Wrongful Death

A wrongful death occurs when a person dies as a result of another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional actions. In Minnesota, wrongful death claims may arise from car accidents, truck accidents, workplace accidents, defective products, medical malpractice, or dangerous property conditions. For example, if a driver in Minneapolis causes a fatal crash while texting, or if a defective medical device leads to fatal complications, surviving family members may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. Minnesota law allows the next of kin—such as spouses, children, parents, or siblings—to recover damages for financial losses, funeral expenses, and the loss of companionship. Wrongful death lawsuits also hold negligent parties accountable, helping prevent similar tragedies in the future. At Goss Law, we handle wrongful death cases with compassion and honesty, guiding families through the legal process during one of the most difficult times of their lives. Working with a Minneapolis wrongful death attorney ensures that families understand their rights, preserve evidence, and pursue fair compensation for the emotional and financial consequences of losing a loved one due to negligence.

In Minnesota, wrongful death claims must be brought by a court-appointed trustee on behalf of the surviving family members. Typically, the trustee is a close relative, such as a spouse, parent, or adult child, though Minnesota law allows siblings or other next of kin to serve if necessary. The trustee acts as a representative of the family and is responsible for pursuing the claim in court. Any compensation awarded is distributed among the surviving family members as determined by the court, based on their relationship to the deceased and the losses they have suffered. These losses can include financial support, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering. Because the appointment of a trustee is a required step, wrongful death cases are more complex than other personal injury claims. At Goss Law, we help families in the Twin Cities petition the court for trustee appointment, build strong cases for compensation, and ensure fair distribution among survivors. Hiring a Minneapolis wrongful death lawyer provides essential guidance during a process that is both legally challenging and emotionally overwhelming.

Damages in a wrongful death case compensate surviving family members for both financial and emotional losses caused by the death of a loved one. In Minnesota, recoverable damages include medical expenses related to the final injury, funeral and burial costs, loss of the deceased’s income and benefits, and the value of services the deceased provided to the family. Families may also recover compensation for the loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support, which is often the most significant impact of the death. In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the at-fault party’s conduct was especially reckless or intentional. The amount of compensation depends on the circumstances of the case, including the age, health, and earning capacity of the deceased. At Goss Law, we work with economists, medical professionals, and experts to calculate the true financial and emotional impact of a wrongful death. For families in the Twin Cities, hiring a Minneapolis wrongful death attorney ensures that damages are fully documented and presented in a way that reflects both the tangible and intangible losses caused by the tragedy.

Minnesota law sets a strict deadline, known as the statute of limitations, for filing wrongful death claims. Generally, families have three years from the date of death to file, but there are exceptions depending on the cause of death and circumstances. For example, wrongful death cases involving medical malpractice may have different time limits, and if the claim involves a government entity, special notice requirements apply. Failing to file within the deadline usually means losing the right to seek compensation, regardless of the strength of the case. Because evidence can fade and witnesses’ memories diminish, it is important to begin the process as soon as possible. At Goss Law, we help families in Minneapolis file timely wrongful death claims, ensuring that deadlines are met and all legal procedures are followed. We also assist with the trustee appointment process, which must occur before a lawsuit can be filed. Consulting a Minneapolis wrongful death lawyer quickly after a loss ensures that your case is preserved and that negligent parties are held accountable while the evidence is still strong.

Yes, wrongful death claims are some of the most complex and emotionally challenging cases in Minnesota. They require navigating court procedures, appointing a trustee, investigating the cause of death, and proving negligence against potentially powerful opponents like insurance companies, corporations, or hospitals. Families grieving a loved one should not have to manage these legal burdens alone. At Goss Law, we provide compassionate yet practical representation for families in the Twin Cities. We handle every aspect of the case—from filing the trustee petition and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers and pursuing litigation if needed. Our focus is on protecting families’ rights while allowing them to focus on healing. While no amount of compensation can replace a loved one, a wrongful death claim can provide financial stability and hold negligent parties accountable. Working with a Minneapolis wrongful death attorney ensures that your family’s interests are represented with honesty, diligence, and care. Our approach is straightforward: guide families through the process, fight for full compensation, and deliver peace of mind during an incredibly difficult time.