Receiving a life insurance denial can feel like a punch in the gut—especially when your loved one worked hard to leave financial protection behind. But a denial letter isn’t the end of the road. In many cases, it’s just the start of a legal process you have every right to pursue. Life insurance is a contract, and if you’re the named beneficiary, you’re entitled to enforce it—even if you weren’t the one who signed it or paid the premiums. Call us if you need a Maryland life insurance lawyer
Know Your Rights as a Beneficiary
When someone purchases a life insurance policy, they’re entering into a binding legal agreement. The insurer agrees to pay a death benefit if the policy terms are met. While you didn’t sign the contract, you are its intended recipient. That gives you standing to challenge a denial in court if necessary.
Too often, beneficiaries assume the insurer’s word is final. It’s not. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, and some will deny valid claims hoping you won’t push back. Don’t fall for it. If your claim was denied or stalled, you likely have legal options.
Should You Handle a Life Insurance Denial Alone?
Some beneficiaries attempt to resolve denials themselves, thinking it will save time or money. But insurance companies have legal teams reviewing every word of your appeal. Anything you say—even in good faith—can be misinterpreted or used against you. For example:
A vague explanation of medical history could be framed as a misrepresentation.
A well-meaning admission could be twisted into evidence of fraud.
Failure to follow procedural deadlines could permanently bar your claim.
Unless the issue is simple and the policy value is low, working with a life insurance attorney from the start gives you the best chance of success.
Step 1: Filing an Appeal With the Insurance Company
Most insurers have a built-in appeals process. This usually involves:
Completing a formal appeal request
Submitting a statement explaining why the denial is invalid
Providing supporting documents such as medical records or death certificates
However, don’t expect an objective review. Often, the same people who issued the denial are the ones reviewing your appeal. Without legal pressure, the insurer has little incentive to reverse its decision. An attorney can help ensure your appeal is persuasive, well-documented, and legally sound—creating a solid record in case further action is needed.
Step 2: Negotiating a Settlement
If your appeal is denied—or if you prefer not to wait—your lawyer may initiate direct negotiations with the insurer. This is often where the tide turns. Once insurers see that legal action is on the table, many become far more willing to settle.
Negotiation can be done informally or through mediation. A strong legal team will:
Present your case clearly and aggressively
Identify policy language in your favor
Pressure the insurer with evidence and precedent
Many denied claims are resolved at this stage—without going to court.
Step 3: Filing a Lawsuit
If negotiation fails, litigation is the next move. A lawsuit can compel the insurance company to:
Justify the denial in court
Produce internal documents
Face penalties for bad faith conduct, if applicable
Litigation takes time—often months or more than a year—but it can result in full payment plus interest, and in some cases, additional damages. Many insurers settle before trial once they realize the legal exposure.
What to Look for in a Life Insurance Lawyer
Hiring the right attorney is key. Look for a firm that:
Focuses exclusively on life insurance claim denials
Has a winning track record with denied or delayed claims
Works on contingency (you don’t pay unless they recover benefits)
Knows how to handle policies governed by ERISA or federal programs like FEGLI or SGLI
Make sure your lawyer can explain your legal options in plain language and has the resources to take on major insurers without backing down.
We Help Families Recover the Life Insurance They Deserve
At our firm, we’ve helped countless clients recover wrongfully denied life insurance benefits. Whether it’s a contestability issue, alleged misrepresentation, policy lapse, or vague exclusion clause, we’ve seen it all—and we know how to win.
Our team prepares a comprehensive legal brief with every appeal, often 100+ pages, and we’re ready to litigate if necessary. Insurers know we don’t back down—and that’s why most of our clients recover their full policy payout.
If your life insurance claim was denied or unreasonably delayed, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll review your denial, explain your rights, and fight to get you every dollar your loved one intended for you.