What is the statute of limitations for wrongful death in Iowa? Generally, you have two years to resolve a claim after the death of your beloved family member with help from a wrongful death attorney.
However, exceptions to the law exist for the statute of limitations, which may impact how much time your family has to resolve a claim. Fortunately, a lawyer can look over the specific deadlines to keep your family informed about all your legal options.
Learn more with members of our legal team at Berry Law. You can call or fill out our contact form to get started.
What Law Covers Iowa’s Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations?
You can find detailed information about the wrongful death statute of limitations in Iowa Code § 614.1. You can obtain information about how the statute applies to your claim with a wrongful death lawyer.
How Long Is the Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death in Iowa?
In most cases, Iowa gives families two years to proceed with wrongful death claims. It’s important to know exactly how much time you have to avoid legal complications for missing the deadline. That’s why you should contact our legal team right away.
What Happens Once the Statute of Limitations Expires in Iowa?
Your family can face serious legal consequences if you miss the statute of limitations for wrongful death in Iowa. Generally, the court will dismiss a case with an expired statute of limitations.
Therefore, waiting too long to proceed with your claim can prevent your family from receiving compensation to cover funeral and burial expenses. A wrongful death claim may also compensate your family to cover a loved one’s:
- Hospital and medical expenses
- Lost earnings or wages
- Lost love and support
We understand that money cannot bring back a loved one after a fatal accident. However, it can reduce the financial burden on your family and hold the at-fault party responsible for their actions. Therefore, we’re standing by to help with your claim now.
Berry Law’s Team Provides You With Multiple Attorney Perspectives
Who Has to File a Wrongful Death Claim in Iowa?
Iowa requires a personal representative to begin a wrongful death claim on their behalf. However, it may take time to identify the personal representative, especially if the court has to select an individual to fill this role.
Finding a personal representative may cut into the time available to file a wrongful death claim, so we recommend contacting a lawyer for assistance immediately.
Does the Statute of Limitations Extend in Cases Involving Criminal Charges?
The statute of limitations for wrongful death in Iowa deals with civil cases. However, depending on the facts surrounding the loss of a loved one, the prosecutor may also press criminal charges against the at-fault party.
Criminal cases can take a significant amount of time to resolve. The civil court system does not extend the statute of limitations during the pendency of a criminal case. However, you may file a civil wrongful death claim during the criminal proceedings.
Furthermore, Iowa does not extend the statute of limitations during insurance negotiations or because you lacked information about the deadlines. Learn more by contacting a wrongful death lawyer in Iowa today.
How Long Do You Have to Wait to Begin a Wrongful Death Claim?
The Iowa statute of limitations for wrongful death claims determines how long you have to file a claim after losing a loved one. However, Iowa does not limit how long you have to wait before you can start your claim.
In fact, you can contact a lawyer immediately after a deadly accident to secure legal assistance.
Reaching out to an attorney immediately gives the law firm the opportunity to immediately investigate the accident. In addition, your lawyer can speak to witnesses before they forget what happened and collect evidence before it disappears.
How Long do Wrongful Death Claims Take in Iowa?
The time to complete a wrongful death claim in Iowa can vary. For example, it may take several months to settle a claim with an insurance company or even years to take a case through the civil court system with a lawsuit.
A wrongful death lawyer in Iowa can stand with you throughout the entirety of your case, starting today.
Speak to Us About the Iowa Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations
Our team at Berry Law can help you review the statute of limitations for wrongful death in Iowa. We’ll go over the specific deadlines for your case and review your family’s options following a deadly accident.
Call or fill out our online contact form to learn more.
