Best Wrongful Death Lawyer in Pittsburgh

You can potentially pursue a wrongful death lawsuit when your loved one passed away as the result of someone else’s deliberate or negligent conduct. A wrongful death lawsuit is designed to provide financial support for family members, dependents, and others who relied on financial support from the deceased victim.

In Pittsburgh, PA, the personal representative named in the will is generally responsible for filing a wrongful death lawsuit, which could be: 

• The spouse of the decedent
• A child of the deceased
• Another close relative such as a sibling or parent
• Those relying on financial support from the decedent
• Another individual named in the will

If there is no will, a close relative such as the spouse would generally file suit. If there are no surviving family members, the court can appoint a personal representative. 

If your loved one has passed away and you are unsure of your next best steps, one of our lawyers can advise you on whether you could file a wrongful death lawsuit.

Relatives typically initiate wrongful death litigation to pursue compensation for their financial losses and emotional anguish. Damages can include:  

• Hospitalization and other medical expenses before death
• Funeral and burial costs
• Lost income and lost benefits from the deceased
• Estate administration expenses
• Loss of companionship
• Emotional distress
• Loss of household services from the deceased

Depending on the facts of your individual case, your damages could differ, or you could be entitled to additional compensation.

Although the actions leading to wrongful death can be criminal, a wrongful death lawsuit is a civil and not a criminal case in Pennsylvania. In a criminal case such as murder, the charges are brought by the government. In contrast, with a wrongful death case, the charges are filed by a family member or representative of the estate.

Another notable difference between a civil case and a criminal case is that criminal law is punitive in nature and primarily seeks to punish the wrongdoer. So-called “tort-law”, on the other hand, is designed to provide surviving family members with a way to recover financial compensation. In other words, while the responsible party could be criminally prosecuted, you will also have to file a civil lawsuit to pursue compensation.

No two wrongful death cases are the same. Settlement amounts can depend on a variety of factors, including but not limited to:  

• The age and health of the victim before death
• Whether the fault for an incident is clearly established
• The value of household services the deceased would have provided
• Medical and funeral expenses

When your loved one suffers a wrongful death, the settlement amount should reflect the loss and grief you are experiencing and the importance of your loved one’s life. 

Our wrongful death attorneys fight tirelessly for the compensation surviving family members need to continue with their lives after a heartbreaking loss.

Timely action can be essential if you are considering filing a wrongful death lawsuit. In Pennsylvania, a wrongful death case should generally be filed within two years of the victim’s death. If you have a case against a government entity, the time to file a suit could be even shorter. Filing too late could result in your case being thrown out.

It is understandable that when a loved one passes away, filing a lawsuit against the responsible party may not be your priority. However, the sooner you consult with a wrongful death attorney, the sooner you could recover damages that can help you and your family get through an upsetting, stressful, and expensive time.

Generally, you do not incur any out-of-pocket fees when hiring a wrongful death attorney. If you win your case, the attorney takes a percentage of the proceeds as their fee. If there is no recovery, you do not have to pay your attorney. Some wrongful death attorneys charge their clients upfront for any miscellaneous costs involved in bringing the suit, such as court filing expenses or expert witness fees.

We believe that a client’s financial situation should not bar them from getting quality legal representation. When you work with Morgan & Morgan, you have access to the best wrongful death lawyers in Pittsburgh, PA, and do not pay a dime out of your own pocket. We only get paid unless and until we win and you recover a payout. 

Handling a wrongful death case without adequate legal representation can be full of pitfalls. However, Morgan & Morgan’s determined wrongful death lawyers are here to help. You do not have to go it alone. 

We Can Navigate the Legal Process for You

Our attorneys have assisted countless clients to recover what they deserve and have detailed knowledge of the legal process. They can be by your side every step of the way. Our attorneys know the evidence required to prove your case. They can deal with all the paperwork involved with filing a suit and ensure all deadlines are met. 

We Know the Value of Your Claim

Not knowing what your wrongful death lawsuit is worth can lead to leaving money on the table in settlement negotiations. Our attorneys can evaluate your situation and calculate your damages accordingly.

We Can Take Your Case to Trial

Our determined and tenacious attorneys can negotiate strongly for a fair settlement on your behalf. However, they do not shy away from taking your case to trial to fight for what you deserve, if necessary. 

We understand that losing a loved one suddenly is a huge shock. Filing a lawsuit to get justice and compensation can feel overwhelming during such a difficult time. However, seeking legal advice is critical when losing a family member due to another’s fault, as you could be entitled to compensation. While no amount of money could ever make up for the loss of your loved one, compensation can help you move on with your life and avert potential financial hardship. 

Finding the best wrongful death lawyers in Pittsburgh, PA, has never been easier. Our compassionate attorneys want to help you recover your due. Contact us now to get clear on your legal options and the next best steps in a free and confidential case review.