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The loss of a loved one is never easy, and when that loss occurs due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions, it can feel even more overwhelming. At Knutson + Casey, we provide compassionate and experienced legal representation for families in Faribault. We understand both the emotional toll and the complexity of wrongful death cases, and we are committed to helping you seek justice and secure the financial support your family deserves during this incredibly difficult time.
In Minnesota, a wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit that can be filed when a person dies due to the negligent or wrongful actions of another. If the deceased person would have had the right to file a personal injury claim had they survived, their family can pursue a wrongful death claim on their behalf.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim & When?
A wrongful death lawsuit in Faribault must be filed by a court-appointed representative—usually a surviving spouse, child, parent, or other close family member. This person will represent all affected family members during the process.
Statute of Limitations:
3 years from the date of death
6 years from the date of the incident (if applicable)
That Statute of limitations is “usually 6 years, but can be as short as 2 years”
Wrongful deaths can occur in a variety of circumstances. Some common causes include:
Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents
Medical malpractice or surgical errors
Defective products or unsafe premises
Criminal acts or reckless behavior
Workplace accidents or machinery malfunctions
Minnesota law allows surviving family members to recover several types of damages in a wrongful death claim, including:
1. Funeral and burial expenses
2. Medical bills related to the fatal injury
3. Loss of income, benefits, and financial support
4. Loss of companionship, guidance, and care
5. Emotional distress and pain experienced by the deceased before death
6. Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm
Recent updates in Minnesota law allow for additional compensation related to the emotional and physical suffering the decedent endured prior to their death.
At Knutson + Casey, we offer a full range of services to assist you throughout the wrongful death process, including:
Appointing a Trustee: We help you select and appoint a qualified representative to file the claim.
Thorough Investigation: We gather crucial evidence, such as medical records, accident reports, expert testimony, and more.
Accurate Valuation of Losses: We assess your full losses, including future financial support and emotional harm.
Complete Legal Handling: From document filing to settlement negotiation and courtroom litigation, we manage it all.
Maximizing Results: We pursue the full compensation your family is entitled to, based on Minnesota’s updated wrongful death laws.
Wrongful death claims are time-sensitive, so it’s crucial to act quickly. Typically, you have three years from the date of death or six years from the date of the incident to file a claim. Delaying could result in losing your right to pursue justice. We work quickly to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights.
1. Who is eligible to file a wrongful death claim in Faribault?
In Faribault, the wrongful death claim can be filed by a surviving spouse, child, parent, or court-appointed representative of the deceased person’s estate.
2. What types of damages can be recovered in a wrongful death case?
You may recover damages for funeral costs, medical expenses, lost wages, loss of companionship, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages.
3. How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Faribault?
You typically have three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim, or six years from the date of the incident. Cases involving murder have no statute of limitations.
4. Who will receive the compensation from a wrongful death lawsuit?
The court allocates the compensation among the surviving spouse, children, and other next of kin based on the specific losses each person has experienced.
5. Why should I hire a wrongful death lawyer in Faribault?
Wrongful death cases are legally complex and emotionally taxing. Our team will handle all the legal details, protect your family’s rights, and fight for the full compensation your loved one deserves.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to the negligence or wrongful actions of another party in Faribault, don’t go through this difficult time alone. Let Knutson + Casey provide the legal guidance, empathy, and strong advocacy your family deserves. We offer free consultations, and you won’t pay anything unless we win your case.