Pottsville

Choose A Firm With A History of Excellence

LET OUR TEAM FIGHT FOR YOU

Pottsville, PA Wrongful Death Attorney

Providing Support and Legal Guidance in Your Time of Need

If you're dealing with the loss of a loved one due to someone else's negligence, the grief is overwhelming, and seeking justice can seem daunting. At Metzger Wickersham, we understand how traumatic and challenging this time can be and are dedicated to providing compassionate and professional legal guidance throughout the wrongful death process. 

 

Our team has decades of experience handling these cases, and we're prepared to fight for justice for your family. We understand that no amount of compensation can replace your loved one. Nevertheless, pursuing a wrongful death claim can help alleviate financial burdens and hold the negligent party accountable. At Metzger Wickersham, we're passionate about helping families seek justice in their time of need. 

 

If you suspect a loved one has suffered wrongful death due to another's negligence, contact us online or at (570) 580-4828 to schedule a consultation with a qualified attorney. 

Determining Liability in Wrongful Death Cases

Determining liability in wrongful death cases is often a complex process. However, it's crucial to hold the responsible party accountable and seek justice for your loved one. The first step in this process is proving negligence. This requires demonstrating that the defendant had a duty of care towards the deceased, breached that duty, and that this breach directly resulted in the death.

In wrongful death cases, evidence plays a pivotal role. This includes eyewitness testimonies, surveillance footage, police reports, and medical records. Working with a skilled attorney who understands the nuances of wrongful death cases is also essential. 

At Metzger Wickersham, we're committed to thoroughly investigating these cases and ensuring that families get the justice they deserve. Our team of experienced attorneys can help you navigate the legal complexities of wrongful death cases and seek justice for your loved one. 

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

In Pennsylvania, the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit is generally limited to the personal representative of the deceased person's estate. This is typically a close family member, such as a spouse, parent, or child. However, if a personal representative has not been appointed or is unwilling to file the suit, any beneficiary of the deceased person's estate may be able to file. It's important to remember that every case is unique, and the specific circumstances surrounding your loved one's death could impact who is eligible to file.

It's also important to note that wrongful death claims must be filed within a specific period, known as the statute of limitations. In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is generally two years from the date of the death. Failure to file a wrongful death claim within this period could mean losing the right to seek compensation altogether.

Navigating the legalities of a wrongful death claim can be complex and emotionally taxing. This is why it's crucial to work with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the process and fight for the justice your loved one deserves. At Metzger Wickersham, we have the knowledge, experience, and compassion to handle these sensitive cases and help you pursue the compensation you need to ease financial burdens during this difficult time.

Determining Compensation in a Wrongful Death Claim

Wrongful death cases can arise from various situations, including car accidents, workplace incidents, medical malpractice, and more. Each scenario necessitates a unique approach to building a solid case. Our experienced attorneys are adept at gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and presenting compelling arguments in court. 

We genuinely empathize with your loss and are committed to securing the maximum compensation for you. 

This could include: 

  • Funeral and burial expenses 
  • Loss of companionship and support
  • Pain and suffering endured by the deceased before death 
  • Loss of income or benefits that the deceased would have likely earned had they survived 
  • Medical bills incurred prior to death 
  • Punitive damages in cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm. 

The determination of compensation in a wrongful death claim is a multifaceted process, taking into account various factors associated with the death. The primary factor is the financial impact related to the loss of the deceased - this often includes any expected future earnings, benefits, or inheritance the deceased may have contributed to their family's welfare. 

The deceased's age, health condition before the incident, life expectancy, and earning capacity are all taken into account. The court also considers the deceased's character, including reputation and relationship with family members, as well as any tangible (like financial support) and intangible losses (like companionship and guidance) suffered by the surviving family members.

In some wrongful death cases, the court may also award punitive damages. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to restore the financial position of the victim's family, punitive damages are designed to punish the defendant for particularly egregious or reckless behavior and to deter similar conduct in the future. 

The amount awarded in punitive damages varies greatly and depends on the defendant's conduct and financial means. In all cases, however, the final compensation calculation is a complex process that requires professional legal guidance. At Metzger Wickersham, we are committed to ensuring our clients receive total and fair compensation for their losses.

Let Us Help Your Family Recover

At Metzger Wickersham, we're passionate about helping families seek justice for their loved ones. We understand that no amount of compensation can replace them, but we believe that families deserve competent and compassionate legal support to help them move forward. 

Do not hesitate to reach out to us. Time is of the essence in wrongful death cases due to Pennsylvania's statute of limitations. Delaying could jeopardize your chances of securing rightful compensation. We provide free consultations where we attentively listen to your situation and provide informed legal guidance. 

Our goal is to shoulder your legal burdens during this difficult time and let you focus on healing and remembering your loved one. Above all, we understand the importance of patience and sensitivity during these trying times. We know navigating the legal process can be confusing, especially when dealing with grief. That's why we're here to make the process as smooth as possible, offering support and guidance every step of the way.

Contact us today for a free consultation with a competent wrongful death attorney in Pottsville, PA, by calling (570) 580-4828 or filling out our online form.

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 ..."
    Carlos B.
  • "Everyone here was very helpful and worked very hard. I have nothing but good things to say about Metzger Wickersham. The team kept me well informed and updated at all times!"
    Thomas C.
  • "Being in an accident is overwhelming with injuries, loss of property, medical bills, and insurance hassles. I'm grateful for Metzger Wickersham's help during this trying time. The settlement results ..."
    Tanya W.
  • "Metzger Wickersham is the best. They helped us a lot and we made some great friends along the way. If you need a great group of lawyers, these are the people you want. They got all our medical bills ..."
    Kathy S.
  • "I was hurt in a bad accident and called Metzger Wickersham. Thankfully I did! They have been great, on top of things, and always doing their job well. Extremely pleased with my experience!"
    Kristen H.
  • "If you need help to right a wrong, I strongly recommend calling Metzger Wickersham. They took my case when others said I had none and found those responsible for my injury even after the moving ..."
    Tim K.
  • "I used Metzger Wickersham for a personal injury dog bite case. Attorney Love was great to work with and made the whole process smooth and painless. Everything was explained with detail, the team was ..."
    Jessica B.
  • "I thank you, Mr. Craig Love. You are a very honest person and explained every detail of my case."
    Elsie J.
  • "You all did a great job for me. You kept in contact with me through everything. I would recommend you to everyone."
    Ruth M.
  • "Thank you card from HHS KeyClub."
    HHS KeyClub
  • "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
  • "I had never dealt with a personal injury firm before, but my neighbor recommended that I contact Metzger Wickersham because they used that firm and were happy with the results. I talked to them and ..."
    Erik R.
  • "Scholarship thank you card."
    Lizzie
  • "Thank you note from a former client."
    Brenda R.
  • "Thank you card from the Golf Classic event."
    Joe
  • "They did wonderful thank you so much."
    Dan C.
  • "Thank you note from a former client."
    Previous Client
  • "Thank you card from a former client."
    Former Client
  • "Thank you note from the Food Pantry."
    Food Pantry
  • "I am absolutely and completely impressed with this firm. Them adding attorney, Lori Painter, to the team was a smart decision. Lori went above and beyond for me during my SS disability appeal process ..."
    Kimberly B. D.
  • "I worked with Troy and he was wonderful. Thoughtful, caring, always was there when I needed explaining or answers. Thanks, Troy."
    Jeremy L.
  • "Our goal was accomplished!"
    Debbie K.
  • "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 ..."
    Matthew R.
  • "Based upon my experience with the intake associate and especially with Attorney Andrea Staub, I strongly recommend this business. I was recently the victim of a devastating automobile accident that ..."
    Donna S.
  • "When I was hit by a car while riding my bicycle in Nov, of 2021, I learned that having a lawyer would be important to making sure all of my expenses would be compensated by the driver’s insurance. I ..."
    Leonard Z.
  • "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 ..."
    Alli G.
  • "[Attorney] Craig Love did a Great job for me"
    Jordan F.
  • "They kept me up to date on everything that was goin on with my case. Answered all my questions."
    Lori D.
  • "Very courtesy and understanding and helps you to the fullest therefore you anytime of the day to talk to you and answer your questions and I will use them again."
    Cindy R.
  • "Very happy with our experience would highly recommend them Thank you Zack Campbell"
    Diana B.
  • "They were great with communication and very helpful. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone and everyone!"
    Cheena W.
  • "[Paralegal] Emily kept up to date emailing and getting information and [Attorney] Cat did a wonderful job representing me and explained everything perfectly."
    Debra G.
  • "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!"
    Roxanne F.
  • "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.
  • "“My attorney and her team were wonderful. Very knowledgeable, understanding, and caring towards my needs during such a lengthy process. Would use again."
    Tracy O.
  • 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 135 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.