Catastrophic & Wrongful Death
A closer look at the damages available in a Minnesota wrongful death claim under Section 573.02.
Pecuniary Loss
Minnesota wrongful death damages focus on the family's 'pecuniary loss' — the financial support, services, advice, and guidance the deceased would have provided. This includes lost income and the value of household contributions.
Loss of Companionship
The law also recognizes the family's loss of the deceased's companionship, comfort, and society — real harms beyond pure economics.
Who Benefits
Recovery is distributed among the surviving spouse and next of kin according to their loss. A court-appointed trustee pursues the claim on their behalf.
Funeral and Final Expenses
Reasonable funeral and medical expenses related to the death may also be recovered. An attorney ensures all available damages are pursued.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different. For guidance on your specific situation, call 973-566-5599 for a free, confidential case review.