Life insurance Lawyer WV

Trusted Life Insurance Lawyers West Virginia: The Lassen Law Firm Navigating life insurance claims in West Virginia 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 Mountain State recover the payouts they deserve. Whether you’re in Charleston, Morgantown, Huntington WV, Wheeling, or any other part of West Virginia, we provide expert legal representation and personalized support.

As experienced life insurance attorneys handling cases nationwide, we’ve recovered hundreds of millions in policies for our clients. At The Lassen Law Firm, we combine dedication, legal expertise, and relentless advocacy to ensure justice for every individual and family 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.

West Virginia Denied life insurance claims: answers to common questions

What should I do if my life insurance claim in West Virginia was denied?
If your life insurance claim was denied in West Virginia, you should immediately contact a WV life insurance lawyer. Without proper legal guidance, you risk missing deadlines or losing your right to challenge the denial effectively.
What steps should I take if I’m served with a life insurance interpleader lawsuit in West Virginia?
Being served with an interpleader in West Virginia means there’s a dispute over who should receive the life insurance proceeds. You’ll need an experienced WV life insurance attorney to defend your rights and protect your claim in court.
Can I get legal help with a life insurance beneficiary dispute in West Virginia?
Yes. Our West Virginia life insurance law firm handles all types of beneficiary disputes, including those involving ex-spouses, adult children, or sudden changes before death. We fight for your rightful share of the benefit.
Why do insurers deny accidental death and dismemberment claims in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, AD&D claims are often denied on the grounds that the death was due to natural causes, a medical event, or intoxication—common exclusions in these policies. Our attorneys challenge these denials with medical and legal evidence.
Can policy lapse be a valid reason for denial of life insurance in West Virginia?
Yes, but many lapse-related denials in West Virginia can be contested. If the insurance company didn’t follow proper notice procedures or the death occurred during the grace period, we may still recover benefits for you.
Is misrepresentation on a life insurance application grounds for denial in West Virginia?
Yes, but under West Virginia law, the misrepresentation must be material and intentional. Our WV life insurance attorneys challenge denials based on misstatements that had no impact on the cause of death or the issuance of the policy.
Can a West Virginia life insurance claim be denied due to an alcohol exclusion?
Yes, but we frequently challenge alcohol-related denials in West Virginia when the exclusion is too broad or the alcohol was not the true cause of death.
How do I handle a bad faith ERISA life insurance denial in West Virginia?
If your ERISA-governed claim was denied in West Virginia, act fast. You only get one appeal. Our attorneys are highly experienced in preparing ERISA appeals that meet federal standards and challenge bad faith denials.
What should I do about a contestability period claim denial in West Virginia?
If your claim was denied during the two-year contestability window in West Virginia, we investigate whether the alleged misstatement was material or related to the cause of death. Many of these denials can be overturned.
What if my life insurance denial letter says it was based on Virginia law?
If your policy is governed by West Virginia law but the denial cites Virginia statutes, it could be a serious legal error. Our attorneys can identify jurisdictional issues and challenge the improper use of state law.
Which life insurance companies are known for denying claims in West Virginia?
One company with a history of denied claims in West Virginia is W VA Insurance Company in Birch River. Regardless of the insurer, our firm holds companies accountable across the state.
Does West Virginia law revoke a beneficiary designation for an ex-spouse after divorce?
Yes. In West Virginia, an ex-spouse is automatically removed as a life insurance beneficiary after divorce unless the insured reaffirmed the designation. We help determine whether this rule affects your claim.
Is West Virginia a community property state, and does it affect life insurance benefits?
No, West Virginia is not a community property state. However, if marital funds were used to pay life insurance premiums, we can analyze whether the surviving spouse may have a claim to part of the benefit.
Can a will change the beneficiary on a life insurance policy in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, a will cannot override a named life insurance beneficiary. But if there’s evidence of coercion or fraud, we may be able to challenge the designation in court.
How much does a West Virginia life insurance attorney charge?
Our West Virginia life insurance lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we win your case and recover benefits on your behalf.
Can a claim in West Virginia be denied if the insured died abroad?
Yes, but only under specific policy exclusions. Many denials for overseas deaths in West Virginia are improperly applied. We review the policy terms and challenge wrongful denials involving international fatalities.
What if a beneficiary was changed right before the policyholder died in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, last-minute beneficiary changes can be disputed if there’s evidence of lack of capacity, undue influence, or fraud. We investigate and take legal action when appropriate.
What happens if a life insurance claim is delayed in West Virginia without reason?
Unjustified delays in West Virginia may constitute insurer bad faith. We push insurers to act promptly and pursue damages if they engage in stalling tactics.
Can a West Virginia insurer deny an accidental death claim by calling it natural causes?
Yes, but we’ve successfully challenged this in West Virginia. If the cause of death was misclassified to avoid paying AD&D benefits, we work with forensic experts to dispute the claim.
What if a life insurance agent filled out the application incorrectly in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, if an agent made a mistake or entered false information, the insurer may still be responsible. We challenge denials based on agent error and pursue full recovery.
What qualifies as bad faith in a West Virginia life insurance denial?
In West Virginia, bad faith includes failure to investigate, misrepresentation of policy terms, or refusal to pay without justification. These cases can lead to punitive damages in addition to policy proceeds.
Can I appeal a denied West Virginia life insurance claim during the contestability period?
Yes. Contestability period denials in West Virginia must still meet legal standards. If the misrepresentation wasn’t material or intentional, we can often reverse the decision.
Are group life insurance claims under ERISA harder to fight in West Virginia?
Yes, ERISA policies have strict procedures. But our West Virginia life insurance attorneys handle ERISA claims regularly and know how to navigate the administrative process and court system.
What happens if there’s no beneficiary listed on a West Virginia life insurance policy?
If no beneficiary is named, West Virginia law governs the distribution, usually to the estate or surviving relatives. We assist with probate and legal processes to recover the funds.
Can I contest a suspicious beneficiary designation in West Virginia?
Yes. If you believe a beneficiary designation was the result of fraud or undue influence in West Virginia, we can file a legal action to contest the designation.
Are insurers in West Virginia required to give notice before canceling a policy?
Yes, insurers in West Virginia must follow strict notice rules before termination. If your policy was canceled without proper notice, the denial may be invalid.
How are life insurance policies from unions or associations handled in West Virginia?
Union and group policies often have unique terms. Our West Virginia life insurance lawyers review these contracts carefully and help you challenge any wrongful denial.
What if multiple people claim the same life insurance benefit in West Virginia?
When multiple claimants assert a right to the same benefit, the insurer may file an interpleader in a West Virginia court. We represent clients in resolving these disputes.
Can a life insurance claim proceed in West Virginia if the insured was missing and later declared dead?
Yes. Once the insured is legally declared dead in West Virginia, the claim can move forward. We assist families with the legal process and documentation.
How long do I have to appeal a denied life insurance claim in West Virginia?
The deadline depends on whether the policy is governed by ERISA or state law. ERISA typically allows 180 days. Our team ensures all deadlines in West Virginia are met.
Can a verbal promise override a written beneficiary in West Virginia?
No. West Virginia law recognizes only written beneficiary designations. However, in cases of fraud or mistake, courts may impose equitable remedies.
Are life insurance proceeds protected from creditors in West Virginia?
Yes, if a named beneficiary exists. If the life insurance proceeds are payable to the estate, they may be subject to creditor claims under West Virginia probate law.
Can vague policy wording be used to deny a life insurance claim in West Virginia?
No. In West Virginia, unclear or ambiguous life insurance language is interpreted in favor of the policyholder or beneficiary. We use this rule to fight wrongful denials.
Can a policy that lapsed be reinstated in West Virginia?
Yes. If the insured applied for reinstatement or the insurer failed to notify properly, we may argue that the life insurance policy was still valid under West Virginia law.
What if the insurer claims the policy was canceled for non-payment in West Virginia?
We review the notice procedures and payment history. If the insurer didn’t follow West Virginia requirements, the policy may not have been properly canceled.
Can a minor in West Virginia receive life insurance benefits?
Yes, but a guardian or trust may be needed. Our firm helps families in West Virginia set up structures to ensure the funds are protected and properly used for the minor.
Can a claim be denied in West Virginia based on unproven fraud allegations?
Fraud claims must be backed by evidence. If your denial in West Virginia was based on speculation or weak accusations, we challenge it legally.
Can I settle a life insurance dispute in West Virginia without going to court?
Yes. Many West Virginia life insurance disputes are resolved through negotiation or mediation. We work to reach fair settlements while preparing to litigate if necessary.
What if a beneficiary change form was filled out but never submitted in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, an unsubmitted change is not valid. However, we may explore equitable claims if the change reflected the insured’s clear intent.
Are older life insurance policies still enforceable in West Virginia?
Yes. As long as the policy was active and premiums were paid, older life insurance policies in West Virginia remain valid. We help recover benefits even from decades-old plans.
How can I prove I’m the rightful life insurance beneficiary in West Virginia?
We collect documentation, witness statements, and policy records to support your position. Our attorneys present a strong case to validate your status in West Virginia courts.
What can I do if I believe I was wrongly excluded from a life insurance policy in West Virginia?
If you were excluded due to fraud, coercion, or mistake, we may be able to challenge the designation in a West Virginia court and pursue the benefit on your behalf.

2025 West Virginia Denied Life Insurance Claims: settlements & Verdicts

In 2025, West Virginia experienced several pivotal settlements and verdicts involving denied life insurance claims, underscoring the critical role of legal representation in such disputes:

Liberty Mutual's coronavirus death denial was successfully challenged, securing $304,900 after establishing that pandemic exclusions were misapplied.
A denied life insurance claim following a mass shooting in West Virginia resulted in a favorable settlement of $105,000, clarifying ambiguities around criminal act exclusions.
Kentucky Central's denial due to an incorrect last name on the policy was overturned, awarding beneficiaries $39,000 after demonstrating a simple clerical error.
A contested Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) claim resulted in a successful recovery of $56,300 by proving ambiguous policy language.
Global Atlantic’s COVID-19-related death claim denial was successfully contested, securing $125,000 through litigation clarifying coverage applicability.
Farmers Life’s sickness exclusion denial was favorably resolved, recovering $33,000 by highlighting unclear policy terms.
Wilton's denial due to fentanyl overdose was successfully challenged, securing $77,000 after proving accidental circumstances rather than deliberate misuse.
American Fidelity Life's felony exclusion denial was reversed for $59,000 by challenging insurer misinterpretation of criminal acts.
Mutual of Omaha’s suicide/self-inflicted injury denial was overturned with a substantial settlement of $524,000 by proving ambiguity in policy provisions.
Costco Life’s policy lapse denial was favorably resolved for $40,000 after demonstrating inadequate notice provided by the insurer.
An AD&D claim involving high blood alcohol content (BAC) was successfully appealed, recovering $76,000 by showing alcohol consumption did not directly cause death.
Guarantee Security Life’s denial involving power of attorney changes was successfully resolved, securing $109,000 after proving valid authorization.
Phoenix Life's termination of a policy was contested and resolved favorably, awarding $81,000 after demonstrating improper termination procedures.
Globe Life's denial due to a lapsed policy was successfully contested, recovering $33,000 after proving administrative oversights.
CNO Financial's denial linked to undisclosed smoking was reversed for $15,000 by proving insurer's inadequate underwriting processes.
Baltimore Life's power of attorney change denial was successfully challenged, recovering $29,000 through established legitimacy of changes.
Great West's denial involving missed premium payments was overturned, securing a settlement of $78,000 after establishing procedural notification failures.
Mutual of Omaha’s alcohol toxicology-related denial was reversed, awarding $45,000 by demonstrating alcohol was not the primary cause of death.
Mass Mutual’s denial citing material misrepresentation on the application was successfully contested, securing a significant $439,000 payout.
Globe Life's denial involving autoerotic asphyxiation death was overturned, recovering $118,400 by clarifying policy ambiguities around accidental death.
AIG's accidental death (AD&D) claim denial was favorably contested, resulting in a $452,000 recovery through litigation proving accidental circumstances.
A major West Virginia denied life insurance claim totaling $1,027,000 was successfully litigated, emphasizing insurer procedural errors and unjust denials.
Columbus Life’s alcohol exclusion denial was overturned, securing $203,000 after demonstrating improper application of exclusion terms.
An ERISA-governed life insurance denial case in West Virginia was successfully resolved, recovering $285,000 by proving violations of federal guidelines.
The Hartford's felony exclusion denial was contested and successfully resolved, resulting in a significant $337,000 payout.
A substantial life insurance denial involving $648,000 was resolved favorably for beneficiaries, highlighting procedural failures by the insurer.
Gerber Life’s sickness exclusion denial was successfully overturned, securing $206,000 through clarification of policy ambiguities.
An SGLI claim dispute between a spouse and ex-spouse was favorably resolved, awarding beneficiaries $400,000 by clearly delineating rightful entitlement.
A West Virginia divorce-related life insurance denial of $941,000 was successfully contested, securing recovery by clarifying post-divorce beneficiary rights.
A FEGLI policy denial was successfully appealed, resulting in a favorable resolution of $148,000 by demonstrating procedural oversights by the insurer.
Penn Mutual's interpleader lawsuit was favorably won by claimants, resulting in a $417,000 payout after establishing rightful beneficiary status.
American General’s policy reinstatement denial was successfully contested, recovering $182,000 by proving insurer errors in the reinstatement process.
A significant West Virginia bad faith life insurance claim denial resulted in a substantial recovery of $825,000, emphasizing insurer misconduct and procedural negligence.
Stonebridge Life's illegal drug exclusion denial was successfully contested, securing $114,000 by proving policy exclusions were improperly applied.

Recent West Virginia cases

1. Misrepresentation – Omission of Smoking (Case of Leland)

Leland, a 56-year-old construction foreman, had a $350,000 life insurance policy through a major insurer. When he applied for coverage, he answered "no" to a question about tobacco use. However, after his passing from lung cancer, his wife, Renee, filed a claim that was promptly denied. The insurer cited "material misrepresentation," arguing that Leland had a history of smoking and had omitted this from his application.

Devastated, Renee sought a top life insurance lawyer. A thorough review of Leland’s medical records revealed that he had quit smoking over three years before applying for life insurance. His doctors had documented his tobacco cessation, and nicotine tests from his medical visits confirmed that he had been smoke-free. The life insurance dispute law firm argued that since Leland was no longer a smoker at the time of the application, the omission was not material, and won.

2. Involved in a Felony Shooting (Case of Malik)

Malik, a 29-year-old retail manager, was tragically killed during a late-night shooting at a gas station. His mother, Tasha, was the sole beneficiary of his $450,000 life insurance policy. When she filed a claim, the insurer denied it under a "felony exclusion clause," asserting that Malik had been engaged in criminal activity at the time of his death.

Determined to prove her son’s innocence, Tasha hired a top life insurance lawyer who obtained security footage from the gas station. The video showed that Malik was an innocent bystander, caught in the crossfire of an altercation between two other individuals. Further evidence from police reports and eyewitness statements confirmed that Malik had no connection to the perpetrators and was simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, and the life insurance law firm won.

3. AD&D Claim – Fall vs. Medical Event (Case of Everett)

Everett, a 67-year-old retired teacher, died after falling down a flight of stairs at home. His wife, Camille, submitted a claim under his Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) policy, which covered deaths resulting from unforeseen accidents. However, the insurer denied the claim, arguing that Everett had suffered a stroke before the fall, making it a medical event rather than an accident.

Determined to challenge the decision, Camille retained a top life insurance lawyer who hired an independent forensic pathologist, who conducted a review of Everett’s autopsy and medical records. The expert concluded that there was no clear evidence Everett had suffered a stroke prior to falling. Instead, the severe head trauma from the fall itself was determined to be the primary cause of death.

Armed with this medical testimony, Camille’s life insurance lawyer sent a legal brief to the insurer, highlighting that the burden of proof was on them to show that the stroke, not the fall, had caused the death. Unable to provide conclusive evidence, the insurer reversed its decision and paid out the full AD&D benefit.

4. Last-Minute Beneficiary Change by POA (Case of Odette)

Odette, an 84-year-old retired professor, had maintained a life insurance policy for over two decades, naming her son, Lionel, as the sole beneficiary. However, shortly before her passing, her nephew, who held her Power of Attorney (POA), changed the beneficiary designation to himself. When Lionel attempted to claim the policy proceeds, he was shocked to learn that the insurer had already accepted the change and was planning to pay his cousin instead.

Suspicious of the last-minute change, Lionel hired a top life insurance lawyer, who conducted an investigation. Medical records showed that Odette had been diagnosed with early-stage dementia at the time of the change. The life insurance attorney also obtained testimony from Odette’s caregivers, who confirmed that she had expressed continued intent for Lionel to be her beneficiary and had not been involved in the decision to change it.

With this evidence, Lionel’s legal team filed a formal challenge with the insurer and threatened litigation. Faced with the possibility of a court ruling in Lionel’s favor and a potential fraud investigation, the insurer reinstated Lionel as the rightful beneficiary and issued the full payout.

5. Denial Due to Policy Exclusion (Case of Simone)

Simone, a 41-year-old marine biologist, died in a scuba diving accident while on vacation in Belize. Her husband, Elias, filed a claim under her $1.5 million life insurance policy, only to be denied due to an exclusion for "hazardous recreational activities."

Elias reviewed the policy and noticed that the exclusion was vaguely worded. Determined to challenge the denial, he consulted a top life insurance attorney who dissected the policy language. The exclusion defined hazardous activities as "extreme or competitive sports." However, Simone had been on a certified, guided diving excursion—not an extreme or competitive dive.

Elias’s life insurance legal team sent a brief to the insurer, arguing that the policy's wording was ambiguous and must be interpreted in favor of the policyholder, and won.

6. Death During Policy Lapse While in a Nursing Home (Case of Theo)

Theo, an 82-year-old former firefighter, had maintained a $250,000 life insurance policy for years. However, while in a nursing home, his automatic premium payments stopped due to a banking issue. Because he was suffering from cognitive decline, he was unaware that his policy had lapsed. When he passed away two months later, his daughter, Nadine, filed a claim—only to be denied on the basis that the policy was no longer in force.

Nadine sought legal help, and her life insurance attorney argued that the lapse had occurred due to Theo’s incapacitation and that he had not received proper notice. Further investigation revealed that state laws required insurers to provide written notice to both the policyholder and a secondary contact before canceling a policy for non-payment. The insurer had failed to do this.

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