Life Insurance Lawyer Columbia SC
"Life Insurance Lawyers for Columbia, SC – The Lassen Law Firm" In Columbia, the vibrant capital of South Carolina, celebrated for its rich history, bustling cultural scene, and Southern charm, navigating life insurance claims can still be a frustrating and overwhelming process—especially when benefits are unfairly delayed or denied. At The Lassen Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping families and individuals in Columbia secure the financial protection they deserve. Whether you’re near the historic Congaree Vista, the scenic Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, or anywhere across Richland County, we provide trusted legal expertise and personalized care every step of the way. Our experienced and trusted South Carolina life insurance lawyers are here to help.
With a nationwide reputation for recovering hundreds of millions in life insurance claims, The Lassen Law Firm delivers compassionate advocacy, relentless representation, and trusted results for Columbia residents seeking justice in insurance disputes.
2025 Columbia SC Denied Life Insurance Claims
- John Hancok interpleader case $103,000.00
- State Farm Life sickness exclusion $49,000.00
- American Fidelity beneficiary dispute $71,000.00
- Mutual of Omaha misrepresentation $500,000.00
- Ohio National alcohol exclusion $29,000.00
- Colombia SC life insurance claim $80,000.00
Questions About Life Insurance Claims in Columbia
Can a life insurance company in Columbia deny a claim because the insured didn’t disclose prior treatment for high blood pressure?
Yes, especially if the omission occurred during the contestability period and the insurer deems it material. However, if the condition didn’t contribute to the cause of death or was not material to the insurer’s decision to issue the policy, the denial may be challenged.
Does South Carolina law revoke a former spouse’s right to collect life insurance after divorce in Columbia?
Yes, South Carolina law generally revokes an ex-spouse's beneficiary status after divorce unless the policyholder reaffirms the designation in writing. However, for policies governed by ERISA, federal law may still honor the original designation unless the beneficiary is formally changed.
What is an interpleader, and how can it affect a Columbia life insurance claim?
An interpleader is a legal action filed by the insurer when multiple parties claim the same life insurance benefit. In Columbia, the court will determine who is entitled to the payout, and the insurer avoids liability for paying the wrong party.
Can a policy lapse be contested in Columbia if the insured missed a payment while hospitalized?
Yes, if the insurer failed to follow proper procedures, such as sending a valid lapse notice or honoring the grace period, the lapse may be invalid. Legal action can often be taken to reinstate the policy and recover the benefits.
Can a life insurance claim be denied in Columbia if the insured died during a felony act?
Yes, many life insurance policies contain exclusions for deaths related to illegal activity. However, the insurer must prove that the felony directly caused the death. If the death was not directly linked to the crime, the claim may still be valid.
Can a life insurance claim be delayed in Columbia due to foreign death documentation?
Yes, delays may occur, but these can often be resolved by submitting translated death certificates, consular reports, or other supporting legal documents. Legal assistance can help expedite the process and ensure the insurer accepts the documentation.
Can suicide result in a denied life insurance claim in Columbia?
Suicide may lead to a denial if it occurs within the policy’s exclusion period, typically within the first two years. After that period, suicide is usually covered unless another exclusion applies. If the cause of death is unclear, it may be possible to challenge the denial.
Can a beneficiary form be invalidated in Columbia if there’s evidence it was forged?
Yes, if a beneficiary form is forged or altered without the insured’s consent, it can be challenged. Courts may rely on forensic analysis and witness testimony to determine the validity of the form and restore the correct beneficiary.
What happens if the Columbia insurer claims the application was fraudulent?
The insurer must provide evidence that the false information was intentional and materially impacted the underwriting decision. If the misstatement was minor or unrelated to the cause of death, the policy may not be voided.
Can a will override the beneficiary designation on a life insurance policy in Columbia?
No. South Carolina law mandates that life insurance proceeds go to the named beneficiary on the policy, not to someone specified in the will, unless the estate is named as the beneficiary or the designation is successfully contested in court.
What if the insured had group life insurance through work and didn’t convert it after leaving their job in Columbia?
If the employer failed to inform the insured about their right to convert group coverage to an individual policy, the employer or insurer may be liable. Legal action can often recover the benefits in cases like these, particularly under ERISA regulations.
How does ERISA impact denied life insurance claims in Columbia?
ERISA governs most employer-sponsored policies and supersedes state laws, including South Carolina’s beneficiary rules. ERISA dictates how claims and appeals must be handled, often imposing strict deadlines and making it more challenging to contest denials.
Can prescription drug use be used to deny a life insurance claim in Columbia?
Prescription drug use may lead to a denial if the policy excludes coverage for certain medications, or if the drug use directly contributed to the death. However, if the drug use was prescribed and unrelated to the cause of death, the denial may be contested.
Can a beneficiary change be challenged in Columbia if it was made while the insured was ill or incapacitated?
Yes, beneficiary changes made when the insured was incapacitated, mentally impaired, or under undue pressure can be legally challenged. Evidence of cognitive decline or influence from others can be used to restore the previous beneficiary.
Can life insurance benefits be denied in Columbia due to lack of complete documentation?
Life insurance claims may be temporarily delayed if documentation is missing, but once all necessary paperwork is provided, the insurer must act. If the insurer continues to delay without justification, legal action may be needed to compel payment.
Can a life insurance policy be rescinded near the time of death in Columbia due to alleged fraud?
Insurers may attempt to rescind policies based on fraud allegations, but they must prove that the misrepresentation was intentional and materially impacted their risk assessment. If the fraud claim is weak or unfounded, the rescission may be overturned in court.
Can a high-risk activity like off-road motorcycling result in a denied claim in Columbia?
Yes, if the policy excludes high-risk activities like off-road motorcycling and the insured failed to disclose participation. However, if the exclusion is vague or the insurer was aware of the activity and continued coverage, the denial may be contested.
What if the death certificate in a Columbia claim says “undetermined cause of death”?
If the cause of death is undetermined, insurers may delay or deny the claim. However, autopsy results, medical records, and expert opinions can clarify the cause and help move the claim forward.
Can a life insurance claim be denied in Columbia if the beneficiary is suspected of causing the insured’s death?
Yes, under South Carolina’s slayer statute, a beneficiary who intentionally causes the insured’s death is barred from receiving the death benefit. A civil court can determine eligibility based on the evidence, even without a criminal conviction.
How long do I have to sue after a life insurance denial in Columbia?
In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for breach of contract is generally three years. However, for ERISA-regulated policies, the time limit may be much shorter, so it’s crucial to seek legal advice immediately after a claim denial.
For more information on insurance regulations and consumer protections in South Carolina, you can visit the South Carolina Department of Insurance. Additionally, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers nationwide insurance resources.