Justice for Families Who've Lost Everything.

No settlement brings someone back. But holding the responsible party accountable — and securing your family's financial future — matters.

Grief and legal deadlines don't wait for each other.

Losing a family member to someone else's negligence is a grief that doesn't follow a timeline. But Illinois law has strict deadlines for wrongful death claims, and the window can close faster than families expect — especially when they're focused, rightly, on each other.

Lauren Rozich handles these cases with the seriousness and care they deserve. She takes on the legal work so families can focus on what matters most.

What is a wrongful death claim in Illinois?

A wrongful death claim is a civil action brought by the surviving family members when a person dies due to the negligent or wrongful act of another. It is separate from any criminal case — and criminal charges are not required for a wrongful death claim to succeed.

Common causes of wrongful death cases include:

Who can file a wrongful death claim in Illinois?

Under the Illinois Wrongful Death Act, a claim is brought by the personal representative of the deceased's estate — typically a surviving spouse, child, or other close family member. The proceeds are distributed to the surviving spouse and next of kin.

What compensation can families recover?

Wrongful death compensation in Illinois can include:

Illinois does not cap wrongful death damages, which means every case is evaluated on its own facts.

Lauren's approach to these cases.

Lauren understands that no amount of money repairs what a wrongful death takes from a family. What it can do is remove the financial pressure — the bills, the lost income, the uncertainty — so your family can grieve without that weight bearing down.

She handles these cases personally, communicates directly, and doesn't hand families off to junior staff. You'll have her cell.

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We're here when you're ready to talk.

There's no pressure and no obligation. If you've lost someone and want to understand your options, we'll listen.

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Common Questions

Wrongful Death FAQ

How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Illinois?
Illinois law generally requires wrongful death claims to be filed within two years of the date of death. In certain circumstances involving medical malpractice, different rules may apply. An attorney can confirm the exact deadline for your situation.
Can I file a wrongful death claim even if there are no criminal charges?
Yes. A wrongful death claim is a civil matter and is entirely separate from any criminal proceedings. The standard of proof in a civil case is also lower than in a criminal case, meaning a successful civil claim is possible even when criminal charges are not filed.
What is the difference between a wrongful death claim and a survival action?
A wrongful death claim compensates surviving family members for their own losses. A survival action allows the estate to recover for the pain, suffering, and damages the deceased experienced before death. Both can often be brought simultaneously.
Who receives the money from a wrongful death settlement in Illinois?
Proceeds are distributed to the surviving spouse and next of kin based on the loss each person suffered. The court oversees the distribution when there are multiple beneficiaries.
Does Illinois cap wrongful death damages?
No. Illinois does not impose a cap on wrongful death damages, though there are specific rules about what categories of compensation are available depending on the circumstances.