Wrongful Death

Choose a Firm With a History of Excellence

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.

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

  • “The lawyers at this office and their staff, Mr. [Attorney] DeVere and [Paralegal] Stephanie, his assistant, became the voice I didn’t have after the accident. They were my points of light.”

    - Ms. D. Lopez

  • “You guys were so easy to work with. There was no stress and the whole process was done in a timely manner. I would recommend Metzger Wickersham to everyone. Such a pleasure.”

    - Sharon Balent

  • “Attorney Painter was simply amazing...My wife had been fighting SSI for over three years. Since working with Metzger Wickersham her stress and anxiety levels were 100% gone.”

    - Carlos Bonilla

  • “Outstanding in every way no one has ever helped me more in my entire life like this firm. I highly recommend. Thank you very much.”

    - Gary Klinger

  • “They helped me with my case on a motor vehicle accident. They were kind, understanding, professional, and got the job done. They explained things, talked me through stuff, and answered any questions I had!”

    - Ms. Brianna Marquis

  • “Thank you for going that extra mile.”

    - Joanne Brenizer

  • “They made everything stress free.”

    - Alexia Brodbeck

  • “Everyone here was very helpful and worked very hard. I have nothing but good things to say about Metzger Wickersham. Also I did want to mention that Andrea and Brad were amazing.”

    - Thomas Claytor

  • “They were always on top of things.”

    - Jessica P.

  • “Absolutely the best!”

    - Cheryl Ressler

Why Choose Metzger Wickersham?

  • Client-Focused & Results Driven

    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.

  • Dedicated Team

    When you trust us with your case, you get a FULL team of dedicated and experienced attorneys working to solve your case.

  • Decades of Experience

    Our team has had our doors open for over 130 years and we have roots dating back to 1888.

Demand the Justice You Deserve

We Are Here to Help
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.

Stay in the Know

Helpful News & Resources From Our Team