Life Insurance Lawyer North Dakota

Experienced Life Insurance Lawyers North Dakota: The Lassen Law Firm Dealing with life insurance claims in North Dakota can be challenging, especially when faced with denied benefits or bad faith insurance practices. At The Lassen Law Firm, we are committed to helping individuals and families across the Peace Garden State recover the payouts they deserve. Whether you’re in Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot, or any other community in North Dakota, we provide trusted legal expertise and personalized support.

As experienced life insurance attorneys handling cases nationwide, we’ve successfully recovered hundreds of millions in policies for our clients. At The Lassen Law Firm, we combine legal expertise, dedication, and compassionate advocacy to fight for justice and deliver exceptional results. Call now for a free consultation to see if we can help you recover your life insurance benefits. No obligation.

Unlike other firms, The Lassen Law Firm exclusively handles denied life insurance claims. With 24 years of experience in this niche, we are recognized as top experts in the field. Our lawyers have earned prestigious awards, including membership in the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum and a 10.0 rating on AVVO. No other firm offers the same level of dedication and expertise in denied life insurance cases.

North Dakota denied life insurance claims: answers to common questions

• What should I do if my life insurance claim in North Dakota has been denied?
  You should immediately contact a skilled North Dakota life insurance attorney. Many denials are challengeable, and a lawyer can help secure the benefit you’re owed.

• How do I respond to a life insurance interpleader lawsuit in North Dakota?
  If you’ve been named in an interpleader case in North Dakota, it means the insurer is letting the court decide who receives the benefit. You need a North Dakota life insurance attorney to represent your interests and avoid losing your rightful share.

• What happens during a life insurance beneficiary dispute in North Dakota?
  Beneficiary disputes in North Dakota can be complex, especially with divorces, remarriages, or last-minute changes. Our law firm represents clients in resolving these disputes through negotiation or litigation.

• Why are accidental death and dismemberment claims often denied in North Dakota?
  In North Dakota, AD&D claims are commonly denied when insurers argue the death resulted from a medical issue or alcohol, not an accident. We investigate and push back against these denials.

• Can a policy lapse result in a denied life insurance claim in North Dakota?
  Yes, but North Dakota requires insurers to provide adequate notice. If they failed to follow those rules, our attorneys may be able to recover the benefit.

• Is misrepresentation on the application a reason insurers deny claims in North Dakota?
  Yes, but only if the misstatement was material and made with intent to deceive. We often prove that the error had no impact on the policy and should not void coverage.

• Can an alcohol exclusion be used to deny a North Dakota life insurance claim?
  Yes, but only if alcohol was the direct cause of death and the policy language is clear. We challenge denials when exclusions are vague or misapplied.

• How should I handle an ERISA life insurance denial in North Dakota?
  Because ERISA plans allow only one appeal, you need an experienced North Dakota life insurance lawyer to prepare a strong case before the appeal deadline passes.

• What is the purpose of the contestability period in North Dakota life insurance policies?
  The contestability period in North Dakota is typically two years. During this time, insurers may deny claims based on misstatements, but we often succeed in proving the error was unrelated to the cause of death.

• What if my denial letter cites North Dakota law as the reason for denial?
  Denials based on North Dakota statutes can be misleading. Our attorneys analyze the legal basis and often find grounds to dispute and reverse these decisions.

• Which life insurance companies deny the most claims in North Dakota?
  Dakota Capital Life Insurance in Bismarck and New York Life in Harvey are often cited in disputed claims. We handle denials from all major North Dakota insurers.

• Does divorce revoke an ex-spouse’s beneficiary rights in North Dakota?
  Yes. North Dakota law generally removes an ex-spouse as a beneficiary after divorce unless the policyholder reaffirms the designation. We help clients resolve disputes over ex-spouse claims.

• Is North Dakota a community property state, and does that affect life insurance claims?
  No, North Dakota is not a community property state. However, if the premiums were paid with marital assets, a spouse might have a legal claim to part of the proceeds.

• Can a will change the outcome of a life insurance payout in North Dakota?
  No. In North Dakota, the named beneficiary on the policy takes precedence over any will. However, court intervention may occur in cases of fraud or manipulation.

• What do North Dakota life insurance lawyers charge for denied claims?
  We work on a contingency fee basis in North Dakota. You don’t pay unless we successfully recover your life insurance benefit.

• Can a North Dakota life insurance claim be denied due to a death overseas?
  Yes, if the policy contains a foreign death exclusion. We challenge these denials when the exclusion doesn’t clearly apply or was misinterpreted.

• What happens if the beneficiary was changed shortly before the insured’s death in North Dakota?
  Beneficiary changes made near death can be legally challenged in North Dakota if there is evidence of undue influence or mental incapacity.

• What should I do if my North Dakota life insurance claim is taking too long?
  Unreasonable delays may amount to bad faith. Our attorneys pressure the insurer to pay or take legal action to recover additional compensation under North Dakota law.

• Can insurers deny accidental death benefits in North Dakota by labeling a death natural?
  Yes, but we frequently overturn such denials by proving the death fits the policy’s definition of “accidental.”

• Can an insurance agent’s error lead to claim denial in North Dakota?
  Yes, but if the mistake was made by the agent, the insurer may still be liable. We pursue denials caused by application errors made by North Dakota agents.

• What is considered bad faith in a North Dakota life insurance denial?
  Bad faith includes failing to investigate, misrepresenting the policy, or denying a valid claim. North Dakota law may allow additional damages if bad faith is proven.

• Can contestability period denials be appealed in North Dakota?
  Absolutely. We often show that misstatements had no relevance to the claim or were unintentional, and we fight to have benefits paid.

• Are ERISA life insurance appeals more difficult in North Dakota?
  They are more limited due to federal restrictions. Our North Dakota attorneys are experienced in crafting effective appeals and litigating in federal court when needed.

• What if there is no named beneficiary on a North Dakota policy?
  If no one is named, the proceeds usually go to the estate. We assist families with probate and help recover the life insurance payout.

• Can I challenge a suspicious beneficiary designation in North Dakota?
  Yes. If you suspect fraud, coercion, or lack of mental capacity, we can file a legal challenge to contest the change and assert your rightful claim.

• Do North Dakota insurers have to notify policyholders before canceling coverage?
  Yes, and failure to do so may invalidate a cancellation. If your claim was denied for lapse, we investigate whether proper notice was given.

• How are group and employer life insurance policies handled in North Dakota?
  These policies are often governed by ERISA. We review the terms and dispute denials resulting from administrative errors or missed enrollment deadlines.

• What happens when multiple people claim a North Dakota life insurance policy?
  Insurers may file an interpleader in North Dakota court. We represent clients in these cases to fight for their rightful portion of the benefit.

• Can I file a claim if the insured was declared dead after going missing in North Dakota?
  Yes. Once a court issues a legal death declaration in North Dakota, the claim process can begin. We guide families through both legal and insurance procedures.

• How long do I have to appeal a denied life insurance claim in North Dakota?
  ERISA appeals must be filed within 180 days. Other policies may allow more time. We make sure your appeal is filed properly and on time.

• Are verbal promises about life insurance enforceable in North Dakota?
  Typically, no. North Dakota requires beneficiary designations to be in writing, but we may pursue equitable remedies if there’s clear evidence of the insured’s intent.

• Are life insurance proceeds protected from creditors in North Dakota?
  Yes, if there’s a named beneficiary. If the proceeds go to the estate, however, they may be subject to creditor claims.

• Can unclear or vague language in a life insurance policy be used to deny a claim in North Dakota?
  No. North Dakota law requires ambiguous terms to be interpreted in favor of the insured or beneficiary. We use this to dispute denials based on vague wording.

• Can a canceled or lapsed policy still pay out in North Dakota?
  Yes, if the insurer failed to follow proper procedures or if the policyholder attempted to reinstate. We investigate and pursue valid claims.

• What if the insurer says the North Dakota policy lapsed due to non-payment?
  We review whether the insurer provided adequate notice under North Dakota law. If not, the lapse may be invalid and the claim still payable.

• Can a minor receive life insurance proceeds in North Dakota?
  Yes, but a guardian or trust may need to manage the funds. We help families in North Dakota set up legal structures to protect minor beneficiaries.

• Can a claim be denied in North Dakota due to alleged fraud?
  Yes, but only if the insurer proves intentional deception. We contest denials based on weak or unsubstantiated fraud claims.

• Can a North Dakota life insurance claim dispute be resolved without court?
  Yes. Many disputes are settled through negotiation or mediation. We aim for efficient resolution but are prepared to litigate when necessary.

• What if a beneficiary change form was never submitted in North Dakota?
  If the change wasn’t processed, the old designation may remain valid. We help clients assert claims based on the policyholder’s true intent.

• Are older life insurance policies still enforceable in North Dakota?
  Yes. If the policy was in force at the time of death, it remains valid. We assist clients in recovering benefits from longstanding policies.

• How can I prove I’m the rightful beneficiary of a life insurance policy in North Dakota?
  We collect and present documentation, policy records, and legal evidence to support your claim. Our North Dakota attorneys build strong cases to help you recover the benefit.

2025 North Dakota Denied Life Insurance Claims: settlements & verdicts

• Nationwide coronavirus death denied $202,000.00
• Bestow Life chronic illness exclusion $56,000.00
• MassMutual POA beneficiary change $104,000.00
• Country Financial Life lapse of policy $30,000.00
• Globe Life COVID-19 death denial $107,000.00
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment Alcohol $938,000.00
• CMFG Life material misrepresentation $58,000.00
• Ladder Life intoxication exclusion won $75,000.00
• RiverSource lapsed the policy rejection $104,000.00
• Army Life change of beneficiary form $402,145.00
• Wilton Life cancer in the medical records $60,000.00
• OneAmerica Life suicide exclusion hanging $110,000.00
• Mass shooting North Dakota exclusion $205,000.00

• Globe misrepresentation application $102,400.00
• American General felony exclusion $416,000.00
• Banner prescription drug exclusion denial $263,000.00
• Prudential interpleader lawsuit beneficiaries $477,000.00
• North Dakota denied life insurance claim $1,118,000.00
• AIG accidental death and dismemberment $427,000.00
• SGLI beneficiary change form issue $400,000.00
• Denied life insurance claim North Dakota $458,000.00
• Gerber autoerotic asphyxiation death $219,000.00
• ERISA insufficient documents supporting claim $143,000.00
• North Dakota divorce and life insurance $269,000.00
• Transamerica bad faith life insurance claim $150,000.00
• North Dakota denied AD&D claim $755,300.00

One reason a claim could be denied, although rarely discussed, is the insurer’s use of an "insufficient medical disclosure" defense. Life insurance policies with companies like Reliastar, USAA, or Lincoln Heritage may require full disclosure of medical conditions, and even the slightest omission—whether intentional or accidental—could lead to a denial. For example, if a policyholder fails to mention a recent but undiagnosed medical issue, such as high blood pressure, the insurer may later claim that the policy was voided due to the omission. Even if the undisclosed condition was not directly related to the cause of death, the insurer could argue that the policyholder’s failure to disclose the condition was material, thus invalidating the claim. This can be especially difficult for beneficiaries, who may not realize that the omission was a factor in the claim’s denial until much later in the process.

Another uncommon reason for claim denial is "disputed premium payment history." Companies like MetLife, Symetra, and Globe Life may deny claims if there is confusion regarding whether premiums were paid in full, or if there were issues with how payments were processed. For instance, a policyholder may have believed their premiums were paid automatically through a bank draft, but the insurer could later argue that a payment didn’t clear or wasn’t applied correctly to the account. This often happens if there’s an issue with the account from which premiums were drawn, like a change in bank accounts or insufficient funds. Such cases can be particularly frustrating because the insured may have assumed their policy was active, only to discover posthumously that premiums were not applied as expected, leading to a denial.

In some cases, the insurer may deny the claim due to "a failure to comply with the policy's specific requirements for claims." Companies like AIG, Erie, and Transamerica often have detailed instructions about how to submit a claim, and if the beneficiary doesn’t follow these instructions precisely, they could be denied benefits. For instance, if a beneficiary fails to provide all required documentation (e.g., proof of death, a medical examiner’s report, or an autopsy), or submits it in the wrong format or by the wrong deadline, the insurer may argue that the claim is incomplete or invalid. Although this seems like a minor administrative issue, it can lead to substantial delays or outright rejection if the insurer doesn’t believe the requirements have been met.

Another issue that’s less commonly recognized is the insurer’s use of a "criminal activity exclusion" clause. Insurers such as Lincoln Financial, Prudential, and Zurich may have clauses that exclude coverage if the policyholder’s death was the result of a criminal act, either as a perpetrator or a victim. For example, if a policyholder was killed during a robbery attempt, or if they were involved in illegal activity at the time of their death, the insurer may use this clause to deny the claim. While this is a rare reason for denial, it can be particularly damaging when it applies. Even when the insured's death is accidental or unrelated to criminal activity, insurers might argue that the death falls under a specific exclusion, which often leads to lengthy investigations and disputes.

Perhaps one of the most complicated reasons for a life insurance claim denial involves "beneficiary disputes." In North Dakota, as elsewhere, disputes over who is entitled to the life insurance benefits can lead to long delays and even lawsuits. Beneficiaries may disagree on the rightful recipient of the death benefit, which could stem from previous changes to beneficiary designations, conflicting wills, or misunderstandings about the policyholder’s intentions. For example, if the deceased had designated one beneficiary but later changed it without updating the documents properly, another potential beneficiary may challenge the change. In such cases, insurance companies such as Guardian, Aetna, or Foresters may find themselves in the middle of a dispute, unsure of who to pay. To resolve these issues, insurers may file an interpleader lawsuit, essentially asking the court to decide who should receive the death benefit.

An interpleader lawsuit is particularly relevant in cases where the beneficiary designation is contested by multiple parties. For example, if a policyholder initially named their spouse as the beneficiary, but later named a child as the beneficiary, and the spouse disputes the change, the insurance company might refuse to pay either party. Instead, they would file an interpleader lawsuit, asking the court to resolve the dispute. This legal process allows the insurer to deposit the death benefit into the court registry and let the judge decide which claimant is legally entitled to the funds. While the insurer is protected from legal liability in this situation, the beneficiaries may experience a significant delay in receiving the payout, sometimes for months or even years, depending on the complexity of the case.

The complexity of these interpleader lawsuits increases when one of the beneficiaries has a compelling legal argument, such as a claim based on undue influence, duress, or fraud. These legal arguments can create even more uncertainty and may require in-depth legal investigations. For example, if a beneficiary can prove that they were coerced into changing the beneficiary designation or that the deceased was mentally incapable at the time the change was made, the court might rule in their favor. Such cases often involve emotional and financial strain for the individuals involved, and insurers like Allianz, Nationwide, and Americo may find themselves stuck in a legal battle with no clear end in sight.

An uncommon but important reason for claim denial is related to "improper changes to the policy." If a policyholder makes changes to their coverage without adhering to the proper procedures, the insurer may invalidate the policy or reduce the benefit payout. For instance, if someone increases their coverage without informing the insurer of any changes in health or lifestyle, the insurer may argue that the new policy was issued based on inaccurate information. This can lead to a partial payout or, in extreme cases, a full denial of the claim. Companies such as Nationwide, Liberty National, and MassMutual have been known to deny claims based on this technicality, which often catches beneficiaries off guard.

For more information on insurance regulations and consumer protections in North Dakota, you can visit the North Dakota Insurance Department. Additionally, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers nationwide insurance resources.