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Aurora Wrongful Death Lawyers

Representing the Families of Wrongful Death Victims in Missouri

At Pettit Law Office, our Aurora wrongful death attorneys represent families who have lost loved ones due to negligence, including distracted driving, medical malpractice, slip-and-fall accidents, and other preventable incidents. We provide compassionate and experienced legal support to help families pursue justice during one of the most difficult times in their lives.

Losing a loved one is devastating, especially when the death could have been prevented. Families in Aurora and throughout Southwest Missouri often face overwhelming insurance and legal pressures after a fatal accident, and we help guide them through each step by explaining Missouri wrongful death laws, gathering evidence, and supporting informed decisions about pursuing a claim.

Call Pettit Law Office today at (417) 222-6640 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our wrongful death attorney in Aurora.

Why Choose Pettit Law Office for Your Aurora Wrongful Death Case

Families in Aurora and throughout Southwest Missouri choose Pettit Law Office because wrongful death cases require both legal strength and compassionate guidance. These cases are complex, emotional, and time-sensitive, and the firm focuses on managing the legal process so families can focus on healing.

  • Over 60 years of experience representing injury victims and their families
  • Three generations of trial-tested attorneys with extensive courtroom experience
  • Thorough case investigation, including evidence gathering and liability analysis
  • Access to medical, accident reconstruction, and other relevant professionals when needed
  • Strong familiarity with Aurora and Southwest Missouri courts and insurance practices
  • Clear, consistent communication so families always understand case progress
  • Strategic negotiation with insurers, with readiness to take cases to trial when necessary
  • Client-focused representation that prioritizes both legal results and compassionate support

Accidental Death vs. Wrongful Death

Accidental death is a death caused without negligence, while wrongful death is a death where a person or entity can be held legally responsible due to negligence that must be proven. Wrongful death cases may involve multiple liable parties, and we review police reports, medical records, and witness statements, and consult professionals when needed to determine what happened and who may be responsible under Missouri law.

 

There are several types of accidents that could lead to wrongful death, such as:

Who is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Claim?

Certain individuals may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim depending on their relationship to the deceased and the laws of the state. These rules determine who has the legal right to seek compensation for the loss.

  • Spouse or domestic partner
  • Children
  • Parents
  • Siblings
  • Financial dependents
  • Personal representative (executor of the estate)

What is the Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Claims in Missouri?

In Missouri, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is generally three years from the date of death. This means a lawsuit must be filed within that period or the right to bring the claim is usually lost.

Missing the deadline typically prevents recovery, regardless of the merits of the case. Because evidence can degrade over time and legal deadlines are strict, it is important to identify the filing date early and act within the three-year window.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Wrongful Death Claim?

Missouri law allows wrongful death damages for surviving family members to help cover costs like funeral expenses and financial losses caused by the death, as well as the broader impact of losing the deceased’s support and guidance. These damages are intended to address both economic and non-economic harm and help families manage the practical consequences of their loss.


We can help seek compensation to cover expenses such as:

  • Medical bills prior to death
  • Funeral expenses
  • Loss of future wages
  • Loss of future benefits
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of consortium
  • Loss of services

How Missouri Wrongful Death Cases Typically Move Forward

Many families want to understand what happens after filing a wrongful death claim, and the process generally follows a structured set of steps from investigation through resolution.

  • Initial consultation to review the death, relevant records, and explain Missouri wrongful death law
  • Formal investigation including gathering documents, obtaining reports, and interviewing witnesses
  • Compilation and submission of a demand package to the at-fault party’s insurance company outlining liability and damages
  • Filing a lawsuit in Missouri court if a fair settlement is not reached
  • Litigation process including discovery, depositions, and potential trial
  • Ongoing attorney guidance on case updates, settlement offers, and whether to settle or proceed to trial

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer in Missouri?

Wrongful death cases in Missouri are typically handled on a contingency fee basis, which makes legal representation accessible to families without upfront costs.

  • No upfront attorney fees required to start the case
  • Attorney is paid only if compensation is recovered
  • Fee is a percentage of the final settlement or verdict
  • No payment owed if the case is not successful (in most standard arrangements)
  • Case expenses are usually advanced by the firm
  • Expenses are typically reimbursed from the recovery if the case is successful
  • Fee and cost structure is explained clearly during the initial consultation

This structure allows families to pursue justice without financial strain, while ensuring the legal team is motivated to achieve the strongest possible outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wrongful Death Claims in Missouri

What is a wrongful death claim in Missouri?

A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies due to another party’s negligence or wrongful conduct. Unlike an accidental death, a wrongful death involves legal fault that can be proven, such as in cases involving car accidents, medical malpractice, or unsafe property conditions.

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Missouri?

Missouri law establishes a specific order of priority for who may file a wrongful death claim. Eligible parties may include a spouse, children, parents, siblings, or a financially dependent individual. In some cases, a court-appointed personal representative of the deceased’s estate may bring the claim.

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

The statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of death. If a claim is not filed within this period, the right to pursue compensation is usually lost, regardless of the circumstances of the case.

What damages can be recovered in a wrongful death case?

Families may recover compensation for medical expenses prior to death, funeral costs, lost future income and benefits, as well as non-economic losses such as loss of companionship, loss of consortium, and loss of services provided by the deceased.

What should I expect during the wrongful death legal process?

The process typically begins with an initial consultation, followed by a detailed investigation, evidence collection, and witness interviews. The case may proceed with a demand to the insurance company, settlement negotiations, and if necessary, a lawsuit that can go through discovery and trial.

Contact Our Wrongful Death Attorneys in Aurora Today

Wrongful death cases are complex and difficult to navigate alone, especially during a time of grief. Our wrongful death lawyers in Aurora understand the emotional and legal challenges families face after such a tragedy, and our attorneys and staff are committed to providing compassionate, close support throughout the process while helping you pursue the strongest possible claim.

Our firm has represented accident victims and their families in the Aurora area for over 60 years, with three generations of trial-experienced attorneys and a proven record of recovering millions for clients. When you contact our office, you’ll speak with a team familiar with the local community, including accident-prone roads and regional medical centers, and we can guide you on what to expect, how long the process may take, and what documents to prepare before filing a claim.

Please call now for a free case consultation. The experienced Aurora wrongful death lawyers at Pettit Law Firm can be reached at (417) 222-6640.

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Why Hire Pettit Law Office?

Your Recovery Is Too Important Not To
  • Committed to serving the local community in & out of court.
  • Spanish language option available for clients who need it.
  • Long track record of successful verdicts & settlements.
  • Lawyers & paralegals approach each case with compassion.
  • Direct access to the same attorney from start to finish.
  • Lawyers work closely with each client on a case-by-case basis.
  • Decades of injury law experience.
  • Southwestern Missouri Location in Aurora
  • All attorneys have trial experience & are prepared to go to trial.