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Lansing Wrongful Death Lawyer
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Losing someone you love is hard under any circumstances. Grief often takes on a different weight when the loss is due to someone else’s negligence. Families must navigate medical bills, funeral expenses, and the unexpected loss of income or support, in addition to the emotional impact. It can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies may reach out quickly with a settlement offer, and it can be tempting to accept just to relieve some of the financial pressure. Before making that decision, it is important to understand the rights available to you.
Time is also a factor. As weeks and months pass, evidence may become harder to gather, and memories can fade. Michigan’s statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a wrongful death claim. If that deadline passes, you may lose the opportunity to pursue compensation allowed under Michigan law.
At Matz Injury Law, we work with families during these difficult periods and handle the legal side of the case so they can focus on what matters most. This often includes investigating the incident, communicating with insurance representatives, and preparing a wrongful death claim that reflects the full impact of the loss. While no legal action can undo what happened, steady legal guidance can make the process more manageable as your family begins to move forward.
Why Partner With Matz Injury Law for Your Lansing, MI, Wrongful Death Case
Choosing the right law firm after a loved one’s death is an important decision. At Matz Injury Law, our Lansing wrongful death lawyers combine legal experience with compassion. We understand how insurance companies approach these claims and how to respond effectively. We take a personalized approach, explain the legal process clearly, and support grieving families at each stage.
Trusted by Michigan Families Since 1977
For more than 45 years, Matz Injury Law has represented individuals and families across Michigan. We are part of the communities we serve, including Lansing, East Lansing, Okemos, and Grand Rapids. Our long-standing presence reflects steady experience handling complex claims under Michigan law. When you hire us, you work with a firm that has remained committed to supporting local families during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
Over $300 Million Recovered for Injury Victims and Wrongful Death Claims
Our track record speaks for itself. We have successfully recovered over $300 million in settlements and verdicts for our clients across the state of Michigan. This massive recovery includes compensation for medical expenses, burial expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be judged on its own merits.
Recognized Trial Attorneys
Insurance companies pay attention to whether a law firm is prepared to take a case to trial. We are ready to pursue litigation when a fair resolution cannot be reached through negotiation. Our attorneys have received professional recognitions, including:
- Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent® Rating
- Super Lawyers
- Michigan’s Top Attorneys
- The National Trial Lawyers Top 100
- America’s Top 100 High-Stakes Litigators
These recognitions relate to professional achievement and peer review within the legal field.
Our Client Testimonials
“I was given Steven’s information from my cousin that retained his services, and I have to say I am so pleased we did the same. The leave of professionalism was outstanding, I never had to wonder or guess what was going to happen. Steven and his staff kept us up to date and informed in every step throughout our process. I highly recommend Matz Injury Law Firm.” — Michelle W.
“Absolutely the most amazing lawyer we could have asked for . I couldn’t thank you enough for sticking with us and helping us with everything! Jared is the guy for you ! 10/10” — Victoria T.
“Jared is amazing at what he does, he is a blessing. Thank you very much Jared for everything you are doing and have done for us !” — Nathan A.
Meet Our Experienced Lansing Wrongful Death Lawyer
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Attorneys Today
You do not have to handle this on your own. We can help you understand your rights and the next steps available under Michigan law. During your free consultation, we will review what happened and explain your legal options clearly.
Call 866-226-6833 or complete our contact form to get started.
What Is Wrongful Death Under Michigan Law?
A wrongful death occurs when a person dies because of the legal fault of another person or company. That fault is usually based on negligence, meaning a failure to use reasonable care, but it can also involve reckless or intentional conduct. These cases allow certain surviving family members to seek compensation for their loss under Michigan law. Common examples include fatal car accidents, truck collisions, motorcycle crashes, and workplace incidents involving unsafe conditions. Because wrongful death laws vary by state, working with a lawyer who understands Michigan’s specific rules can be important.
What a Michigan Wrongful Death Case Can Include
In Michigan, a wrongful death case is filed by the personal representative of the estate and may include different types of damages arising from the same fatal incident.
Some damages relate to the losses experienced by eligible family members, such as loss of companionship, mental anguish, and financial support the deceased person would have provided.
Other damages relate to what the deceased person experienced between the injury and death. These may include medical expenses related to the final injury, lost wages before death, and compensation for conscious pain and suffering.
Michigan law allows these damages to be pursued together within a single wrongful death case.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Lansing, Michigan?
Under Michigan’s Wrongful Death Act, a lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. Individual family members cannot file the claim on their own. The personal representative is typically named in a will or appointed by a probate court.
Those who may receive compensation, often referred to as beneficiaries, commonly include:
- Spouse
- Children and descendants
- Parents
- Grandparents
- Siblings
If no eligible family members exist, damages may be distributed through the estate according to Michigan law.
What Compensation Is Available in a Michigan Wrongful Death Claim?
When evaluating a wrongful death claim, Michigan law allows recovery for both financial and non-financial losses.
Economic Damages
These are measurable financial losses caused by the death. They may include:
- Medical expenses related to the fatal injury or illness
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost income the deceased person would have earned
- Lost employment benefits, such as health insurance or pension contributions
Non-Economic Damages
These damages address the personal and emotional losses experienced by surviving family members. They may include:
- Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
Exemplary Damages
Michigan does not allow punitive damages. Damage awards are meant to compensate the injured person or their family rather than punish the wrongdoer.
In some situations, Michigan law may allow exemplary damages. These damages are intended to compensate for additional emotional harm caused by particularly outrageous conduct. Whether exemplary damages are available depends on the specific facts and legal claims involved, and they are not appropriate in every case.
Why Hire a Lansing Wrongful Death Attorney
Pursuing a wrongful death claim while you are grieving can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies often attempt to limit payouts, and Michigan’s legal process can be complex. Working with a wrongful death lawyer can help you understand your options and protect your interests. We handle the legal filings, communicate with insurance representatives, and evaluate both the financial losses and the personal impact of your loss so the claim reflects the full extent of the harm involved.
When Should I Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer?
You should consider contacting a lawyer as soon as possible after the loss of your loved one. Acting promptly allows for preservation of important evidence, communication with witnesses while memories are fresh, and timely compliance with court deadlines, including the statute of limitations. Early legal involvement can improve the strength and organization of a claim.
How Our Lansing Wrongful Death Lawyers Can Help You
When you work with us, we manage the legal process so you can focus on your family. We:
- Investigate the circumstances surrounding the death, including reviewing accident reports and medical records when appropriate
- Identify all potentially responsible parties
- Evaluate the full scope of financial and non-financial losses, including future financial support
- Negotiate with insurance companies for a fair resolution
- Represent you at trial if a reasonable settlement cannot be reached
Who May Be Held Liable in a Michigan Wrongful Death Case
Liability depends on the specific facts of the case. Any person or entity whose negligence caused the death may be held legally responsible. Depending on the circumstances, potentially liable parties may include:
- Negligent drivers involved in motor vehicle accidents
- Employers responsible for unsafe workplace conditions
- Nursing homes for neglect or abuse
- Manufacturers of defective products
- Property owners who fail to maintain safe premises
How to File a Wrongful Death Claim
Filing a wrongful death claim in Michigan generally involves the following steps:
- Consult a lawyer: We meet with you to review the facts and discuss your legal options.
- Appoint a personal representative: If one has not already been named, the probate court appoints someone to manage the estate.
- Investigation and documentation: We gather medical records, accident reports, and documentation establishing the relationship to the deceased person.
- File the complaint: The wrongful death lawsuit is filed in the appropriate Michigan court.
- Notify beneficiaries: Eligible family members receive notice of the lawsuit as required by Michigan law.
- Resolution: The case may resolve through negotiation or proceed to trial if a settlement cannot be reached.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Michigan
Wrongful death claims in Michigan can arise from a range of tragic circumstances, including:
- Motor vehicle accidents, including car and truck crashes caused by distracted, impaired, or reckless driving
- Workplace incidents involving unsafe conditions
- Nursing home neglect, including malnutrition, untreated infections, or preventable falls
- Defective products that create dangerous conditions
- Hazardous property conditions that result in fatal injuries
How Do You Prove Negligence in a Michigan Wrongful Death Case?
To succeed in a Michigan wrongful death case, four legal elements must generally be established:
- Duty of care: The defendant owed a legal duty to act with reasonable care.
- Breach of duty: The defendant failed to meet that duty.
- Causation: The breach directly caused the fatal injury.
- Damages: The death resulted in measurable financial and non-financial losses to eligible family members.
These elements are supported through evidence such as accident reports, medical records, witness statements, expert testimony, and other relevant documentation.
How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Michigan?
Acting within the required time frame is important. In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit is generally three years from the date of the person’s death. If a claim is not filed within that period, the court may dismiss the case, which can prevent recovery of compensation.
Certain limited exceptions may extend, or toll, the deadline in specific circumstances. Because these exceptions are narrow and fact-specific, speaking with a lawyer early can help protect your legal options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Evidence Do I Need to Prove a Wrongful Death Case?
Evidence in a wrongful death case may include medical records, accident reports, witness statements, expert opinions, and financial documentation showing the impact of the loss. The specific evidence depends on how the death occurred and who may be legally responsible.
Can I File a Wrongful Death Claim if There’s Already a Criminal Case?
Yes. A wrongful death claim is a civil case and is separate from any criminal proceedings. Civil cases seek financial compensation and use a lower burden of proof than criminal cases. Both matters can move forward at the same time.
Can Multiple Family Members Receive Compensation?
Yes. In Michigan, multiple eligible family members may receive compensation in a wrongful death case. The court determines distribution based on each person’s relationship to the deceased and the losses they experienced.
How Is Compensation Distributed Among Family Members?
In Michigan, the court oversees how wrongful death compensation is distributed among eligible family members. Distribution is based on each person’s financial and emotional losses rather than an automatic equal split.
Protect Your Rights After a Loved One’s Passing. Speak With a Michigan Wrongful Death Lawyer.
Losing a loved one is devastating. While financial recovery cannot replace what was lost, a wrongful death claim may help provide support for medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost income while holding the responsible party accountable under Michigan law.
At Matz Injury Law, we treat every family with compassion and respect. We offer a free consultation and handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you do not pay attorney’s fees unless compensation is recovered.
Call 866-226-6833 or complete our contact form to discuss your legal options with our personal injury lawyers.
Written By Steven Matz
Steven J. Matz is the founder of Matz Injury Law, specializing in personal injury litigation with a focus on car accident victims. With over 40 years of legal experience, Mr. Matz has achieved numerous million-dollar settlements. He holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and has been recognized among Michigan’s Top Attorneys. Steven J. Matz is a frequent lecturer on legal ethics and personal injury law, and serves on the Michigan Attorney Discipline Board.
