers
We know you have many choices when searching for a wrongful death attorney in Missouri. Here’s what sets us apart:
Proven Track Record
We have recovered millions for clients in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases, including some of the largest verdicts in Missouri history.
Aggressive Representation
Insurance companies know we will take cases to trial if necessary — and that pressure often results in higher settlement offers.
Compassionate Support
We handle the legal battle so you can focus on grieving and healing, keeping you informed at every step.
No Fees Unless We Win
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Missouri
Our law firm has successfully handled wrongful death cases arising from:
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Car Accidents – Drunk driving, distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield
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Truck Accidents – Overloaded trucks, driver fatigue, unsafe lane changes
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Motorcycle Accidents – Negligent drivers failing to see motorcyclists
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Medical Malpractice – Surgical errors, misdiagnosis, medication mistakes
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Nursing Home Neglect – Falls, untreated bedsores, malnutrition
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Workplace Accidents – Unsafe equipment, lack of protective gear
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Defective Products – Unsafe machinery, recalled consumer goods
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Premises Liability – Poor lighting, broken stairways, security failures
Steps to Take After a Wrongful Death in Missouri
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Contact a Wrongful Death Lawyer Immediately – Protect your rights from the start.
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Preserve All Evidence – Photos, witness information, accident reports.
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Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters – They aim to minimize payouts.
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Document Financial Losses – Lost wages, medical bills, funeral costs.
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Focus on Your Family – Let your attorney handle the legal process.
The Insurance Company Is Not on Your Side
After a wrongful death, insurance companies often act quickly to limit their exposure. They may:
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Offer a lowball settlement before you know the full value of your claim
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Shift blame to the deceased
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Delay the claims process to pressure you into accepting less
Our wrongful death attorneys know every tactic in their playbook — and we don’t back down.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death in Missouri
How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim?
Generally, three years from the date of death, but certain exceptions may apply.
Can I recover damages for emotional suffering?
Yes. Missouri law allows recovery for loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support.
Do I need to go to trial?
Many cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it will go to trial to maximize leverage.
What if criminal charges are also filed?
A wrongful death claim is separate from any criminal case. You can pursue civil damages regardless of criminal prosecution.
Why Acting Quickly Is Critical
In wrongful death cases, evidence can be lost or destroyed within days. Surveillance footage may be erased. Witnesses may move or forget crucial details. The sooner you hire a wrongful death lawyer, the stronger your case will be.
Contact Sansone & Lauber – Missouri Wrongful Death Lawyers
If your family has lost a loved one due to another’s negligence, we are ready to fight for justice. Our wrongful death lawyers serve clients throughout Missouri, including St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, and beyond.
📞 Call us today at (314) 863-0500 or fill out our online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We will listen to your story, explain your rights, and take swift action to hold negligent parties accountable.
Sansone & Lauber – Fighting for Justice. Winning for Families.
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