Life Insurance Lawyer Virginia

Trusted Life Insurance Lawyers Virginia: The Lassen Law Firm Navigating life insurance claims in Virginia can be complicated, particularly 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 Old Dominion State recover the payouts they deserve. Whether you’re in Richmond, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake VA, Arlington, Alexandria, Newport News, or anywhere else in Virginia, we bring trusted legal expertise and personalized attention to every case.

As nationally recognized life insurance attorneys, we’ve successfully handled cases across all 50 states, and recovered hundreds of millions in policies for our clients. At The Lassen Law Firm, we combine legal experience, dedicated advocacy, and compassionate care to ensure justice for every client we serve. 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.

VirginiA denied life insurance claims: answers to common questions

What should I do if I was served with a life insurance interpleader lawsuit in Virginia?
If you've been served with a life insurance interpleader in Virginia, you need legal representation right away. Interpleader lawsuits involve competing claims, and a Virginia life insurance attorney can ensure your position is protected in court.
How should I handle a life insurance beneficiary dispute in Virginia?
Our Virginia life insurance law firm represents clients in complex beneficiary disputes involving ex-spouses, children, siblings, and other parties. We pursue litigation when necessary to protect your right to the life insurance payout.
Why might an accidental death & dismemberment claim be denied in Virginia?
Virginia AD&D claims are often denied when insurers argue the death was not accidental but due to a medical event or involved alcohol. Our legal team challenges these denials and works to prove eligibility under the policy terms.
Can a policy lapse lead to a denied life insurance claim in Virginia?
Yes, but in many Virginia cases, the lapse is based on improper notice or a misunderstanding about the grace period. We regularly challenge these denials and fight to reinstate coverage.
Can a life insurance claim be denied for misrepresentation in Virginia?
Yes, but only if the misrepresentation on the application was material and intentional. Our Virginia life insurance attorneys examine the facts to dispute these claims and recover the benefits owed.
Can an alcohol exclusion justify a denied life insurance claim in Virginia?
Some life insurance policies in Virginia include alcohol-related exclusions, but they are often misapplied. We analyze whether alcohol was the true cause of death and whether the exclusion applies under Virginia law.
What should I do about a denied ERISA life insurance claim in Virginia?
If your group life insurance claim was denied under ERISA in Virginia, you only get one chance to appeal. Our attorneys build strong, evidence-backed appeals that meet federal legal standards.
How do I respond to a contestability period denial in Virginia?
Virginia insurers often deny claims within the first two years of a policy by citing misstatements. We challenge denials that rely on irrelevant or immaterial inaccuracies to get our clients paid.
What if my denial letter says the claim was denied due to Virginia state law?
Insurers sometimes misinterpret Virginia insurance laws when issuing denials. We carefully examine the legal basis cited in your denial letter and determine if the reasoning is valid—or just an excuse to avoid payment.
Which life insurance companies in Virginia are known for denying claims?
Some of the most commonly reported companies denying claims in Virginia include Genworth Financial (Richmond), Markel Corporation (Glen Allen), and Virginia Farm Bureau Insurance (Richmond). We handle claims against all major insurers.
Does Virginia revoke ex-spouse beneficiaries after divorce?
Yes. Virginia law automatically removes an ex-spouse as a beneficiary unless the policyholder reaffirms the designation post-divorce. We help resolve these disputes based on policy language and Virginia statutes.
Is Virginia a community property state for life insurance purposes?
No, Virginia is not a community property state. However, if premiums were paid from marital funds, a spouse may still have a claim depending on the circumstances. We help evaluate possible spousal entitlements.
Can a will override a life insurance policy in Virginia?
No. In Virginia, the beneficiary named on the policy takes precedence over any instructions in a will. However, if there are signs of coercion or fraud, we can pursue legal remedies.
How much does a Virginia life insurance attorney cost?
Our Virginia life insurance attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we win your case and recover the policy benefit.
Can a claim be denied in Virginia if the death occurred outside the U.S.?
Yes, but such denials are often unjustified. Many Virginia policies cover deaths that occur abroad, and we challenge denials based on ambiguous or overly broad exclusions.
What if a beneficiary change happened shortly before death in Virginia?
Beneficiary changes made near the time of death in Virginia can be contested if there’s evidence of mental incapacity, duress, or undue influence. We investigate and litigate these disputes to protect your rights.
What can I do if my Virginia life insurance claim is being delayed?
Virginia law requires timely handling of life insurance claims. If your claim has been delayed without justification, we may be able to pursue a bad faith claim or seek penalties.
Can an insurer deny a Virginia AD&D claim by labeling the death as natural?
Yes, but we often contest this tactic. If a death in Virginia is misclassified to avoid paying AD&D benefits, we bring in medical experts and legal arguments to support your claim.
What happens if a Virginia insurance agent filled out the application incorrectly?
If the agent made an error or misled the insured, the insurer in Virginia may still be responsible. We challenge denials based on agent mistakes and demand payment on your behalf.
What qualifies as bad faith in a Virginia life insurance denial?
Bad faith in Virginia includes unfair denial, failure to investigate, or misrepresentation of coverage. We pursue bad faith claims to recover additional damages for our clients.
Can you appeal a life insurance denial in Virginia during the contestability period?
Yes. Even within the contestability window, we challenge Virginia claim denials that rely on unrelated or immaterial application errors.
Are ERISA life insurance claims more complicated in Virginia?
Yes, ERISA policies follow strict federal rules and often limit your remedies. We handle ERISA claims in Virginia and ensure every legal step is properly taken during appeal and litigation.
What if a Virginia policy has no named beneficiary?
If no beneficiary is listed, the benefit may go to the estate or follow Virginia’s default beneficiary statutes. We guide clients through probate or alternative recovery methods.
Can a suspicious beneficiary change be reversed in Virginia?
Yes, in Virginia, if there’s evidence of fraud, undue influence, or lack of capacity, courts can set aside a recent beneficiary change. We litigate these cases on behalf of rightful heirs.
Do Virginia insurers need to give notice before canceling a policy for non-payment?
Yes. Virginia law requires insurers to send proper notice before canceling a life insurance policy. If the insurer failed to comply, we may be able to reinstate coverage.
What happens with union or group life insurance policies in Virginia?
Group policies, including those from unions or associations in Virginia, often have unique provisions. We review the policy language and challenge wrongful denials of these benefits.
Can multiple people claim the same life insurance policy in Virginia?
Yes. When multiple parties file competing claims, insurers may file an interpleader in Virginia. We represent clients in court and defend their claim to the policy proceeds.
What if the insured in Virginia was missing and later declared legally dead?
In Virginia, once the insured is legally declared deceased, the claim process can begin. We help families file the necessary court documents and pursue payment.
How long do I have to appeal a denied life insurance claim in Virginia?
Under ERISA, you generally have 180 days to appeal in Virginia. For private policies, state law may allow more time. We act quickly to preserve your legal rights.
Can a verbal promise override a Virginia life insurance policy?
No. In Virginia, verbal statements do not override written beneficiary designations. But in limited cases, we may argue for legal remedies based on fraud or unjust enrichment.
Are life insurance proceeds in Virginia protected from creditors?
If a named beneficiary exists, Virginia law generally protects those proceeds from creditor claims. However, if the benefit is payable to the estate, it may be subject to debts.
Can unclear language in a Virginia life insurance policy lead to denial?
If the policy wording is ambiguous, Virginia law requires that it be interpreted in favor of the insured or beneficiary. We use this to challenge vague or inconsistent denials.
Can a lapsed policy still be challenged in Virginia?
Yes. If the insurer failed to follow Virginia’s notice rules or the policyholder attempted reinstatement, we may be able to argue the policy remained in force at the time of death.
What if the insurer in Virginia claims the policy was canceled for non-payment?
We investigate whether proper notice was given and whether payment options were available. Many denials based on cancellation can be overturned under Virginia law.
Can a child receive life insurance benefits in Virginia?
Yes, but if the child is a minor, Virginia law requires a guardian or custodial arrangement. We help families set up trusts or guardianships to manage these funds appropriately.
Can a life insurance claim be denied for alleged fraud in Virginia?
Yes, but fraud must be proven—not just alleged. We challenge Virginia life insurance denials based on weak or unsubstantiated fraud accusations.
Can a life insurance dispute be resolved out of court in Virginia?
Yes. Many Virginia life insurance disputes settle through mediation or negotiation. We pursue efficient resolutions while preparing for trial if needed.
What happens if a beneficiary change form was filled out but not submitted in Virginia?
If the form was never processed, the change may not be valid under Virginia law. We assess whether legal remedies like reformation or equitable relief are available.
Are older Virginia life insurance policies still enforceable?
Yes. As long as premiums were paid or the policy was otherwise in good standing, older policies remain valid in Virginia. We help beneficiaries recover long-overdue payouts.
How do I prove I’m the rightful beneficiary in Virginia?
We gather policy documents, correspondence, and witness statements to build your case. Our Virginia attorneys work to establish your legal claim and secure the benefit.
What can I do if I was unfairly excluded from a Virginia life insurance policy?
If your exclusion resulted from mistake, fraud, or coercion, we may be able to challenge the beneficiary designation in a Virginia court and recover what you’re rightfully owed.

2025 Virginia Denied Life Insurance Claims: settlements & verdicts

In 2025, numerous denied life insurance claims in Virginia were effectively resolved through rigorous legal challenges, highlighting essential strategies and the importance of experienced advocacy:

Nationwide’s denial related to COVID-19 death was overturned, resulting in a favorable settlement of $210,000 by clarifying the insurer's pandemic coverage obligations.
The SGLI claim involving the Army's refusal to pay the beneficiary was successfully contested, recovering a significant $400,000 payout after legal intervention.
Franklin Life’s denial due to undisclosed heart conditions was reversed, awarding beneficiaries $397,000 by demonstrating that misrepresentation was not intentional.
A denied life insurance claim from a Virginia mass shooting was successfully contested, securing $540,000 after addressing ambiguities in criminal act exclusions.
A FEGLI policy denial was overturned through rigorous advocacy, securing $289,000 by highlighting procedural errors by the insurer.
Oxford Life’s denial citing sickness exclusion was favorably resolved, recovering $33,000 through clarification of ambiguous policy language.
A policy lapse denial was successfully challenged, recovering $57,000 after demonstrating inadequate notice by the insurer.
Ameriprise’s denial of a coronavirus-related claim was overturned, resulting in a $108,000 settlement by proving misinterpretation of pandemic clauses.
Great Southern’s beneficiary dispute was successfully resolved, clearly determining rightful beneficiaries.
Christian Fidelity’s denial involving missed premium payments was reversed, securing a $59,000 recovery by proving procedural notification errors.
Western United’s denial involving suicide versus accidental death was successfully contested, securing $120,000 by clarifying ambiguities in policy terms.
United Republic's denial based on a sickness exclusion was overturned, awarding beneficiaries $101,100 through litigation clarifying policy terms.
A substantial denied Virginia life insurance claim totaling $750,000 was favorably resolved through detailed legal action.
Kentucky Central’s denial due to a policy lapse was successfully contested, recovering $55,000 by highlighting administrative oversights.
Colonial Penn’s interpleader lawsuit was resolved favorably for beneficiaries, awarding $113,000 clearly identifying the rightful claimant.
A denial due to incorrect age listed on the application was resolved successfully for $20,000 by demonstrating clerical errors.
AFLAC Life’s denial involving self-inflicted injury versus accidental death was successfully appealed, securing a $98,000 recovery.
An SGLI Navy claim regarding beneficiary disputes was resolved, recovering a $400,000 payout after clarifying rightful entitlement.
Midland National’s denial due to missed payments was overturned, recovering $37,000 after proving insurer procedural failures.
Bestow Life’s denial due to power of attorney changes was successfully contested, resulting in a favorable $144,000 settlement.
A delayed Virginia life insurance claim was resolved favorably, recovering $320,000 by demonstrating insurer negligence.
Our Life Covered’s denial due to missed premium payments was overturned, securing a $10,000 recovery after clarifying administrative errors.
First National Life’s denial involving high blood alcohol content was contested successfully, recovering $88,000 by demonstrating alcohol was not the direct cause of death.
Colorado Bankers' policy lapse denial was overturned, recovering $71,000 by proving inadequate notification procedures.
Mass Mutual’s denial citing undisclosed medical history was successfully contested, resulting in a favorable $421,000 payout.
An ERISA-governed life insurance denial was overturned with a robust legal brief, recovering $169,000 through advocacy demonstrating insurer procedural violations.
Amalgamated Life’s sickness exclusion denial was successfully contested, recovering $205,000 by clarifying ambiguous policy language.
Globe Life’s denial involving autoerotic asphyxiation death was overturned, recovering $114,000 by proving accidental death policy ambiguities.
A substantial Virginia denied life insurance claim totaling $2,200,000 was successfully litigated, highlighting extensive insurer procedural errors.
An SGLI dispute between a sister and ex-wife beneficiary was resolved favorably, recovering $400,000 through clear beneficiary documentation.
The Hartford’s felony exclusion denial was contested and successfully resolved, resulting in a $217,000 settlement.
Another significant Virginia denied life insurance claim totaling $945,000 was favorably resolved through diligent litigation.
A FEGLI appeal was won through successful legal advocacy, securing $153,000 by demonstrating insurer procedural mistakes.
Banner Life’s interpleader lawsuit was favorably resolved, awarding $275,000 clearly identifying the rightful beneficiaries.
A Virginia divorce-related life insurance denial totaling $518,000 was successfully resolved, clarifying post-divorce beneficiary rights.
Transamerica’s denial under alcohol exclusions was successfully challenged, securing $314,000 by demonstrating the exclusion did not directly apply.
AARP’s denial claiming the policy was not in force was successfully contested, recovering $107,000 by demonstrating insurer errors.
Liberty Life’s denial during the contestable period was resolved favorably, recovering $217,000 by proving insurer mistakes.
A Virginia bad faith life insurance claim denial was resolved favorably, securing a substantial settlement of $741,000 through demonstrating insurer misconduct.
Prudential’s accidental death AD&D claim denial was successfully contested, resulting in a $427,300 recovery by clarifying ambiguities in accidental death provisions.

Recent Virginia Cases

1. Death Due to Experimental Medical Treatment (Case of Esme)

Esme, a 45-year-old mother of two, had a $390,000 life insurance policy. After being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, she opted for an experimental treatment as part of a clinical trial. Sadly, the treatment led to unexpected complications, and she passed away. When her husband, Raul, filed a claim, the insurer denied it, citing an exclusion for "non-FDA-approved experimental medical procedures."

Raul was devastated and felt the denial was unfair. He hired a top life insurance lawyer who carefully reviewed the policy. The legal team discovered that the policy language did not explicitly define what constituted an "experimental" treatment.

2. Death Occurred on a Cruise Ship – Jurisdictional Dispute (Case of Tobias)

Tobias, a 63-year-old retiree, died unexpectedly from a heart attack while on a luxury cruise in international waters. His daughter, Naomi, submitted a claim under his $150,000 life insurance policy, expecting a straightforward payout. However, the insurer denied the claim, arguing that the death had occurred outside of U.S. jurisdiction and citing a clause requiring deaths to be officially certified within a recognized medical system.

Naomi was outraged and consulted a top life insurance attorney, who launched an investigation. The legal team discovered that the cruise ship had an onboard physician who had properly documented Tobias’s death and that it had been registered with the relevant authorities in the next port of call.

3. Death Occurred in an Off-the-Grid Community – No Death Certificate (Case of Orion)

Orion, a 58-year-old artist, had chosen to live in an off-the-grid eco-community.When he passed away suddenly, his close-knit community held a private burial without involving authorities, per their traditions. His brother, Felix, attempted to claim Orion’s $320,000 life insurance policy, but the insurer denied it due to the absence of an official death certificate.

Felix faced an uphill battle but hired an attorney to challenge the decision. The legal team uncovered a loophole—a law allowed delayed death certificates if alternative evidence was provided.

4. Denial Due to a Rare Policy “Acts of War” Clause (Case of Alina)

Alina, a 52-year-old journalist, was covering a protest in a foreign country when unexpected violent clashes erupted. She was caught in the chaos and fatally injured. Her husband, Emile, filed a claim under her $1 million life insurance policy, only to be denied based on an obscure "acts of war" exclusion, which voided coverage for deaths occurring in conflicts or civil unrest.

Emile was furious and sought legal counsel. His attorney pointed out that the policy did not clearly define what constituted an "act of war" and that Alina was not a combatant or active participant in the protest—she was merely reporting on it.

5. Death Due to an Extreme Fasting Diet (Case of Rafael)

Rafael, a 40-year-old wellness coach, had a $150,000 life insurance policy. Passionate about holistic health, he experimented with extreme fasting as part of a prolonged detox regimen. Tragically, he suffered from severe dehydration and malnutrition, leading to cardiac arrest. When his wife, Beatriz, filed a claim, the insurer denied it, arguing that Rafael had engaged in "self-inflicted bodily harm," which was an exclusion under his policy.

Beatriz refused to accept the denial and hired a legal team to fight back. The attorneys obtained medical expert testimony showing that Rafael had not intended to harm himself but had died as a result of unintended complications.

For more information on insurance regulations and consumer protections in Virginia, you can visit the Virginia State Corporation Commission's Bureau of Insurance. Additionally, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers nationwide insurance resources.