Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Missouri?
August 20, 2025
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Missouri?
Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful act is devastating. Along with the emotional toll, families are often left with unexpected financial burdens such as funeral expenses, medical bills, and lost income. Missouri law allows certain surviving family members to file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek justice and financial compensation. Understanding who can bring this type of claim is an important first step in protecting your rights.
Who Is Eligible to File?
Missouri law outlines specific categories of individuals who may file a wrongful death lawsuit:
- Spouse, Children, or Grandchildren
The surviving spouse, children, or grandchildren of the deceased are first in line to pursue a claim. - Parents of the Deceased
If there is no surviving spouse, child, or grandchild, the deceased person’s parents may file a wrongful death action. - Siblings and Their Descendants
If the deceased has no surviving spouse, children, grandchildren, or parents, then siblings or their descendants may bring the lawsuit. - Court-Appointed Plaintiff Ad Litem
If no eligible family members exist in the categories above, the court may appoint a “plaintiff ad litem,” often a representative chosen by the court to pursue the claim on behalf of the deceased person’s estate.
Damages That May Be Recovered
A wrongful death lawsuit can help families recover compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical costs related to the final injury or illness
- Lost wages and benefits the deceased would have earned
- Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before passing
- Loss of companionship, support, and guidance
Why Legal Guidance Matters
Wrongful death laws in Missouri are complex, and time limits apply. Families only have a limited window of time to bring a claim, making it important to act quickly. Having legal representation ensures that your case is handled correctly and that your family’s interests are protected.
At The Khouri Law Firm, we provide legal assistance to families in St. Louis during some of the most difficult times of their lives. We work to hold responsible parties accountable and to secure the financial recovery families need.
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Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Missouri?
Work accidents can happen at any time, in any industry, and often result in significant physical, emotional, and financial strain on employees and their families. At Khouri Law Firm in Missouri, we understand the complexities surrounding workplace injuries and are committed to helping workers navigate their legal rights to obtain the compensation they deserve.  Common Causes of Work Accidents Workplace accidents can arise from various conditions, but some common causes include: Slips, Trips, and Falls: These are among the most frequent workplace injuries, particularly in environments such as construction sites or retail spaces, where surfaces can be slippery or uneven. Overexertion: Lifting heavy objects or performing repetitive motions can lead to musculoskeletal injuries, which are prevalent in industries such as manufacturing and healthcare. Machinery Accidents: Employees operating heavy machinery or equipment are at risk of serious injury if safety protocols aren’t followed. Exposure to Harmful Substances: Chemical burns, respiratory problems, and other injuries can occur in workplaces where toxic materials are handled. Transportation Accidents: Drivers or workers operating vehicles for their job, like delivery or commercial truck drivers, face risks of crashes or collisions. Missouri Workers’ Compensation Laws Missouri law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This system provides benefits to employees injured on the job, regardless of fault. Key benefits include: Medical Expenses: Coverage for medical treatment and rehabilitation services. Lost Wages: Compensation for wages lost during recovery, either partial or total, depending on the injury's severity. Permanent Disability: Benefits for those who suffer a long-term or permanent disability due to a work accident. Death Benefits: Financial compensation for the family of a worker who tragically loses their life in a workplace accident. What Should You Do After a Work Accident? If you’ve been injured at work, it’s important to take the following steps to protect your rights: Report the Injury: Notify your employer immediately about the accident and the injury. In Missouri, you typically have 30 days to report a work-related injury. Seek Medical Attention: Get medical care right away. Your employer or workers’ compensation insurer may require you to visit specific doctors for treatment. File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: After your injury is reported, your employer should assist with filing a claim to ensure you receive benefits. Document Everything: Keep records of your injury, medical treatments, communication with your employer, and any other relevant information. When Should You Contact an Attorney? Although Missouri’s workers’ compensation system is designed to help injured workers, disputes and complications can arise. You may need to consult with an experienced attorney at Khouri Law Firm if: Your claim is denied or delayed. You are offered inadequate benefits. Your employer retaliates against you for filing a claim. You suffer a permanent disability and need assistance with securing long-term benefits. At Khouri Law Firm, we specialize in handling work accident cases and are dedicated to ensuring our clients are fairly compensated for their injuries. We will work diligently to guide you through the workers’ compensation process and fight for your rights, whether it involves negotiating a settlement or pursuing litigation. Workplace accidents can cause devastating effects on your health, finances, and overall well-being. Missouri workers’ compensation laws are in place to protect you, but having the right legal support can make a significant difference in securing the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a work-related accident, Khouri Law Firm is here to help. Contact us today for a consultation and let us help you get back on your feet.