Practice Areas
The best personal injury lawyers in KC!
Their whole team has the best Communication and is always there when you need them. They make sure you are stress free from dealing with your wreck and take care of you. I Highly highly highly recommend! Very personal and well maintained.
Choose Stigall Whitworth in confidence!
James, Luke, and their team mean business. They have big hearts and will fight for you and your family. They are passionate about helping their clients and being there for them through the end! You want these guys on your side. It's not common to find attorneys who you feel truly care while also knowing they will fight for you and your family.
Stigall and Whitworth were amazing to work with.
They worked hard to make sure I was taken care of after my accident. They provided expertise through the whole process and did a great job explaining my options and ultimately got me a settlement above and beyond what I expected!
Jarrett is professional and knowledgeable
SWL Injury Lawyers brought focused, careful attention to the case and inspired the necessary peace of mind and confidence throughout the proceedings. Jarrett is professional and knowledgeable and balances the empathy clients need with the aggression and assertion they deserve. In a world of ambulance chasers, SWL Injury Lawyers shows that they truly care about the emotional well-being of their clients just as much as they do securing rightful financial compensation.
Incredible experience with SWL Injury Lawyers!
I've had an incredible experience with SWL Injury Lawyers! Their dedication and support through my situation have been outstanding. They're not just top-notch professional; they're compassionate and understanding allies who truly care about their clients. I couldn't be more grateful for their help and would recommend SWL Injury Lawyers to anyone!
Everyone in the office has been so helpful!
I was in a car wreck with my husband and my son, the other driver did not have any insurance. They have been over backwards helping me work with my insurance company to get what I deserved. Very professional, knowledgeable, and kind.
Highly recommend their service
I recently received service and wanted to leave a quick review. I was assisted by Desiree and her attention to detail and professionalism was exceptional. She was very helpful and went above and beyond to ensure my needs were met. I highly recommend their service.
Felt like I was in such good hands
Went to this firm with a very personal and difficult situation. I dealt with the paralegal Melissa and felt like I was in such good hands. The firm went above and beyond with my case to get me more than I imagined. I absolutely recommend them to everyone I know with their legal issues.
I cannot speak highly enough
I cannot speak highly enough about the outstanding service and legal expertise provided by SWL Injury Lawyers. Thank you for the professionalism and hospitality.
I was very impressed with professionalism
I was very impressed with professionalism exemplified by everyone at SWL Injury Lawyers. Their attention to detail is unmatched and you can tell they truly care about the clients they serve. All of my questions were answered in a timely manner and my doubts put to rest. They really fought for me and I am so grateful for that. 10/10 recommend
Jarrett was recommended
Jarrett was recommended to me after my car accident. From day one he was extremely dedicated to handling my case and taking care of everything behind the scenes for me. I didn’t have to worry about anything at all which was a major relief; he took care of everything. Any time I had a question or needed something he was available and quickly solved whatever the problem was. Jarrett is very compassionate, kind, and knowledgeable in his field. I would recommend him to anyone and will be using him again if I am ever in a similar situation.
Highly recommend their services!
Highly recommend their services! Desiree was kind and extremely helpful in guiding me through during stressful situation.
I would recommend SWL Injury Lawyers to my family and friends
I actually live in a different state that is 900 miles from SWL Injury Lawyers, but I chose them to handle my case because of their great reputation. They did not disappoint. Jarrett always kept the communication lines open, whether it was keeping me informed or answering any of my questions. I was happy with outcome of my case and would recommend SWL Injury Lawyers to my family and friends.
I will forever be grateful
I can’t say enough good things about Jarret Leiker and his team at SWL Injury Lawyers. I hired Jarrett after personal attempts to handle a car accident case on my own were going nowhere. Jarrett handled the complexities of my case with a thorough and professional approach. After a year of hard work, he was able to secure a win for a full settlement. I will forever be grateful.
Jarrett Leiker was a family friend long
Jarrett Leiker was a family friend long before graduated from law school. To say that I looked forward to having someone with Jarrett's discipline and knowledge to represent me when in need is an understatement. I will trust him to handle all of my family and business legal matters in the future.
Jarrett's representation is strong and professional
Jarrett's representation is strong and professional. He communicates every step of the way and is very detail-oriented. His focus and diligence guarantees the best possible outcome for his clients!
Jarrett Leiker is a champion in the legal field
Jarrett Leiker is a champion in the legal field. He is responsive, efficient, kind and very understanding along with accomplishing a tremendous amount of success for his clients. Jarrett is everything you hope for in a client experience when needing legal assistance.
I would highly recommend them
This was my first time in a situation where I needed a lawyer, and I was nervous about it at first, but I’m glad that I chose SWL Injury Lawyers to handle my case, they were transparent with me and helpful during the entire process. I would highly recommend them.
Highly recommend SWL Injury Lawyers
Highly recommend SWL Injury Lawyers. They are aggressive, diligent and compassionate. Thank you for taking my mother’s case.
Highly recommended!
I worked with SWL Injury Lawyers and was not only pleased with the outcome but their professionalism and attention to details. Highly recommended!
Case Results
$ 7,930,000
Truck Accident
$ 4,000,000
Truck Accident
$ 4,000,000
Judgment
$ 3,250,000
Negligent Security
$ 2,000,000
Auto Accident
$ 2,000,000
Premises Liability Injury
$ 1,800,000
Motorcycle Accident
$ 1,500,000
Pedestrian Accident
$ 1,500,000
Auto Accident
$ 1,200,000
Auto Accident
$ 1,125,000
Truck Accident
$ 1,100,000
Tractor Trailer Accident
$ 1,000,000
Truck Accident
$ 1,000,000
Car Accident
$ 1,000,000
Commercial Vehicle Accident
$ 1,000,000
Product Defect
$ 800,000
Trucking Accident
$ 775,000
Premises Liability Injury
$ 650,000
Auto Accident
$ 600,000
Medical Malpractice
$ 475,000
Auto Accident
$ 412,500
Auto Accident
$ 300,000
Auto Accident
Kansas City Wrongful Death Lawyer – Justice for Your Loved One Starts Here!
Losing someone you love is devastating. But losing them because of another’s avoidable mistake? That pain cuts deeper. If you’re here, you might be wondering what steps you can take, if any. That’s where we come in. At SWL Personal Injury Lawyers, our compassionate team of Kansas City wrongful death lawyers is ready to help you seek justice.
You don’t need to manage this alone, and we’ll make sure you don’t have to. We are dedicated to supporting you throughout the entire legal journey, offering guidance and assistance at every turn. Our goal is to help you secure the compensation and closure you deserve.
When Tragedy Strikes – We Help You Find Justice
Handling the unexpected death of someone you care about is profoundly difficult. It turns your world upside down and leaves you struggling to understand what happened and what comes next. If this loss was the result of someone else’s irresponsibility, taking legal action could be your right.
That’s where SWL Personal Injury Lawyers can help. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through the entire legal process. Whether it’s a fatal car accident, medical negligence, or an unsafe work environment, we make sure no detail goes unnoticed.
What Qualifies As A Wrongful Death?
If a person passes away because of another’s irresponsible, intentional, or careless actions, it qualifies as a wrongful death. This is not just a personal tragedy — it is a legal issue that can and should be addressed with the help of professionals.
Some examples include:
- A drunk driver caused a fatal crash
- A doctor’s failure to diagnose a critical medical condition can lead to a wrongful death.
- A defective product released by a manufacturer that leads to death can be the basis of a wrongful death claim.
- An employer neglecting safety rules, leading to fatal accidents
These situations demand legal action, not just for justice, but to prevent future harm to others.
Who Can File A Wrongful Death Claim?
In Missouri, certain family members are legally allowed to file a wrongful death case in Kansas City. This usually includes:
- Spouses
- Children (biological or adopted)
- Parents
- Siblings (if there is no spouse, child, or parent)
- Legal representatives can file a wrongful death claim if no immediate family exists
Our attorneys will help determine if you’re eligible and guide you through the filing process step by step.
What Damages Can You Recover?
Wrongful death lawsuits can result in compensation for a wide range of losses. This includes:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Lost future income
- Medical bills related to the incident
- You might be able to get money for the pain and suffering the person went through before they died.
- Loss of companionship and support
Each case is different. A wrongful death settlement is influenced by the details and quality of the supporting evidence.
What You Need to Understand About Wrongful Death Laws in Kansas City
Understanding your rights in a wrongful death case is critical, especially when legal language can seem overwhelming. That’s why our Kansas City wrongful death lawyer breaks it down in simple, straightforward terms.
Kansas City Statutes On Wrongful Death
In Kansas City, RSMo Section 537.080 governs wrongful death lawsuits, detailing who may file, the types of recoverable damages, and the statute of limitations. Under this law:
- The time limit for filing a wrongful death claim is usually three years, beginning on the date of death.
- Legal statutes grant the spouse, children, or parents the preferential right to commence a wrongful death action.
- If the spouse, children, or parents are unavailable, the court can appoint a personal representative to file on their behalf.
Missing the filing window can mean losing your right to pursue justice — that’s why time matters.
Kansas City State Wrongful Death Statistics
According to the Kansas City State Department of Health & Senior Services:
- Over 1,200 deaths were reported from unintentional injuries in a single year.
- Motor vehicle accidents accounted for nearly 30% of these fatalities.
- Workplace-related deaths are also rising due to construction and industrial risks.
These numbers show how real and common these tragedies are — and why legal support is essential.
Not every lawyer is equipped to handle wrongful death cases. You need someone who understands Missouri law and Kansas City courts specifically. Our wrongful death attorney in Kansas City knows how to navigate local legal systems efficiently, build a compelling case, and work toward the best possible outcome for you.
Major Contributors to Wrongful Death Claims in Kansas City
Here are some of the most common and tragic reasons families come to us for legal support.
1. Distracted Driving
Texting, eating, and talking on the phone are major causes of deadly car accidents. Our accident lawyers hold reckless drivers accountable.
2. Drunk Or Impaired Driving
DUIs remain one of the top contributors to wrongful deaths. Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination, often resulting in preventable tragedies.
3. Medical Negligence
Mistakes in hospitals, misread lab results, and delayed treatment are often fatal. Families deserve answers and action when doctors fail in their duty.
4. Unsafe Work Environments
Inadequate training, faulty machinery, and a lack of safety gear can all result in workplace deaths. We help hold employers accountable for cutting corners.
5. Dangerous Premises
Slip and fall accidents, inadequate security, or exposed wiring can make a property deadly. Our wrongful death lawyers in Kansas City investigate such claims thoroughly.
6. Defective Products
When cars, electronics, or pharmaceuticals are unsafe, manufacturers must be held responsible. These cases are complex, but we have the resources to take them on.
7. Pedestrian And Bicycle Accidents
The Kansas City metropolitan area has seen a steady increase in population. More people naturally lead to more vehicles on the roads. Sadly, many drivers fail to respect pedestrians and cyclists, leading to tragic results.
What Our Lawyers Bring to Your Legal Journey
At SWL Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming it can be to lose a loved one unexpectedly. Our compassionate yet strategic legal team is committed to providing full legal support to families dealing with a wrongful death case in Kansas City. Here’s how we step in to help:
1. Free Legal Consultation and Case Review
You’ll receive a confidential consultation with a Kansas City wrongful death lawyer to determine the merits of your claim. We’ll walk you through your rights and explain the best course of legal action.
2. Collect and Preserve Critical Evidence
Our team investigates thoroughly, collecting police reports, medical records, surveillance footage, and witness statements to build a strong foundation for your case.
3. Handle All Communications
We take over communication with the at-fault party, insurance companies, and other involved parties to protect your rights and relieve you from added stress.
4. Connect You With Local Professionals
We work with medical specialists, accident reconstructionists, and economists to strengthen your case and accurately calculate wrongful death compensation.
5. File the Lawsuit and Meet Deadlines
Kansas has strict timelines, and we make sure your wrongful death lawsuits are filed within the statute of limitations.
6. Pursue Maximum Compensation
Whether we negotiate a settlement or go to trial, our Kansas City wrongful death attorneys fight for every dollar your family deserves—including funeral costs, lost future income, and emotional suffering.
7. Represent You In Court
If settlement negotiations fall short, our team won’t hesitate to take your case to court. You’ll be represented by the best wrongful death lawyer in Kansas City, with years of successful trial experience.
Categories of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle
Wrongful death can occur in a wide variety of scenarios, and no two cases are exactly alike. At SWL Personal Injury Lawyers, our legal team is experienced in handling many types of claims, such as:
Car Accidents
If your loved one was killed in a crash caused by a drunk, distracted, or reckless driver, you may have a valid wrongful death claim. We know how to investigate crash reports, gather witness statements, and fight for maximum compensation.
Medical Malpractice
Hospitals and healthcare providers can be held accountable when their mistakes lead to death. This might involve a misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, surgical error, or failure to monitor a patient properly.
Workplace Accidents
Whether your loved one worked on a construction site or in a warehouse, fatal workplace incidents are tragically common. Employers who neglect safety standards can be liable, especially if the victim wasn’t properly trained or equipped.
Defective Products
Manufacturers have to ensure that their products are free from defects and safe for consumers. If your loved one passed away due to a dangerous drug, faulty car part, or unsafe appliance, we’ll help you pursue the wrongful death compensation you deserve.
Premises Liability
The legal responsibility of property owners to ensure the safety of their premises means they can be held liable for wrongful death lawsuits involving falls, drownings, or structural collapses caused by unsafe conditions.
Coping with the Emotional and Financial Repercussions of a Loved One’s Loss
A wrongful death devastates families financially, emotionally, and socially. Your Kansas City accident lawyers can help quantify the many types of losses you’ve experienced, such as:
- Medical expenses before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of future income and support
- Emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship
These are known as wrongful death damages, and you deserve full recovery.
Steps to Creating a Strong Wrongful Death Claim
Every case is different, but a strong wrongful death claim typically requires:
- When negligence is clear, for instance, in a car accident, a medical mistake, or involving a defective product
- Proof that the defendant’s actions caused your loved one’s death
- Proof of the damages your family suffered
An experienced wrongful death lawyer in Kansas City will build a case that proves liability, evaluates loss, and supports your right to compensation.
How to Demonstrate Negligence in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Negligence must be proven to win your case. A Kansas City wrongful death lawyer near me will examine:
- Duty of care (Did the party have a responsibility to act safely?)
- Breach of that duty (Did they act carelessly?)
- Causation (Did their actions directly cause the death?)
- Damages (What did your family lose as a result?)
Our team gathers evidence, consults with specialists and crafts a strong narrative to prove your case.
Why SWL Personal Injury Lawyers is the Right Team for Your Case
When it comes to choosing the right legal support, trust and performance matter. Here’s why families across Missouri trust our team of wrongful death attorneys from Kansas City.
- Local Experience: We’ve handled hundreds of wrongful death claims in Kansas City and know exactly how local courts, insurers, and juries operate.
- Empathetic Representation: Our lawyers provide not just legal assistance, but emotional support and understanding during your darkest times.
- Results That Matter: We’ve recovered millions for families through wrongful death settlement negotiations and verdicts.
- Zero Fees Unless You Win: You only pay if we recover compensation for you.
- 24/7 Availability: Our phone lines and email are open around the clock.
How To Book A Free Consultation With Our Kansas City Wrongful Death Lawyers
Scheduling a free consultation with our wrongful death lawyers is quick and easy. You can reach us anytime by calling (844) 795-9467 or by filling out our simple online form. Once we receive your details, our team will promptly get in touch to arrange a meeting at a time that suits you, whether it’s in person, by phone, or virtually. During the consultation, our experienced attorneys will take the time to understand your situation, answer your questions, and clearly outline your legal options. There’s no obligation to proceed, and if you choose to, we’ll guide you through every step with no upfront fees.
FAQs – Kansas City Wrongful Death Lawyer!
Can A Wrongful Death Case Be Reopened After Settlement?
Once a wrongful death case is settled and both parties agree in writing, it typically cannot be reopened. Exceptions may exist if fraud, misconduct, or major legal errors occurred during the settlement process. Always consult your lawyer.
What If The Deceased Had No Income—Can We Still Claim?
Yes, you can still pursue compensation even if the deceased had no income. Courts consider non-economic contributions such as childcare, companionship, and household support, especially in cases involving stay-at-home parents or retired individuals.
Do Wrongful Death Cases Involve Criminal Charges?
A wrongful death case is civil, not criminal. However, criminal charges, such as manslaughter or homicide, can occur separately. You may file a civil lawsuit regardless of whether criminal charges are filed or the defendant is convicted.
Can Multiple Family Members Join The Same Lawsuit?
Yes. The law allows for multiple eligible family members to join the same wrongful death lawsuit. However, Missouri courts often require the lawsuit to be filed by a representative on behalf of all beneficiaries to simplify proceedings.
What Happens If The At-Fault Party Dies Before Trial?
If the at-fault party passes away before trial, their estate can still be held financially responsible. Your attorney can pursue the claim against the deceased’s estate, ensuring justice continues through legal means.
Speak With a Kansas City Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
Losing a loved one is devastating, and the legal process can feel overwhelming. With the competence of Kansas City wrongful death attorneys, you can focus on healing while we handle the complex legal aspects. At SWL Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the emotional toll and are here to fight for your family’s rights.
Call us now at (844) 795-9467 or request a free consultation online. Our Kansas City wrongful death lawyers are dedicated to offering empathetic guidance while relentlessly pursuing the justice and compensation your family is entitled to. Let us stand by you during this challenging time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Qualifies as a Wrongful Death in Missouri?
Wrongful death in Missouri occurs when someone’s life is cut short due to the negligence or misconduct of another individual or entity. It involves an act of negligence where a duty of care has been breached.
Who is Eligible to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
In Missouri, the law specifies a hierarchy of individuals who are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the deceased. This includes surviving spouses, children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, and distant relatives in specific circumstances.
How Long Do I File a Wrongful Death Claim in Kansas City?
The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim in Kansas City is three years from the date of death. It is important to consult with a Kansas City wrongful death lawyer promptly to ensure your claim is filed within the required timeframe.
Can Wrongful Death Settlements Be Challenged or Appealed?
Wrongful death settlements can be challenged or appealed in certain circumstances. However, it is important to consult with a Kansas City wrongful death lawyer to evaluate the specific details of your case and determine the best course of legal action.
What Types of Damages Are Recoverable in a Wrongful Death Case?
Damages that can be recovered in a wrongful death case include economic damages such as medical expenses and loss of income, as well as noneconomic damages such as pain and suffering and loss of companionship. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded.
How Does the Legal Process Work for Wrongful Death Claims in Kansas City?
The legal process for wrongful death claims in Kansas City involves gathering evidence, identifying responsible parties, proving negligence, filing legal documents, negotiating, and, if necessary, litigation. It is important to consult with a Kansas City wrongful death lawyer for guidance and legal advice throughout the process.