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Lancaster Wrongful Death Attorney

Providing Compassionate Legal Counsel to Grieving Families

Losing a loved one is devastating, especially if the loss is unexpected and resulted because of someone else’s reckless actions. If negligence resulted in the loss of your loved one, you may be able to recover damages by filing a wrongful death suit.

At Metzger Wickersham, our Lancaster wrongful death attorneys are here to help you. We understand that you are going through a difficult time emotionally and financially, which is why we offer compassionate, personalized legal assistance to grieving families. Known for our aggressive negotiation and litigation skills, you can trust our attorneys to work tirelessly to fight for your right to compensation.

Contact our firm online or at (888) 286-2850 to learn how we can help you. Your initial consultation is free. 

What is a Wrongful Death Claim?

Under 42 Pa. Stat. and Cons. Stat. § 8301, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the wrongful actions, neglect, or unlawful negligence or violence of another person. 

Wrongful death suits can arise from:

  • Car or truck accident
  • Medical malpractice incidents
  • Intentional acts (crimes)
  • Construction accidents

A wrongful death lawsuit allows the surviving family of the deceased person to pursue compensation from the negligent party.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Suit?

In Pennsylvania, a personal representative of the deceased may file a wrongful death claim on behalf of those seeking compensation. This representative is typically the executor of the decedent’s estate (who is named in the decedent’s will or appointed by the state). However, if the executor fails to file a claim within 6 months of the date of death, any beneficiaries may file the a wrongful death claim.

The beneficiaries of a wrongful death lawsuit in Pennsylvania are:

  • Spouse
  • Children
  • Parents of the deceased

The beneficiaries of a wrongful death claim do not have to be residents of Pennsylvania in order to file a claim. Only the deceased must have resided in the state.

How Is Wrongful Death Legally Defined in Pennsylvania?

Under 42 Pa. Stat. and Cons. Stat. § 8301, a wrongful death occurs when a person dies due to the wrongful actions, neglect, or unlawful negligence or violence of another person. Wrongful death suits can arise from:

  • Car or truck accident
  • Medical malpractice incidents
  • Intentional acts (crimes)
  • Construction accidents

A wrongful death lawsuit allows for surviving family members (or the decedent’s estate) to receive financial compensation. While no amount of money will excuse the defendant’s actions or ease your grief, it can help ease the financial burden of the unexpected loss.

Claimants can receive compensation to cover out-of-pocket expenses, such as:

  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Hospital and medical bills (obtained before death)
  • Loss of income and/or benefits
  • Estate administration expenses
  • Loss of the deceased’s comfort, guidance, or household services

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Suit?

In Pennsylvania, a personal representative must file a wrongful death claim on behalf of those seeking compensation. This representative is typically the executor of the decedent’s estate (who is named in the decedent’s will or appointed by the state). However, if the executor fails to file a claim within 6 months of the date of death, any beneficiaries may file the claim on behalf of all of the decedent’s beneficiaries. It is also important to note that wrongful death suits must be filed within two years of the deceased’s death.

Contact Our Lancaster Wrongful Death Attorneys Today

At Metzger Wickersham, we understand how difficult it is to navigate the grieving process. While you take care of yourself (and your family), our legal team can handle the case legalities and help you:

  • File your claim
  • Collect evidence (testimonies, medical records, photos/videos, etc.)
  • Calculate your damages
  • Understand your legal options

Let our Lancaster wrongful death attorneys advocate on your behalf. Schedule your free case consultation online today or call (888) 286-2850.  

Success Stories

A History of Happy Clients
  • "You guys have been more than kind and understanding and respectful to me. For that I am greatly appreciative. Thank you for everything you did and are doing."
    Donna S.
  • "My wife had been fighting SSI for over three years. Since working with Metzger Wickersham her stress and anxiety levels were 100% gone. They were always in communication with us, guiding us through ..."
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  • "I worked with [Attorney] Zachary Campbell & [Paralegal] Tammy Dagrosa & they were AMAZING! They helped me win my case & handle my medical debt from my accident! Thanks to them, my daughter & I will be ..."
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  • "Was a slow process because of the insurance company. They did a great job for me and got a good settlement! Better than I was expecting."
    Jerry C.
  • "I was beyond pleased with the way my case was handled. Each time I either called or emailed the office either [Attorney] Lori or [Paralegal] Kara responded quickly. I had many questions and I also ..."
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  • "This firm goes above above and beyond for their clients. The process was unbelievably simple on my end and my atty kept me updated the entire time. Will use them again in future if ever necessary and ..."
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  • "[Paralegal] Emily kept up to date emailing and getting information and [Attorney] Cat did a wonderful job representing me and explained everything perfectly."
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  • "Troy was a pleasure to work with from the first day of meeting him to our last meeting. Troy always kept in touch even if it was just to say hello and see how I was. best lawyer!"
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  • "Metzger Wickersham’s [Attorney] Zach was so easy to work with. His professionalism is unmatched to any other attorney I have ever had to deal with. He always kept me informed on any new information ..."
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  • "It is hard to express in words how grateful I am that I chose Metzger Wickersham to help me with my case. [Attorney] Andrea, [Paralegal] Shawn (Wilkes Barre Pa), [Attorney] Zach, [Paralegal] Melanie, ..."
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