What Happens When a Wrongful Death Case Goes to Trial in Missouri?
Understanding Your Legal Options After a Wrongful Death in Missouri
Losing a family member due to someone else’s negligence is devastating. When that loss leads to a wrongful death lawsuit in Missouri, families face an unfamiliar legal process at the worst possible time. Understanding how Missouri wrongful death cases work from filing to trial to settlement, is the first step toward getting justice.
Under Missouri Revised Statute 537.080, a wrongful death claim can be filed by the spouse, children, or parents of the deceased. If none of these family members exist, other qualifying relatives may bring the claim. Missouri gives surviving family members three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Most wrongful death cases in Missouri resolve through settlement before trial. However, when the at-fault party’s insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, taking the case to trial becomes necessary. That is when understanding what happens inside a courtroom, including how juries decide damages and what legal remedies exist when errors occur, becomes critical to your case.
Jury Errors in Missouri Wrongful Death Trials | Misconduct vs. Honest Mistakes
Not every jury error results in a new trial. Missouri courts distinguish between two types of jury errors, and the remedy depends entirely on which type occurred.
Misconduct occurs when jurors act improperly, communicating with outside parties, conducting independent research, or being influenced by improper information. When misconduct is proven, a new trial is typically the appropriate remedy because the integrity of the original verdict has been compromised.
An honest mistake, on the other hand, occurs when jurors misunderstand instructions or make an arithmetic error in calculating damages. In these cases, Missouri courts may apply remittitur, reducing the damages award to a legally appropriate amount, rather than ordering an entirely new trial. This approach balances fairness to both parties without the time and expense of starting over.
In the case discussed here, the appellant argued that the plaintiff’s closing arguments caused the jury to miscalculate wrongful death damages. After review, the court found no misconduct had occurred. The jury’s inquiry confirmed their decision was not improperly influenced, and the verdict stood.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a Missouri Wrongful Death Case?
Missouri law allows surviving family members to recover a broad range of damages in a wrongful death case. These include the financial value of the deceased’s future earnings and contributions to the household, the value of services the deceased would have provided, medical and funeral expenses directly related to the death, and the loss of companionship, comfort, and guidance that surviving family members have suffered.
One of the most contested aspects of Missouri wrongful death cases is determining how to value the relationship between the deceased and the surviving plaintiff. Insurance companies and defense attorneys will often attempt to introduce evidence suggesting the relationship was strained or that the deceased would have contributed less financially than claimed. Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers counters these tactics by presenting comprehensive evidence of the relationship’s true value, financial, emotional, and personal.
Missouri does not cap wrongful death damages in most cases, which means the full scope of your family’s loss can be pursued in court.
Award-Winning Personal Injury Lawyer Recognized for Excellence in Missouri
At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, our results speak through the voices of our clients and now, through the honors we’ve earned in the community. Tyson Mutrux was proudly awarded Best Attorney in Columbia for 2025 by Inside Columbia Magazine, a recognition that reflects not only legal skill but also the deep trust of those we serve in Missouri.
A lawyer’s reputation speaks volumes about their ability to handle cases effectively. Whether you need legal representation for a personal injury claim, wrongful death settlement, car crash claim, slip and fall or any other legal matter, choosing an attorney with a proven track record is essential.
Reading online reviews, client testimonials, and industry recognitions can help you gauge a lawyer’s credibility. Tyson Mutrux has built a strong reputation in Missouri, earning a 10.0 Superb rating on Avvo and recognition from Expertise as one of the Best Medical Malpractice Lawyers in St. Louis (2020).
Additionally, he has been honored by The National Trial Lawyers’ “Top 40 Under 40” for his dedication to achieving the best possible outcomes for his clients. His attention to detail, strong communication skills, and history of satisfied clients are reflected in numerous positive Google reviews.
You can also connect with us directly on Google to see reviews, updates, and more:
Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers – St. Louis
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Lost a Loved One Due to Someone Else’s Negligence in Missouri or Illinois?
Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers represents wrongful death families across St. Louis, Columbia, and throughout Missouri and Illinois. We handle every aspect of your case from investigating liability to fighting for maximum compensation at trial if necessary. No fees unless we win. Call (888) 550-4026 for a free case review today.