that integrates civil claims with all benefit programs
so key deadlines are not missed
that anticipates offsets, subrogation, and lien issues
in plain language at every step
in advice and advocacy
Civil claims against negligent drivers, property owners, employers’ contractors, product manufacturers, medical providers, or other third parties. These claims can cover loss of financial support, loss of companionship, funeral costs, and estate based losses. See related pages: Wrongful Death, Fatal Car Accidents, Fatal Workplace Accidents.
When the death occurs on the job, workers’ compensation may provide specified benefits and funeral contributions without proving fault. These payments rarely reflect the full loss, so we also evaluate third party civil claims to reach full value.
Household policies can matter even if the at fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. We evaluate Uninsured Motorist and Underinsured Motorist coverage, medical payments coverage, and any funeral benefit riders
Individual and employer sponsored life policies, and Accidental Death and Dismemberment policies, can pay significant benefits. We collect policy documents, confirm beneficiary designations, and handle accidental death investigations and exclusions.
A surviving spouse, minor children, or other eligible dependents may qualify for monthly benefits if the decedent had sufficient work credits. We coordinate timing with civil recoveries and explain how these benefits interact with other programs.
For eligible families, VA Dependency and Indemnity Compensation and Survivors Pension may apply. We gather service records and medical evidence to support the applications.
When a crime contributed to the death, state programs may help with funeral costs or counseling. These programs are often time sensitive and documentation heavy. We handle filings and receipts.
Medicare, Medicaid, ERISA health plans, and hospital providers may assert repayment rights. We verify what is legally owed, challenge improper claims, and negotiate reductions.
A comp carrier may have a lien on third party recoveries, and civil settlements can affect future comp benefits. We manage sequencing and approvals to protect the family.
Many auto policies require written consent before settling with the at fault carrier. We obtain consent and preserve underinsured benefits.
In rare situations, special planning can protect eligibility for public benefits or provide long term financial stability. We coordinate with trusted financial and tax professionals when appropriate.
We identify each defendant and every available insurance policy to maximize recovery.
We set up the correct legal structure, coordinate probate appointments when required, and obtain court approvals for minor settlements.
Confirm decision makers, map a combined plan for civil claims and benefits, and set deadlines.
Requests to agencies, employers, hospitals, and insurers. Secure video and electronic logs that expire quickly.
Identify all policies and programs. Verify limits, eligibility, and forms.
Submit life, AD&D, workers’ compensation, UM or UIM, and survivor benefit claims in the right order.
Build liability and damages for wrongful death and survival actions.
Negotiate healthcare and comp liens and manage consent requirements.
Pursue settlement or litigation. Structure distributions and court approvals to protect the family.
