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Death Benefits for Fallen First Responders

First responders face risks that most people never encounter in their daily work. Whether responding to a fire, managing a violent incident, or providing emergency medical care, these professionals often put their own lives at risk to protect others. When a tragic loss occurs in the line of duty, the families left behind may be entitled to financial assistance through death benefits. Understanding how these benefits work and how to claim them is essential for surviving spouses, children, or dependents.

At The Law Offices of Feeley & LaRocca, we advocate for public employees and their families, including firefighters, police officers, and EMTs, who deserve support after a life-changing loss. Our firm helps guide families through New Jersey’s workers’ compensation system, enabling them to access the benefits they are entitled to without delay or confusion.

If your family has lost a loved one in the line of duty, reach out to our team today to understand your legal options.

How New Jersey Provides for Surviving Dependents

Death benefits are payments made to eligible family members when a worker dies as a result of a job-related injury or illness. In New Jersey, these benefits are governed by the state’s workers’ compensation laws. If the deceased was a first responder performing official duties at the time of death, their dependents may qualify for financial compensation and funeral coverage.

Under N.J.S.A. 34:15-13, surviving dependents may receive up to 70% of the worker’s average weekly wage, subject to a statewide maximum. The benefits are shared among qualifying family members, including spouses and minor children.

A workers’ compensation lawyer can assist in determining eligibility, collecting the required documents, and ensuring that all deadlines are met appropriately.

Who May Be Eligible to Receive Benefits

New Jersey law defines who may be considered a dependent. These typically include:

• A surviving spouse
• Children under age 18 (or under 23 if enrolled in full-time education)
• Adult children with a permanent disability
• Other relatives who were financially dependent on the deceased
  

Eligibility requires more than a familial relationship. Proof of financial dependence may be necessary, especially for extended family members. A death benefits attorney can help organize the financial records, affidavits, and other supporting materials required to establish dependency.

What Is Covered Beyond Wage Replacement

In addition to wage replacement, New Jersey law provides for funeral expenses, up to a statutory maximum. As of 2024, this reimbursement can be as high as $3,500. While this may not cover the entire cost, it offers partial relief during an emotionally and financially challenging time.

Some first responders may also be part of union agreements or retirement systems that offer additional death benefits. A workers’ compensation attorney can review those agreements to determine whether more financial support may be available beyond what the state provides.

Establishing the Work-Related Nature of the Death

To qualify for benefits, the death must be directly connected to the individual’s job duties. This may include:

• Fatal injuries during emergency response
• Exposure to hazardous substances resulting in fatal illness
• Vehicle accidents occurring while on duty
• Stress-related cardiac events during physically demanding tasks
  

Sometimes, the cause of death may be disputed. In those situations, a workers’ comp lawyer in New Jersey can gather witness statements, medical records, and duty logs to prove the link between the death and the worker’s responsibilities.

Our firm has handled cases of this nature with care and urgency. Visit our practice areas page to learn more about how we support public employees and their families.

Filing Claims With Confidence and Clarity

Filing for death benefits involves strict timelines and procedural requirements. Families are often under pressure while grieving and may struggle to manage the claim process on their own. Legal guidance can reduce that burden. Our attorneys prepare and file the necessary forms, communicate with insurance carriers, and appear at hearings when required.

You can learn more about how our firm supports clients by visiting our testimonials page, where past clients share their experiences working with us during challenging times.

Getting Your Family the Support It Deserves

When a first responder loses their life in the line of duty, the loss is felt across an entire community. The financial and emotional strain on the family can be overwhelming. The Law Offices of Feeley & LaRocca is here to help. We assist families in pursuing full benefits allowed under New Jersey law. Whether the loss occurred in the field, at a station, or during transport, our firm is prepared to guide your claim with care and focus. Contact us today to speak with someone who can help your family move forward.