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Midland Michigan Wrongful Death Lawyers
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One moment your family feels whole. The next, you are facing the unthinkable because someone else acted carelessly. The shock, the grief, and the unanswered questions can feel constant. At the same time, medical bills, funeral expenses, and the sudden loss of income may create immediate financial pressure.
Insurance companies sometimes reach out quickly, often before you have had time to understand your rights under Michigan wrongful death law. Important evidence such as medical records, electronic communications, witness statements, and scene documentation can become harder to obtain without prompt action. If a wrongful death lawsuit is not filed within the time allowed by Michigan’s statute of limitations, a court may dismiss the claim, preventing your family from pursuing the compensation the law permits.
At Matz Injury Law, we guide Midland families through each step with clarity and respect. We handle wrongful death cases involving car accidents, truck accidents, and unsafe property conditions, and we deal directly with insurance companies so you can focus on your family.
Trusted Midland Wrongful Death Lawyer Fighting for Grieving Families
The death of a loved one caused by negligence can create emotional and financial consequences that last for years. Under the Michigan Wrongful Death Act, a civil claim may be brought when the deceased person would have been entitled to file a personal injury lawsuit had they survived. These claims must follow specific statutory and procedural requirements.
Wrongful death cases in Midland are governed by Michigan law. Courts require compliance with statutory language, probate procedures, and evidentiary standards. A Midland wrongful death attorney evaluates the facts, identifies the responsible party, and pursues fair compensation allowed under state law.
Matz Injury Law has years of experience representing families across Michigan. We focus on accountability, pursuing compensation permitted by law, and protecting the rights of surviving family members during this difficult time of profound loss.
Why Choose Matz Injury Law For Your Wrongful Death Case
Choosing a law firm during a period of grief requires trust. Families need attorneys who listen carefully, explain options clearly, and build a strong case supported by evidence. At Matz Injury Law, we tailor our approach to each family’s needs and maintain clear communication throughout the attorney-client relationship.
Fighting for Justice for Michigan Families Since 1977
Since 1977, we have represented injured individuals and families across Michigan. We have traveled throughout the state to meet people in person and handle serious injury and wrongful death cases. This long-standing commitment reflects decades of service to Michigan communities and our continued focus on pursuing compensation permitted by law for grieving families.
$300+ Million Recovered on Behalf of Injury Victims
We have recovered more than $300 million for injured individuals across Michigan in personal injury cases. This figure reflects cumulative settlements and verdicts obtained in a range of injury matters, including wrongful death cases.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every wrongful death claim depends on its own facts, evidence, and applicable law.
Recognized Trial Lawyers with a Record of Success in Wrongful Death Claims
Wrongful death lawsuits sometimes proceed to trial. We have earned recognition for courtroom advocacy and professional standards in our legal representation, 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
Helping Families Keep More of Their Recovery With Our 22% Fee Promise
We handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis. Under our 22% fee structure, attorney’s fees are calculated as 22% of the recovery obtained in the case. We collect fees only if compensation is recovered. During the free consultation, we explain case expenses and costs so families understand how deductions are handled.
This structure allows families to pursue legal action without upfront attorney’s fees.
Our Client Testimonials and Success Stories
“My parents were involved in a fatal car accident, where we needed guidance dealing with the insurance company. A month after the accident the insurance agency had stopped addressing our calls and emails. Retaining Steve Matz and his team was the absolute best decision we made for my mom. He was professional from start to finish and we had a settlement quickly. Steve answered all of our calls and emails, and assured us that he would take care of our family during this time. If you are questioning whether seeking guidance is needed, don’t hesitate and reach out. Steve was very open about what he could do for our case, and how retaining his services could impact our timeline. We felt as though we were talking to a friend, not an attorney, whom checked on us often. Thank you for all you have done for our family, especially my mom during this time. Your service and compassion deserves more than 5 stars!” — Sarah M.
“This past year has been the most difficult of our lives after losing our 16-year-old daughter to a drunk driver. In the midst of our grief, we reached out to Matz Injury Law to explore our options. From the very beginning, Steve was exceptional—he carefully explained every possible avenue and ensured no detail was overlooked, all while respecting our wishes. Not only did Steve guide us through the civil and probate process, but he also supported us throughout the criminal trial of the driver responsible for our daughter’s death. Although I initially resisted the idea of receiving anything for her loss, Steve gently encouraged us to pursue the insurance payouts we were entitled to. His deep empathy for my wife and our two other children helped ease the weight of this tragedy. Thank you, Steve, for your unwavering support.” — Dennis B.
“My family is grateful for Steve Matz’s professional handling of our case. Steve was very thorough, candid, responsive, and strategic in his approach throughout our legal proceedings. If ever in a situation again like my family has experienced over the past year, we would immediately retain Matz Injury Law to represent our interests. Thank you Steve.” — John P.
What Is Considered Wrongful Death in Midland, Michigan?
Under Michigan Compiled Laws Section 600.2922, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies because of another party’s wrongful act, neglect, or fault, and the person would have had the right to file a personal injury lawsuit if they had survived. A wrongful death claim is a civil action and is separate from any criminal prosecution.
How Negligence Is Determined Under Michigan Law
To establish negligence, the following elements must be proven:
- The defendant owed a duty of care to the deceased.
- The defendant breached that duty.
- The breach caused the death.
- The death resulted in legally recognized damages.
These elements often apply in cases involving car accidents, truck accidents, dangerous property conditions, or other negligent conduct.
Difference Between Criminal Charges and Civil Wrongful Death Claims
Criminal charges are brought by the state of Michigan and focus on punishment. A wrongful death lawsuit is filed by the personal representative of the estate and seeks financial compensation for eligible family members. In civil court, liability must be proven by a preponderance of the evidence, which is a lower standard than proof beyond a reasonable doubt used in criminal cases.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Michigan?
Under Michigan law, a wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. Family members cannot file the lawsuit directly.
The Role of the Personal Representative
The personal representative is appointed through probate court. This person opens the estate, files the wrongful death suit, and represents the interests of eligible beneficiaries during settlement negotiations or trial.
Eligible Family Members Under Michigan Law
Damages may be awarded to eligible family members under Michigan law. These may include:
- The spouse of the deceased person.
- Children and other descendants.
- Parents and grandparents.
- Siblings.
- The children of the deceased’s spouse.
- In some situations, certain beneficiaries named in a will.
Any recovery is distributed according to Michigan law and may require probate court approval.
How Probate Affects a Wrongful Death Case
A wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the estate. That typically requires opening an estate in probate court and obtaining formal appointment before the case proceeds. Courts often review settlements to determine how compensation is allocated among surviving family members.
How Do I File a Wrongful Death Claim in Midland, MI?
Filing a wrongful death claim involves several legal steps, and the process must comply with Michigan court rules and statutory requirements. A Midland wrongful death lawyer helps guide families through each stage, including:
- Opening a probate estate so a personal representative can be appointed and the claim can legally move forward.
- Securing appointment of a personal representative.
- Investigating the circumstances of the death and gathering evidence, including medical records, electronic communications, and witness statements.
- Filing a formal complaint in the appropriate Michigan circuit court.
- Negotiating with insurance companies and preparing for litigation if a fair resolution cannot be reached.
Our personal injury lawyers manage these steps on your behalf, handle communication with insurers and opposing counsel, and work to protect your family’s rights throughout the process.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Midland Wrongful Death Case?
Under Michigan law, damages in a wrongful death case may include:
- Medical expenses related to the final injury.
- Funeral and burial expenses.
- Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided.
- Loss of companionship, society, and guidance.
- Conscious pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death.
The amount recovered depends on the specific facts, available evidence, and how the loss has affected surviving family members. We work to document both financial losses and the personal impact of the death so the full scope of harm is presented.
How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Midland?
In many Michigan wrongful death cases based on negligence, the filing deadline is generally three years from the date of death.
However, Michigan law can allow additional time in certain situations depending on when a personal representative is appointed, and strict outer limits still apply. The specific timeline depends on the facts of the case and the procedural history of the estate.
Deadlines are strictly enforced. If a claim is not filed within the time allowed by law, a court may dismiss the case, and the family may lose the right to recover compensation.
Because timing rules can vary, speaking with a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible helps protect your rights and preserve important evidence. We review the timeline carefully and take steps to file within the applicable deadline.
How a Midland Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help You
A wrongful death claim is not just paperwork. It often involves disputed liability, complex insurance issues, and difficult conversations during an already painful time.
Our personal injury attorneys step in to protect your family from common insurance tactics, including attempts to shift blame or minimize the value of your loss. We analyze the evidence, consult with appropriate professionals when necessary, and build a case that clearly explains both the financial impact and the personal loss your family has suffered.
If liability is contested, we prepare the case for litigation and present it in court when needed. Throughout the process, we handle communication with insurers and opposing counsel so you are not forced to relive the details repeatedly.
Our goal is to provide steady guidance, practical advice, and strong advocacy while you focus on your family and your healing.
Get Trusted Legal Support When It Matters Most
When someone else’s negligence takes a life, the loss is permanent. The grief can feel heavy and constant. At the same time, practical pressures do not stop. Bills arrive. Questions from insurance companies follow. You may be asked to make decisions before you feel ready.
You do not have to face this alone. We step in to guide you through the legal process with clarity and steady support. From the first conversation, we listen to your story, explain your options under Michigan law, and outline the steps ahead so you understand what to expect.
If your loved one’s death was caused by negligence in Midland or the surrounding area, speak with us about your rights. We offer a free consultation to review the circumstances and discuss whether a wrongful death claim may be appropriate.
Call our law office at 866-226-6833 or reach out through our online contact form to get started.
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.
