Chicago • Wrongful Death

Wrongful Death Lawyers in Chicago

If a loved one passed because of someone’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation under the Illinois Wrongful Death Act and Survival Act. Our Illinois-licensed attorneys guide families through investigation, probate/estate issues, and negotiations or trial. Whether you searched for chicago wrongful death lawyer or wrongful death lawyer chicago, we offer a free and compassionate case review—no fee unless we recover.

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Why Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer in Chicago?

Insurers and corporations move quickly after a fatal event. A focused wrongful death lawyer Chicago preserves evidence, identifies all liable parties, opens the estate, and pursues full damages for the spouse and next of kin. We coordinate investigation, experts, probate filings, and litigation while your family focuses on healing.

  • Collect police reports, black-box/app data, medical records, autopsy and toxicology.
  • Secure scene photos/videos, vehicle or product inspections, and witness statements.
  • Work with economists and medical experts to establish losses and causation.
  • File and prosecute claims under the Wrongful Death Act and Survival Act.
Free, confidential consultation
No fee unless we recover.
Call 312-555-0199

Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Case in Illinois?

A personal representative (often a spouse or close family member) brings the action for the benefit of the surviving spouse and next of kin. The court distributes damages according to the evidence of loss and Illinois law. We assist with opening the estate and obtaining the necessary court authority to proceed.

What Damages Are Available?

Wrongful Death Act – loss of support, services, companionship, society, and guidance.
Survival Act – the decedent’s own pain, suffering, and medical expenses before death.
Funeral/Burial Costs – reasonable expenses related to services and burial/cremation.
Economic Losses – lost earnings and benefits, proven through experts.
Punitive Damages – available in limited circumstances to punish egregious misconduct.
Case-Specific Relief – tailored remedies depending on facts (e.g., dram shop liability).

Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Chicago

Car, truck, and motorcycle crashes
Pedestrian & bicycle incidents
Medical malpractice
Nursing home negligence & abuse
Construction & workplace accidents
Dangerous property or products

Evidence That Makes the Difference

Illinois follows comparative negligence; establishing clear fault is crucial. Early preservation is key:

  • Crash reports, commercial logbooks, black-box/ECM & telematics, 911 and body-cam audio/video.
  • Facility incident reports, surveillance, maintenance logs, staffing schedules, and training records.
  • Product design files, testing, recalls, and compliance materials.
  • Medical records, expert opinions on causation, autopsy, and economic loss analyses.

Deadlines (Statutes of Limitation)

Many Illinois wrongful death claims have a two-year filing deadline from the date of death. Cases involving medical malpractice, government entities, or unique discovery issues may have different timelines or notice requirements. Contact a chicago wrongful death lawyer promptly so evidence is preserved and all deadlines are met.

General information only—not legal advice. Deadlines are fact-specific.

How Are Wrongful Death Claims Valued?

Insurers consider liability strength, economic loss projections, the decedent’s role in the household, and the impact on the family. We present powerful evidence through lay witnesses and experts (medical, accident reconstruction, vocational, and economic) to pursue a full and fair recovery.

Chicago Wrongful Death FAQ

? Do we have to open an estate?
Yes, a personal representative typically files the case. We handle the probate steps needed to proceed.
? Who receives the money?
Damages are for the spouse and next of kin. A court may allocate distribution based on evidence of loss.
? How long does a case take?
Timing depends on investigation, experts, court schedules, and whether settlement is fair. We move quickly and keep families updated.
? Is there any cost upfront?
No. We advance case costs and charge a fee only if we win or settle.

Disclaimer

Chicago Injury Help is an information and lawyer-connection service. We connect you with Illinois-licensed attorneys for a free consultation. Past results don’t guarantee future outcomes.