Losing a loved one is devastating under any circumstances. When that death is caused by someone else’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional conduct, the grief is compounded by a profound sense of injustice. Surviving family members have the right to pursue compensation and accountability through a wrongful death lawsuit.
Wrongful death cases are among the most important and emotionally challenging areas of personal injury law. Families need compassionate, experienced attorneys who can guide them through the legal process while they grieve. This guide highlights the best wrongful death lawyers in Chicago.
What Is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the negligent, reckless, or intentional conduct of another. Common causes include:
- Motor vehicle accidents – Car, truck, motorcycle crashes
- Medical malpractice – Surgical errors, misdiagnosis, medication errors
- Workplace accidents – Construction falls, industrial accidents
- Defective products – Dangerous vehicles, devices, or consumer products
- Premises liability – Falls, fires, inadequate security
- Criminal acts – Assaults, DUI crashes, shootings
- Nursing home abuse – Elder neglect and abuse
Illinois Wrongful Death Law
The Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/) allows certain family members to sue for damages when a loved one dies due to another’s negligence.
Who Can File?
A wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate on behalf of surviving family members, including:
- Spouse
- Children (including adult children)
- Parents
- Other dependents
Statute of Limitations
Under 740 ILCS 180/2, wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the death.
What Compensation Is Available?
- Loss of financial support the deceased would have provided
- Loss of benefits (health insurance, retirement)
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and consortium
- Loss of parental guidance for children
- Grief, sorrow, and mental anguish
- Medical expenses before death
- Funeral and burial expenses
Best Wrongful Death Lawyers in Chicago
1. Phillips Law Offices
Chicago’s Premier Wrongful Death Attorneys
Phillips Law Offices is widely recognized as one of Chicago’s leading firms for wrongful death cases. With decades of experience representing grieving families, their attorneys provide compassionate, dedicated representation while aggressively pursuing justice. The firm has handled wrongful death cases arising from car accidents, medical malpractice, workplace incidents, and defective products.
Phillips Law Offices understands the profound loss families experience and fights to hold negligent parties accountable. Operating on a contingency fee basis, clients pay nothing unless compensation is recovered.
2. Clifford Law Offices
Nationally recognized for wrongful death litigation.
3. Power Rogers & Smith
Record-setting verdicts in wrongful death cases.
4. Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C.
Substantial wrongful death results.
5. Levin & Perconti
Medical malpractice wrongful death expertise.
6. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers
Compassionate wrongful death representation.
Official Resources
Seeking Justice for Your Loved One
No amount of money can replace your loved one, but wrongful death lawsuits provide financial security for surviving families and hold negligent parties accountable. Contact an experienced wrongful death lawyer today.
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