Lost a loved one and left financially dependant or emotionally bereaved?

It's a legal claim for compensation made by those who were financially or emotionally dependent on someone who died as a result of another party's negligence or wrongful act.

Eligible individuals may include spouses, civil partners, long-term cohabiting partners, children, parents, siblings, and sometimes other close relatives who were financially or emotionally reliant on the deceased.

The financial support and services the person provided, such as childcare or household help, and funeral costs. Bereavement damages are a separate fixed sum for a spouse or civil partner, or the parents of an unmarried child under 18.

Yes, if you were in a relationship and lived with the deceased for at least two years prior to their death, you may be entitled to make a claim as a dependant.

Yes. Reasonable funeral and burial costs can be included in your compensation claim.

The amount varies depending on your relationship to the deceased, the financial dependency involved, the services they provided, and the emotional impact on your life. We'll assess your unique circumstances during your consultation.

Yes. Bereavement damages are a fixed sum set by law. For deaths on or after 1 December 2025 the amount in Northern Ireland is £19,700, up from £17,200. Only a spouse or civil partner can claim it, or the parents of an unmarried child under 18. It's separate from the claim for lost financial support and funeral costs. Additional compensation may be awarded based on dependency.

In Northern Ireland, you usually have three years from the date of death, or from when you first knew the death was linked to someone's fault, if that is later. It's best to get advice early, while the evidence is fresh.

Yes. Children may claim for loss of parental financial support, care, guidance, and emotional companionship.

Yes. You may still be entitled to compensation under the principle of contributory negligence, although the amount may be reduced based on the deceased's share of responsibility.

We can help you pursue a claim through alternative routes such as the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB) or other liable parties.

Yes, multiple eligible dependants can claim. The total award may be divided based on levels of dependency and individual circumstances.

Most claims settle without going to court. If yours does go to court, we represent you.

Yes. If you're unhappy with your current legal representation, we make it easy to transfer your case with no additional cost or delay.

Grief itself is recognised through the fixed bereavement damages, available to a spouse or civil partner, or the parents of an unmarried child under 18. A relative who develops a recognised psychiatric illness may have a separate claim in limited circumstances, for example after witnessing the accident.

Yes. If the deceased provided regular care for children, elderly relatives, or others, you can claim for the financial impact of losing that support.

Every claim is different. Claims after a death can take longer, especially where there is an inquest or an HSENI or police investigation.

There are no upfront fees. If your claim succeeds, the other side pays your legal costs. If it doesn't, our legal insurance covers the costs.

Simply contact Kearney Law Group by phone, email, or via our website. We'll arrange a free consultation, explain your options, and guide you through the next steps with compassion and clarity.

You'll need documents like proof of relationship, financial records, evidence of emotional or practical dependency, medical or death records, and funeral expenses.