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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
  • "I was involved in a car accident (not at fault), that seemed like it would be straightforward. The at-fault driver accepted fault and so did their insurance company. The problem was that they wanted ..."
    M.H.
  • "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 ..."
    Former Client
  • "Very happy with our experience would highly recommend them Thank you Zack Campbell"
    Diana B.
  • "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 ..."
    Cindy
  • "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, ..."
    Patricia L.
  • "[Attorney] Zach and [Paralegal] Amber were beyond helpful. The attention to detail, constant communication and customer service is beyond appreciated. Would recommend to anyone that needs their help ..."
    Denise S.
  • "From the first interaction to the last, Attorney Zach Campbell and Paralegal Amber Freeman were professional and informative and provided great advice and guidance throughout the process. Never have ..."
    Crystal B.
  • "From the start, I could tell Attorney Campbell not only cared about my case but Me the person. To tell you the truth without his helpful advice, I'm not sure what the outcome would have been."
    Jill and Terry B.
  • "Attorney Zach Campbell and Paralegal Sandy Spade were great to work with. Zach is one of the best and most knowledgeable attorneys I have ever met."
    Janey G.
  • "Really appreciated working with Zach! He is very professional and helpful! Great experience! Thanks, MW!"
    Nikki C.
  • "We were very pleased with the performance, support, professionalism and determination of Mr. Zach Campbell and the law firm on our case. Every step along the way, we were kept informed of the progress."
    L.H.
  • "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 that came up in the course of his day."
    Cindy
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    You are more than just a case number. At our firm, we treat our clients like family and ensure you get the recovery you deserve.
  • 24/7 Representation
    The minute you need us, we are here to help. When you can't visit us, we'll visit you, and when you need answers, we'll give you solutions.
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    Our team has had our doors open for over 135 years and we have roots dating back to 1888.

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