Families suffer when a loved one dies because of someone else’s careless actions. Beyond the grief experienced, survivors should not have to worry about hospital bills, lost paychecks, funeral expenses, or the other financial impacts of the death. Damages in Chicago wrongful death cases can take some of the crushing financial pressure off families following the loss of a loved one due to negligence.
At Kaveny + Kroll Trial Lawyers, we can support you with legal guidance, courtroom grit, and genuine compassion, ensuring your claim delivers every dollar you deserve. Contact our team of experienced attorneys today for advice following the wrongful death of a loved one.
Potential Damages Following a Wrongful Death
In a wrongful death claim, families may be entitled to several categories of compensation, each addressing a different aspect of the loss. Common recoverable damages include:
Medical Expenses
Families can recover final hospital bills and other treatment costs incurred before a loved one’s death. Our Chicago wrongful death attorneys ensure each medical expense is thoroughly documented, so your claim reflects the full financial impact of the deceased’s care.
Funeral and Burial Costs
Reasonable funeral, burial, or cremation expenses are recoverable. At Kaveny + Kroll, we carefully document all costs, including services, caskets, and memorial arrangements, to help families secure compensation for the financial burden of properly honoring their loved one.
Lost Income and Financial Support
Survivors may claim wages, bonuses, and other financial contributions the deceased would have provided had they lived. Our attorneys calculate both past and projected future earnings, ensuring that your claim accurately reflects the lost economic support for a spouse, children, and other dependents.
Loss of Benefits
Health insurance, retirement savings, and pension contributions that would have supported your family are included in a wrongful death claim. Our lawyers accurately itemize these benefits to ensure you recover not only lost income but also the long-term financial stability the deceased would have provided.
Emotional Loss and Companionship
Compensation can recognize the profound loss of guidance, love, and emotional support experienced by surviving family members following a wrongful death. Our attorneys present evidence of the personal and emotional impact to ensure your claim reflects the real human consequences of losing your loved one.
Punitive Damages (If Applicable)
Illinois law allows punitive damages in cases of reckless or intentional misconduct. The team at Kaveny + Kroll can evaluate whether the defendant’s actions justify punitive damages and pursue them when possible, sending a message that egregious negligence will not go unchallenged.
How Do Kaveny + Kroll Trial Lawyers Maximize Recovery?
Wrongful death cases often involve defendants with significant resources, including Chicago hospitals, corporations, and insurers. These parties work to limit payouts. At Kaveny + Kroll, we fight tirelessly to ensure insurers and defendants provide full and fair compensation. Our experienced attorneys prepare every claim as if it will go to trial. With detailed evidence gathering, expert testimony, and trial-ready preparation, we give families the strongest leverage during negotiations.
Documentation Needed To Support Your Claim
Strong wrongful death claims rely on thorough documentation. Key records help prove the full extent of losses and support maximum recovery. Our Chicago attorneys collect and organize all the evidence necessary for a wrongful death claim, including:
- Medical records—hospital bills, treatment notes, and medication receipts before death
- Employment and income statements—pay stubs, tax returns, and benefit information
- Accident or incident reports—police reports, safety inspections, or workplace records
- Witness statements—accounts from family, friends, or others present during the incident
- Other supporting evidence—photos, videos, or correspondence related to the injury or negligence
Proper documentation ensures your claim is complete, credible, and prepared for negotiations or trial.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in the State?
Illinois law allows the personal representative of the deceased’s estate to file a wrongful death claim. Eligible family members include spouses, children, and sometimes parents. Claims must be filed within two years of death, making it essential to act promptly to preserve evidence, strengthen the case, and ensure all damages are recoverable. At Kaveny + Kroll, we partner with Chicago families to identify the proper filing party and act quickly to protect rights and maximize recovery for a wrongful death.
Call Our Legal Team in Chicago for Help With Your Wrongful Death Claim
When a loved one dies due to negligence, families should not face the legal system alone. At Kaveny + Kroll, our attorneys have extensive experience successfully pursuing damages in Chicago wrongful death cases.
Our firm is ready to fight for accountability and meaningful compensation on your family’s behalf. Call or contact us online today to discuss your wrongful death claim.
