Compassionate wrongful death Attorneys Serving Michigan Families
When a family loses a loved one due to another person's negligence, recklessness, or intentional act, the emotional devastation is immeasurable. At Logeman & Iafrate, P.C., we provide compassionate legal representation to help grieving families pursue justice and the compensation they need to face the future.
Understanding Michigan's Wrongful Death Act
Under Michigan's Wrongful Death Act (MCL 600.2922), surviving family members can file a lawsuit when a death is caused by wrongful act, neglect, or fault—essentially any situation where the deceased could have filed a personal injury lawsuit if they had survived.
The lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative (executor) of the deceased's estate. Family members who may be entitled to damages include:
- Spouse
- Children and stepchildren
- Parents
- Grandparents
- Siblings
- Those financially dependent on the deceased
Compensation Available in Wrongful Death Cases
Michigan law allows recovery for:
- Medical, hospital, funeral, and burial expenses
- Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased between injury and death
- Loss of financial support and inheritance
- Loss of society and companionship
The three-year statute of limitations for wrongful death claims begins from the date of death. Prompt action is essential to preserve evidence and protect your family's rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to what matters most about your case and how we work.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Michigan?
Under Michigan's Wrongful Death Act (MCL 600.2922), only the personal representative (executor) of the deceased's estate can file the lawsuit. However, damages are distributed among eligible family members including the spouse, children and stepchildren, parents, grandparents, siblings, and those financially dependent on the deceased. If no estate exists, one can be opened specifically for the wrongful death claim.
What damages can be recovered in a Michigan wrongful death case?
Michigan law allows recovery for medical, hospital, funeral, and burial expenses; pain and suffering experienced by the deceased between injury and death; loss of financial support and inheritance the family would have received; and loss of society and companionship. Proposed legislation (House Bill 6086) may expand damages to include lost future earnings and loss of household services.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Michigan?
The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is three years from the date of death—not the date of the injury that caused the death. However, certain circumstances can affect this deadline. Prompt action is essential to preserve evidence and protect your family's rights. We recommend consulting an attorney as soon as possible after losing a loved one to negligence.
Are there damage caps in Michigan wrongful death cases?
Damage caps depend on the type of case. Wrongful death arising from medical malpractice is subject to Michigan's non-economic damage caps—approximately $569,000 for standard cases and $1,047,000 for cases involving death, adjusted annually. Most other wrongful death claims, such as those from auto accidents or general negligence, are not subject to these caps.
Can I pursue a wrongful death claim if my loved one died in a car accident?
Yes. When a loved one dies in an auto accident, families may pursue both no-fault survivor benefits through their own insurance and a third-party wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver. Our attorneys help families navigate both systems to maximize recovery while handling the legal process during this difficult time.
Our record speaks to those we've helped in Michigan
Numbers that speak to our commitment to our Clients and our Community
Our track record reflects years of hard work and dedication to our clients' recovery.
Combined experience
60+
Years of trial work and case victories
Cases won
1,000+
Successful outcomes for injured clients
Compensation secured
$50M+
In damages recovered for our clients
Client satisfaction
4.9
Our rating on Google Reviews
Schedule a Free Case Review with a Lawyer
Don't face this alone. Let us review your case and show you what's possible. We never charge legal fees unless we recover damages on your behalf and the initial consultation is free as well. Reach out to us today.
Adrienne D. Logeman
Partner
James A. Iafrate
Partner
What Our Clients Say About Us
Cases won, lives changed, and we are happy to have helped each one of our clients.
If I could give them 100 stars I would!
"At the lowest point in my life they were there for me and got more than I expected. Mr. Logeman was amazing and Cheryl his assistant was so caring and professional. I would recommend them to anyone with a personal injury or accident. They went above and beyond for my son and I. I will forever be in their debt!"
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Vivian S.They did wonderfully in winning our case!
"We were referred for a personal injury motorcycle accident. We had no idea even where to begin, but the caring and professional team reassured us and took off a lot of stress. They did wonderfully in winning our case, and were always great at communicating where the case was at and what was needed. I would highly recommend and if we were to ever need their services again, I wouldn't think twice about calling them up."
Ashley B.I could not have asked for better representation!
"Adrienne Logeman is an exceptional auto injury attorney. Adrienne put me at ease and explained every step of the process. She was composed, professional, polite and extremely competent. The jury returned a unanimous verdict in our favor. I could not have asked for better representation and care. I am very thankful for her. An incredible experience."
Robert A.I truly believe you could not find a better firm to work with.
"Jim Iafrate and his staff are wonderful to work with, professional, compassionate, and do everything in their power when working on your case. I was always part of the process as communication was timely. Additionally, they know the law and will not be bullied by big insurance companies."
Joannie E.Jim was always available when we needed him to answer questions!
"Jim handled our case resulting from a very bad automobile accident. Both my husband and I were injured. He is very personable and efficient. He came to our home to get the details of the accident and continued to provide excellent handling of our case to the end when he reached an excellent settlement for us. We feel we became friends during this whole process."
Joan F.I cannot recommended them highly enough!
"I'm so grateful to Logeman & lafrate for taking care of my legal needs for my case. The entire staff are exceptional, professional, communicate well during the entire process."
D JuneBy far the best lawyer I've ever had!
"I had the pleasure of Jim Iafrate representing me. He was professional, had excellent communication skills and is trustworthy. He always kept me up-to date, was responsive and worked diligently. His abilities enabled us to settled my case in a timely manor. Thanks for your hard work Jim!"
Lana D.I can not say enough about this firm they continue to advocate for me!
"I was in 2 different catastrophic car accidents. Jim Iafrate has been my attorney for many years. I can say that without a doubt he is the best attorney in this field. Jim and his staff are professional and compassionate. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a attorney that has been in a car accident. Jim will go above and beyond for his clients."
Debra Q.My wife and I strongly recommend this law firm and are grateful for all their efforts.
"The attorneys at Logeman,Iafrate and Logeman were absolutely fantastic and professional in handling our case from a severe automobile accident. They provided constant support and guidance in making sure all of our medical needs were met. The staff at this firm was so helpful in all aspects of the case and subsequent trial and settlement."
Vince G.I know that we can always trust their advice!
"I work with individuals that have suffered a brain injury because of an auto accident. This law practice has always been an amazing resource for them. They always put their clients first and I know that we can always trust their advice."
Courtney W.I would recommend James and his office to anyone!
"James and his team worked right beside our entire family during the whole process and even after. James was always available and fought hard to get my family what we deserved. He didn't back down and was uplifting through the entire process. Not only was I proud to have him as our lawyer, we were even prouder that we can now call him a friend."
Rob K.