Life Insurance Lawyer Burlington Vt
"Life Insurance Lawyers for Burlington, VT – The Lassen Law Firm" In Burlington, a charming city celebrated for its vibrant arts scene, stunning lakeside views, and welcoming community, navigating life insurance claims can still be a challenging and frustrating process—especially when benefits are unfairly delayed or denied. At The Lassen Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping families and individuals in Burlington secure the financial peace of mind they deserve. Whether you’re near the lively Church Street Marketplace, the serene Lake Champlain Waterfront, or anywhere across Chittenden County, we provide trusted legal expertise and personalized care every step of the way. Our experienced and trusted Vermont life insurance lawyers are here to help.
With a nationwide record of recovering hundreds of millions in life insurance claims, The Lassen Law Firm delivers compassionate advocacy, relentless representation, and trusted results for Burlington residents seeking justice in insurance disputes.
2025 Burlington Vt Denied Life Insurance Claims
- Lincoln Heritage contestability period $110,000.00
- Heartland National coronavirus claim $52,000.00
- Global Atlantic interpleader claim $302,000.00
- Columbus Life alcohol exclusion $75,000.00
- American Family life exclusion $117,000.00
- WIlcac Life COVID claim denial $63,000.00
- Simplified Life beneficiary dispute $205,000.00
- Denied ADD claim Burlington Vermont $116,000.00
- Commonwealth Life lapse of policy $37,000.00
- Legal & General long delay $101,000.00
- Combined Life doctor visit not disclosed $13,000.00
- Union Labor Life contestable period $48,000.00
- Genworth beneficiary dispute $102,000.00
- Delta Life smoking not disclosed $15,000.00
Questions About Life Insurance Claims in Burlington, VT
Can a Burlington life insurance claim be denied if the insured didn’t disclose high blood pressure on the application?
Possibly, but only if the omission was material and intentional. If high blood pressure was controlled and unrelated to the cause of death, denial could often be challenged under Vermont law.
Does a divorce automatically remove an ex-spouse as a beneficiary in Burlington life insurance claims?
Yes, Vermont law revokes an ex-spouse’s right to proceeds after divorce unless the insured clearly reaffirmed them as the beneficiary later. ERISA-governed plans, however, may not follow this rule.
What happens if a Burlington insured dies and no beneficiary is listed on their life insurance policy?
The life insurance payout usually goes to the insured’s estate and must pass through Vermont’s probate system unless a contingent beneficiary had been properly named.
Can participation in backcountry skiing void a Burlington life insurance policy?
It can if the policy explicitly excludes deaths during hazardous sports. However, if exclusions are vague or missing, courts typically favor paying the claim.
How do Burlington insurers handle life insurance claims when the death occurs overseas?
They require foreign death certificates, sometimes embassy or consular verification, and translated documents. If provided correctly, the claim must be processed like a domestic death claim.
Can a forged beneficiary change form be challenged in Burlington?
Yes. If forgery, undue influence, or incapacity is proven—often with handwriting experts and medical testimony—a Vermont court can invalidate the change and restore the rightful beneficiary.
If a Burlington life insurance claim is delayed because of a pending autopsy, how long can the insurer wait?
Insurers can wait for reasonable documentation but must act promptly once cause of death is certified. Prolonged, unexplained delays could expose the insurer to bad faith penalties.
What if death occurs during a minor illegal act in Burlington, like trespassing?
Unless the policy clearly excludes any illegal acts and the illegal behavior directly caused the death, coverage typically still applies under Vermont law.
Real Scenario: Burlington life insurance denial overturned after "undetermined" cause of death
A man disappeared while kayaking. Initial death certificates listed "undetermined" cause. With rescue reports and evidence of drowning, the family forced full payout through court action.
Does a clerical error on a Burlington life insurance application void the policy?
No. Minor administrative mistakes or typos that don’t materially affect risk acceptance cannot justify denial.
Can death during participation in a non-sanctioned sports race affect a Burlington life insurance claim?
Possibly, but insurers must prove the policy excluded deaths from organized or extreme events. If exclusions are unclear, Vermont courts typically side with beneficiaries.
What happens if the insured was intoxicated at the time of death—can life insurance still pay in Burlington?
It depends. If the policy excludes deaths caused by intoxication and proof shows intoxication was the direct cause, denial may happen. Otherwise, payouts are often enforceable.
How long does a Burlington life insurance company have to pay once a claim is filed?
Vermont requires insurers to act reasonably and typically process claims within 60 days. Delays beyond that without justification can support a bad faith lawsuit.
If an employer promised life insurance coverage in Burlington but never enrolled the employee, is there recourse?
Yes. Families can sue the employer for negligent misrepresentation or breach of fiduciary duty to recover the promised death benefit.
Top Mistake: Burlington beneficiary waited too long to appeal ERISA life insurance denial
Under ERISA, missing the plan’s 180-day appeal window after denial meant the widow lost her chance to sue—even though the original denial was likely wrongful. Fast action matters.
Can a Burlington insurer deny an AD&D (Accidental Death & Dismemberment) claim by arguing a medical event caused the death?
They often try. We counter these arguments by gathering expert medical opinions showing trauma—not illness—was the primary cause.
Can experimental cancer treatment void life insurance in Burlington?
Only if the death is directly tied to experimental procedures and the policy clearly excludes such events. Courts tend to narrowly interpret these exclusions.
Can a life insurance payout be blocked in Burlington if the beneficiary is suspected of causing the death?
Yes. Under Vermont’s version of the slayer rule, a beneficiary found responsible for the insured’s death—even in civil court—cannot collect.
How long do Burlington families have to sue after a denied life insurance claim?
Vermont's statute of limitations for breach of contract claims is generally six years. However, ERISA policies often impose much shorter internal deadlines requiring appeals and lawsuits within a year or less.
Real Scenario: Burlington life insurance payout secured after denial due to "missing paperwork" excuse
An insurer delayed payout claiming "incomplete documentation." After sending proof of compliance and threatening bad faith litigation, full payment was made plus interest penalties.
For more information on insurance regulations and consumer protections in Vermont, you can visit the Vermont Department of Financial Regulation. Additionally, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers nationwide insurance resources.