One of the most common questions families ask after filing a wrongful death lawsuit is how long the case will take. Unfortunately, there is no single answer. Some cases resolve in less than a year while others stretch out for several years, especially if a trial or appeal is involved.
This page explains the typical timeline of a wrongful death lawsuit in Michigan and the factors that can make a case move faster or slower. Unlike the statute of limitations, which sets the deadline for filing, this guide focuses on what happens after a lawsuit begins and how long each stage of the process usually lasts.
Average Timelines for Wrongful Death Lawsuits
Every wrongful death case follows the same basic process, but the amount of time each stage takes can vary significantly. Some cases end quickly through settlement while others continue for years because of court schedules, appeals, or disputes over liability.
📊 Table 1: Typical Wrongful Death Lawsuit Timelines
This table gives families a sense of what to expect. While some lawsuits can resolve faster, many take longer because both sides want to gather complete evidence before discussing settlement or presenting the case to a jury.
Factors That Influence How Long a Case Lasts
No two wrongful death lawsuits move at the same pace. Some families reach a resolution quickly, while others face long delays because of issues outside their control. Several factors often determine the overall timeline:
Families should understand that even when everyone works efficiently, wrongful death cases can take years. Preparing for that reality helps avoid frustration later in the process.
In fact, many families only fully appreciate the length of the process once they see what happens in a wrongful death lawsuit, which outlines each stage in more detail.
Settlement vs. Trial: Timing Differences
Settlements usually resolve much faster than trials. When liability is clear and damages are well supported, insurance companies may prefer to settle rather than risk a jury verdict. Trials, on the other hand, involve jury selection, weeks of testimony, and the possibility of appeals, all of which add significant time.
⚖️ Real World Example: A Lansing wrongful death case from a car accident reached a mediated settlement in just 10 months after the defendant’s insurer reviewed police reports and eyewitness testimony. By contrast, another case involving disputed liability went all the way to trial, stretched over nearly three years, and included an appeal before the family saw compensation.
Discovery and Pre-Trial Delays
Discovery is one of the longest stages in a wrongful death lawsuit. Both sides exchange documents, submit written questions, and take depositions from witnesses and experts. Because of the amount of information involved, this phase often takes a year or more. Common causes of delay include:
These delays can frustrate families, but they are often necessary to build the strongest possible case. A well prepared discovery record gives leverage in settlement negotiations and creates a foundation for trial if settlement is not possible.
Appeals and Post-Trial Issues
Even after a verdict is reached, the case may not be over. The losing side has the right to file post-trial motions or appeal the decision to a higher court. Appeals do not re-examine the facts of the case but instead focus on whether legal errors occurred during trial.
📖 Real World Example: In a Michigan wrongful death case that resulted in a multimillion dollar verdict, the defendant appealed on the grounds that certain evidence should have been excluded. The Court of Appeals reviewed the case and upheld the verdict, extending the process by nearly two additional years before the family received their compensation.
This makes it important for families to understand related issues like probate court and distribution of proceeds, since delays in settlement or trial outcomes can overlap with how funds are divided.
Preparing for the Road Ahead in a Wrongful Death Case
Wrongful death lawsuits require patience. Some families receive settlements in under a year, while others face multiple years of discovery, trial, and even appeal before a final resolution. The pace depends on factors such as liability disputes, court schedules, and the willingness of insurers to negotiate fairly.
Families should prepare emotionally and financially for the possibility of a lengthy process. While the wait can be difficult, the time spent building a strong case often leads to better results. If you want a deeper breakdown of what affects the timeline of these cases, you can learn more here.
💡 Clark Insight: In our experience, rushing to accept the first settlement offer often leaves money on the table. Cases that are allowed to develop fully with proper investigation and expert testimony usually result in significantly higher compensation. Patience can truly pay off in wrongful death cases.
Frequently Asked Questions About How Long a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Will Take
