Philadelphia Wrongful Death Attorney

We Fight for Justice for Grieving Families in Philadelphia

At Quinn Law Group, LLC, our Philadelphia wrongful death lawyer is a knowledgeable, experienced, and compassionate advocate for grieving families. With a deep understanding of the wrongful death laws in Pennsylvania, we take on all types of fatal accident cases. If you lost a loved one in an accident caused by negligence, our team will fight for justice, accountability, and compensation. Contact us today for a free case review with a top Philadelphia wrongful death attorney. 

An Overview of Wrongful Death Claims in Pennsylvania

Under commonwealth law (42 Pa. C.S.A. § 8301), a wrongful death claim arises when a person’s death is caused by the negligent (or intentionally wrongful) actions/inactions of another party. It is a type of civil legal claim that allows family members of the victim to seek justice. A wrongful death lawsuit could be brought against a person, a driver, a property owner, a business, or even a government entity. Some of the most common fatal accidents/incidents that lead to wrongful death claims in Philadelphia include: 

• Car crashes; 
• Semi-truck wrecks; 
• Pedestrian collisions; 
• Motorcycle wrecks; 
• Fall accidents; 
• Deadly assaults; 
• Dangerous products; 
• Nursing home abuse; and
• Medical malpractice. 

Who Files the Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Philadelphia?

In Pennsylvania, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by a personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. That person is usually named in the deceased’s will. However, if there is no valid will, he or she will be appointed by the court. While the personal representative files the case, any damages awarded go to the beneficiaries under Pennsylvania’s wrongful death statute—typically the surviving spouse, children, and/or parents of the deceased.

Know the Statute of Limitations: Wrongful Death

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is two years from the date of the person’s death. That is a strict deadline that must be followed. Otherwise, the right to seek compensation may be permanently lost. It is important to act quickly. Not only are there few exceptions to the deadline, but relevant evidence can quickly fade. Be proactive: Consult with a Philadelphia wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. 

Recovering the Maximum Wrongful Death Compensation for Philadelphia Families

Although no amount of financial compensation will ever truly be enough to make things right after a fatal accident in Philadelphia, grieving families need justice and the maximum financial support. Compensation is the primary remedy that is available through a wrongful death lawsuit. In Pennsylvania, compensation for a wrongful death claim may include both economic and non-economic damages. 

• Economic damages cover funeral and burial costs, medical expenses related to the final injury, lost wages, and the value of household services the deceased provided.
• Non-economic damages compensate surviving family members for the loss of companionship, comfort, and emotional support.

How Our Philadelphia Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help

The loss of a close family member to a fatal accident is a terrible, heartbreaking tragedy. At Quinn Law Group, LLC, we know that nothing will ever truly be sufficient to make things right. Our team also knows that your family needs justice and financial support. Wrongful death lawyer Sean Quinn is a nationally-recognized, trial-tested lawyer. We have a proven record of client testimonials and case results. With blue-collar roots in the area, Attorney Quinn is a devoted advocate for the people who need help the most. We hold big corporations and large insurance companies accountable. Among other things, our Philadelphia wrongful death lawyer is ready to: 

• Listen to your story and answer questions about your case; 
• Investigate the fatal accident in Philadelphia, gathering evidence to prove liability; 
• Handle wrongful death claims paperwork and insurance settlement talks; and
• Develop a comprehensive strategy driven to get your family justice and compensation. 

Wrongful Death Claims in Philadelphia: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When Should I Speak to a Philadelphia Wrongful Death Lawyer?

Right away. Wrongful death cases are complicated. It is normal to feel heartbroken, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do after a family member’s fatal accident. An experienced Philadelphia wrongful death lawyer can handle all of your legal needs while you focus on healing. 

Is a Wrongful Death Case a Criminal Case?

No, a wrongful death case is a civil claim. It is filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate to seek financial compensation for the losses suffered by surviving family members. The goal is not to punish the defendant with jail time, but instead recover compensation for the surviving families. However, the same incident can sometimes lead to both a criminal case (filed by the state) and a civil wrongful death case (filed by the estate). For example, a fatal DUI crash in Philadelphia will often lead to criminal charges along with a wrongful death lawsuit. 

What is a Survival Action Claim in Pennsylvania?

A survival action claim in Pennsylvania is a type of legal case that effectively continues the personal injury claim the deceased would have been eligible to file if they had survived. It is brought by the personal representative of the estate. Unlike a wrongful death claim, a survival action is about what the deceased person suffered, not the losses of the surviving family. The compensation recovered goes to the estate, not directly to family members. Though, of course, the family is often the ultimate beneficiary of the claim. 

Will My Wrongful Death Case Go to Court?

It might—but settlements are more common than verdicts in wrongful death cases. Settling can save time, reduce legal costs, and provide closure more quickly. However, if there is a dispute over liability or the value of damages, litigation may be required to get justice. A trial-tested Philadelphia wrongful death attorney can protect your rights. 

Contact Our Philadelphia Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

At Quinn Law Group, LLC, our Philadelphia wrongful death attorney is a compassionate, experienced advocate for justice. If your loved one was killed in an accident caused by negligence, we are here to help. Give us a call now or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. With an office in Philadelphia, we handle wrongful death cases throughout the region. 

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