Wrongful Death Lawyers

Joplin Wrongful Death Attorneys

Pursuing Justice for Grieving Families in Missouri

At Bishop & Hayes, we know that no amount of compensation could possibly make up for the loss of a loved one. That's why we're committed to bringing liable parties to justice. If you recently lost a loved one due to negligence, our Joplin attorneys can help you pursue justice and fair compensation, giving your family time and space to grieve without the added financial burden of medical bills, funeral expenses, and other costs. 

Our highly skilled lawyers have over 50 years of shared experience and extensive knowledge of personal injury law to pursue a just outcome on your behalf. When you hire Bishop & Hayes, we can fight tirelessly to protect your rights and recover full damages for the unimaginable hardships you’ve suffered. With over $100 million recovered for our clients, you can rest assured that your needs are being prioritized from start to finish. 

A wrongful death can leave families struggling to cope. Our firm is here to ease your burdens and pursue justice. Call (417) 479-3510 to schedule a free consultation.

What Constitutes a Wrongful Death? 

Missouri law defines a “wrongful death” as the death of a person “resulting from any act, conduct, occurrence, transaction, or circumstance, which, if death had not ensured, would have entitled such person to recover damages” constitutes a wrongful death. 

Common incidents include: 

Other incidents leading to wrongful death include medical malpractice and violent acts or crimes. 

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Missouri?

Missouri law is very specific about who has the right to bring a wrongful death claim. According to Missouri Revised Statutes § 537.080, the order of priority is as follows:

  • Immediate family members – A surviving spouse, children (including adopted children), or the deceased’s parents have the first right to file.
  • Siblings and their descendants – If the deceased has no spouse, children, or parents, then brothers, sisters, nieces, or nephews may bring the claim.
  • Court-appointed plaintiff ad litem – If no one from the above groups is available, the court can appoint a person to represent the deceased’s estate and file on behalf of surviving beneficiaries.

Because wrongful death laws can be complex, working with our wrongful death lawyer in Joplin ensures that the proper party files the lawsuit and deadlines are met.

Compensation for Wrongful Death

While no amount of money can replace a loved one, financial compensation can ease the burden of medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost income. In Missouri, damages in wrongful death cases may include:

  • Medical expenses related to the fatal injury.
  • Funeral and burial costs.
  • Lost income and benefits the deceased would have provided over their lifetime.
  • Loss of companionship, comfort, and guidance for surviving family members.
  • Pain and suffering of the deceased before death (if applicable).

Missouri does not place a cap on most wrongful death damages, except in cases of medical malpractice where statutory limits apply. Our firm will carefully calculate the full value of your claim and fight to recover the maximum compensation available.

OUR VERDICTS & SETTLEMENTS

MORE THAN $100,000,000 RECOVERED FOR OUR CLIENTS
  • $1.5 Million Auto Accident Rollover
  • $1.1 Million Motorcycle Accident
  • $1 Million Semi-Truck Accident

The Keys to our success

  • Exclusive Focus on Auto Accident Recovery Law
  • Over $100,000,000 Total Recovered for Our Clients
  • 50 Years of Combined Experience in Car Crash Recovery
  • Same-Day Returned Phone Calls and Emails from Our Clients
  • Partners Who Handle Your Claim from Consultation to Recovery

Wrongful Death FAQs

 

How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Missouri?

Missouri law generally gives surviving family members three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline may result in losing your right to compensation.

How is compensation divided among family members?

If multiple family members are entitled to damages, the court may divide the recovery fairly among them. Our Joplin wrongful death attorney can help ensure all eligible parties are properly represented.

Do I need to prove negligence?

Yes. To succeed in a wrongful death claim, you must prove that the defendant’s negligence or misconduct directly caused your loved one’s death. This often requires medical records, accident reports, and expert testimony.

Can wrongful death cases settle outside of court?

Yes. Many wrongful death claims in Missouri are resolved through settlements with insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are fully prepared to go to trial.

 

How much does hiring a Joplin wrongful death lawyer cost?

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Why choose Bishop & Hayes P.C.?

Wrongful death cases require a balance of compassion and aggressive legal advocacy. At Bishop & Hayes P.C., we understand the emotional toll of your loss. Our team provides:

  • Personalized attention to every case—we treat clients like family.
  • Thorough investigation into the cause of death, gathering evidence, and consulting experts when needed.
  • Strong negotiation skills to pursue fair settlements with insurance companies.
  • Trial readiness if your case must be presented before a jury.

With years of experience representing families across Missouri, our Joplin wrongful death lawyer is committed to guiding you through this difficult process with dignity and determination.

If you lost a loved one due to negligence in Joplin, contact us online to learn how our skilled advocates can protect your rights and pursue justice.

Hear from our clients

WE PUT YOUR EXPERIENCE AND YOUR RECOVERY FIRST
    “They are really good people, very friendly and helpful!”
    “They are really good people very friendly and helpful!”
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    “Tim and his staff are wonderful to work with!”
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    “Over the top knowledgeable!”
    “There aren't enough words to say how much I appreciate my first meeting with Tim Hayes!!”
    - Jeanette B.

Contact us today

Devoted Auto Accident attorneys ready to help you recover
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