Wrongful Death Lawyer In Chicago

Need a Top-Rated Wrongful Death Attorney in Chicago?

Table Of Contents

Losing a loved one is among the most devastating experiences anyone can endure, especially when another’s negligence or misconduct causes that loss. In Illinois, countless families face this unthinkable reality each year. Having the right advocates on your side is critical during such a painful and disorienting time.

At Wallace Miller, our team of Chicago wrongful death lawyers is committed to standing with you every step of the way. We understand that no amount of compensation can ever bring back your loved one, but we believe justice and accountability are essential for healing and future security. Our goal is simple: to provide experienced legal representation, compassionate guidance, and relentless advocacy so that your voice is heard and your rights are protected.

Get the answers you need by calling (312) 261-6193 or filling out our complimentary case evaluation.

The scope and impact of wrongful death in Chicago

Wrongful death claims arise in countless ways, from car crashes and medical mistakes to workplace disasters and defective products. Each case tells the story of a life cut short, a family shattered, and a future altered forever.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health, Cook County alone sees hundreds of accidental deaths each year, many caused by preventable hazards and acts of negligence. Traffic fatalities in Illinois have steadily risen, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that unintentional injuries remain a leading cause of death in Chicago and across the state.

For every statistic, a family is suffering both emotionally and financially. Survivors often face overwhelming medical bills, funeral expenses, lost income, and the deep pain of losing a parent, child, or partner. In these moments, legal action can be a powerful tool to seek justice for the grieving family and help prevent similar tragedies in the future.

At Wallace Miller, Chicago wrongful death attorneys are committed to honoring each individual’s legacy by pursuing real accountability on behalf of their surviving loved ones. For help, call(312) 261-6193 or fill out a no-cost case evaluation form.

Common causes of wrongful death in Chicago

Wrongful deaths in Chicago occur under many different circumstances. Understanding the most common causes can help families recognize whether they may have a claim and how to begin gathering vital evidence.

Some of the leading causes of wrongful death in Chicago include:

Motor vehicle collisions: According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, Cook County has the state’s highest rate of fatal traffic accidents. These include car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents, often caused by reckless driving, speeding, distracted driving, or impaired motorists.
Medical malpractice: Medical errors remain a leading cause of wrongful death in the U.S. Mistakes during surgery, delayed or incorrect diagnoses, medication errors, or failure to treat critical conditions can all lead to tragic outcomes.
Workplace accidents: Chicago’s industrial and construction sectors see frequent workplace fatalities. Falls from heights, equipment failures, lack of safety precautions, and exposure to toxic substances are all too familiar. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Illinois reports dozens of fatal work-related accidents every year.
Premises liability: Property owners in Chicago must maintain safe premises. Fatal slips and falls, drownings, fires, and building code violations can all result in a premises liability wrongful death lawsuit.
Defective products: Unsafe vehicles, consumer products, pharmaceuticals, or medical devices may cause preventable deaths. In such cases, manufacturers, distributors, or retailers can be held responsible.
Intentional acts: Homicide and assault are an unfortunate reality in Chicago. When criminal acts lead to loss of life, civil action can accompany or follow criminal prosecution to secure compensation for surviving family members.

Families who believe their loved one’s death resulted from any of these causes—or another act of negligence—can contact Wallace Miller at (312) 261-6193 or submit a free case evaluation online to explore their legal options.

blurred lawyer image on background and in white text " chicago wrongful death attorneys" written

Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Illinois?

Illinois law outlines who is legally permitted to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Typically, this responsibility falls to the personal representative—a person appointed to manage the deceased’s estate. This individual files the claim on behalf of eligible surviving family members, such as a spouse, children, or parents, who may be entitled to compensation.

Eligible family members may include:

The surviving spouse or domestic partner.
Children of the deceased.
Parents (if the deceased was a minor or unmarried).
Siblings or other dependents, in some instances.

Wallace Miller’s Chicago wrongful death attorneys can assist eligible family members in determining whether they may file a claim and, if necessary, guide them through appointing an estate representative to pursue the case.

Damages recoverable in a Chicago wrongful death case

The law recognizes that families suffer a wide range of damages after a wrongful death—meaning the measurable impact of the loss, both financial and emotional. These damages generally fall into two categories: economic losses, which include the financial contributions the deceased would have provided, and non-economic losses, which reflect the emotional pain, suffering, and loss of companionship experienced by surviving loved ones. At Wallace Miller, we collaborate with financial experts, life care planners, and medical professionals to determine the full extent of these losses and pursue the compensation families deserve.

Compensation in a wrongful death case may include:

Medical expenses incurred before death.
Funeral and burial costs.
Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity.
Loss of benefits (such as health insurance or retirement).
Loss of household services provided by the deceased.

Loss of companionship, care, and guidance.
Emotional pain and suffering.
Loss of consortium for spouses or partners.
Loss of parental guidance for children.

Illinois law may allow for punitive damages in rare cases involving reckless or intentional behavior. These are not meant to compensate the victim’s family for their loss but to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Punitive damages are awarded in addition to other types of compensation when the defendant’s actions go beyond negligence and show a willful disregard for the safety of others.

Each case and each family is unique. Working with a Chicago wrongful death attorney at Wallace Miller helps ensure that each family receives the full compensation they are entitled to under Illinois law.

The legal process: what to expect

Understanding the legal process can provide some reassurance during a tough time.

Here’s how a typical wrongful death claim unfolds at Wallace Miller:

Case evaluation: We listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options in a free consultation.
Investigation: Our team investigates the facts by collecting police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions to build a strong case.
Filing the claim: The wrongful death lawsuit is filed in civil court, identifying all responsible parties.
Discovery and negotiation: During this phase, both sides exchange evidence and information about the case. Our team carefully builds your claim and negotiates with the opposing party. While many wrongful death cases settle before trial, we only recommend accepting a settlement if it fully reflects the extent of your losses.
Trial (if necessary): If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to litigate your case in court, relentlessly advocating for justice and maximum compensation.
Resolution and distribution: When your case concludes, compensation is distributed according to Illinois law and the needs of surviving family members.

Pursuing a wrongful death claim is never easy, especially in a central metropolitan area like Chicago, where insurance companies and at-fault parties quickly protect their interests. Illinois wrongful death law is complex, with strict deadlines, evidentiary requirements, and procedural steps that can easily overwhelm grieving families. Partnering with an experienced wrongful death attorney in Chicago is critical.

Our team at Wallace Miller brings decades of specialized experience, having recovered millions of dollars in compensation for families across Illinois. We understand the nuances of local statutes, court procedures, and insurance carriers’ tactics to minimize payouts. From the first consultation, we offer clear explanations, honest advice, and a strategic plan tailored to your unique circumstances. We manage every legal detail so you can focus on what matters most—healing and remembering your loved one. Speak with us at (312) 261-6193 or get a free case evaluation online.

Statute of limitations and the importance of timely action

Illinois imposes a strict two-year statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit, measured from the date of death. Failing to file within this period usually results in losing your right to seek compensation, regardless of how strong your claim may be. Certain cases, such as those involving governmental entities, may have shorter deadlines or require special notice procedures.

Time is also critical for another reason: evidence can fade or disappear. Witnesses’ memories become less reliable, documents can be lost, and accident scenes may change. To protect their rights and preserve key evidence, families should consult a wrongful death attorney at Wallace Miller as soon as possible.

Proving liability in Illinois wrongful death cases

Winning a wrongful death case in Illinois means demonstrating that another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional act directly caused your loved one’s death.

This typically requires establishing four elements:

Duty of care: The defendant owed a legal duty to the deceased (e.g., a driver must operate their vehicle safely and a doctor must provide competent medical care).
Breach of duty: The defendant failed to meet this standard through action or omission.
Causation: The defendant’s breach of duty directly led to fatal harm.
Damages: The death resulted in measurable losses for the family.

Our team consults with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, financial experts, and others to prove these elements with compelling evidence, such as photographs, expert reports, witness statements, and complex data analysis.

Navigating insurance and settlement challenges in Illinois wrongful death claims

Insurance companies often offer low settlements to grieving families, hoping to resolve cases for less than their actual value. Insurance adjusters often pressure grieving families to provide statements, sign releases, or accept early settlement offers that do not reflect the claim’s true value. These offers frequently underestimate the long-term financial impact and emotional loss.

The wrongful death attorneys at Wallace Miller handle all communications with insurers and fight for full compensation on behalf of the family. If settlement negotiations fail, the legal team is prepared to go to trial—no matter the size or resources of the opposing party.

How Wallace Miller supports your family

Beyond legal skill, families need their attorneys’ support, transparency, and compassion. Our team is here to shoulder the burden of the legal process, provide regular updates, and answer every question you have. We understand the emotional toll these cases take.

That’s why we:

Offer free, no-obligation case evaluations so you can make informed choices with no risk.
Work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we win compensation for your family.
Coordinate with grief counselors, financial planners, and support services as needed.
Advocate for public safety improvements when cases highlight systemic hazards in Chicago.

Every family’s situation is unique. Whether you’re struggling with medical bills, worried about your financial future, or need someone to fight on your behalf, Wallace Miller is ready to help.

Our Personal Injury Lawyers Also Focus on the Following Areas:

Wallace Miller: your advocate for justice and healing

Choosing Wallace Miller means selecting a law firm with a legacy of results, a reputation for compassion, and an unwavering commitment to Chicago families. We are proud to stand as fierce advocates for justice, ensuring negligent parties are held accountable and your family’s voice is heard. Our clients are more than cases—they are individuals and families deserving of respect, dignity, and closure.

If you are navigating the tragedy of wrongful death in Chicago, do not hesitate to seek the support and guidance you deserve. Call (312) 261-6193 or complete our free case evaluation form now.

Experienced Wrongful Death Lawyers in Chicago, Illinois