Losing a loved one unexpectedly is one of the most devastating experiences a family can endure , especially when their death was caused by someone else’s negligence. Whether the loss was the result of a car accident, medical mistake, or another preventable event, the emotional and financial consequences can be overwhelming. At The Clark Law Office, our trusted Lansing injury attorneys we help grieving families in Lansing seek accountability and recover the compensation they need to move forward.
Our firm offers compassionate, one-on-one legal guidance with no call centers, no case managers, and no handoffs. If you’ve lost a spouse, parent, child, or other loved one in a fatal accident, our Michigan wrongful death lawyer will stand by your side every step of the way from investigation to resolution.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Lansing?
Under Michigan law, not just anyone can bring a wrongful death claim, only certain family members or representatives are legally allowed to file. These rules are outlined in the Michigan Wrongful Death Act and are strictly followed by courts throughout the state, including those in Lansing and Ingham County. The personal representative of the deceased person’s estate is the one who officially files the claim. However, this representative acts on behalf of eligible family members who may be entitled to receive compensation. Typically, this includes:
If multiple family members have potential claims, the court will ultimately determine how any settlement or verdict is divided among them. Because of these complexities, it’s important to work with an experienced Lansing wrongful death attorney who can guide your family through this process with care and clarity.
What Compensation Can You Recover in a Lansing Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death lawsuit is not just about justice, it’s also about securing the financial support your family needs to rebuild after an unimaginable loss. In Michigan, surviving family members may be entitled to a wide range of damages depending on the circumstances of the death, their relationship to the deceased, and who paid for expenses related to the loss. The compensation available in a Lansing wrongful death claim generally falls into two categories: economic damages and non-economic damages. Below is a breakdown of the most common types of compensation available to families pursuing a wrongful death case:
At The Clark Law Office, we work closely with economic experts and grief counselors when needed to ensure your claim reflects the full impact of your loved one’s death , not just the financial loss, but the emotional and personal devastation it has caused.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Lansing?
Fatal accidents can happen anywhere, on the road, in the hospital, at work, or even in the safety of your own home. When a death occurs because someone failed to act responsibly, the surviving family may have grounds for a wrongful death lawsuit. In Lansing, some of the most common causes include:
Each case is unique, and determining the exact cause of death requires a detailed investigation. Our team works with experts, reviews records, and interviews witnesses to uncover the truth and hold the right party accountable.
How Long Do You Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Lansing?
In Michigan, wrongful death claims are subject to strict filing deadlines known as the statute of limitations. If you miss this deadline, you could lose your right to recover compensation entirely, no matter how strong your case may be. For most wrongful death claims, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of death, but there are important exceptions based on the type of case and who is being sued. Below is a helpful overview of filing deadlines in different scenarios:
Because these rules can be complex and exceptions are often misunderstood, it’s critical to speak with a wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible. At The Clark Law Office, we’ll help you understand your rights and make sure your case is filed on time.
How the Wrongful Death Legal Process Works in Lansing
Filing a wrongful death lawsuit can feel overwhelming, especially while you’re grieving. At The Clark Law Office, we guide families through each step of the legal process so you’re never left wondering what comes next. While every case is different, most wrongful death claims in Lansing follow a similar path from start to resolution. Here’s a breakdown of how the process typically works:
Most cases settle before trial, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. This preparation helps maximize your compensation and puts pressure on the insurance company to offer a fair resolution.
Why Work With a Lansing Wrongful Death Lawyer at The Clark Law Office?
Losing someone you love is personal and your legal representation should be too. At The Clark Law Office, we don’t operate like the big, statewide firms that pass clients around or treat cases like numbers. When you work with us, you work directly with an experienced attorney who genuinely cares about your outcome.
Matthew R. Clark handles every wrongful death case himself. That means no call centers, no associates, and no frustrating layers of communication. Just one-on-one legal guidance from a lawyer who understands the local court system, knows the Lansing community, and will fight for justice on your behalf. Here’s what sets us apart:
When you choose The Clark Law Office, you’re not just hiring a lawyer, you’re choosing a team that treats your family’s loss with the respect and commitment it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lansing Wrongful Death Cases