Wrongful Death Claims: What Families Should Know About Pursuing Justice for a Lost Loved One
Losing a loved one because of another’s negligence is one of the most devastating experiences any family can endure. Beyond emotional pain, the sudden financial and practical consequences can feel overwhelming. In these moments, knowing your legal rights becomes essential. At The Sharma Law Office, we represent families in Pennsylvania and New Jersey who have lost loved ones due to wrongful acts, helping them pursue accountability and financial relief through the legal system.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims
A wrongful death claim arises when someone’s negligent or intentional actions cause another person’s death. These claims aim to compensate the surviving family members for both financial and emotional losses. Common causes include motor vehicle collisions, medical malpractice, defective products, and unsafe property conditions.
Each state has specific laws governing who can file and what damages are recoverable. In Pennsylvania, wrongful death suits are typically filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate on behalf of the surviving family. Damages may include funeral expenses, lost future income, and the emotional suffering endured by family members. Working with a wrongful death attorney ensures the claim complies with all statutory deadlines and evidentiary requirements.
If you need clarity about what qualifies as a wrongful death case, explore our practice areas page to learn how we assist families in similar circumstances.
The Importance of Proving Negligence
For a wrongful death case to succeed, the claimant must establish negligence, meaning that the responsible party failed to act with reasonable care, directly leading to the death. This involves proving four legal elements: duty of care, breach of duty, causation, and damages.
For example, if a driver was distracted by a phone and caused a fatal crash, that breach of care would likely establish negligence. Similarly, if a hospital failed to provide timely treatment, the resulting loss could be grounds for a claim. An experienced wrongful death lawyer in Philadelphia can investigate thoroughly, gather vital records, and work with forensic specialists to present strong evidence.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), unintentional injuries are among the leading causes of death in the United States, underscoring how often negligence contributes to preventable fatalities.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Eligibility to file varies by jurisdiction, but immediate family members such as spouses, children, or parents are generally allowed to pursue claims. If no direct relatives are available, the deceased’s estate may take legal action instead.
In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, only the estate’s personal representative may initiate a lawsuit, but any settlement or judgment is distributed among eligible beneficiaries. This process can become legally complex when multiple family members are involved, which is why consulting a personal injury attorney in Philadelphia early can help prevent procedural errors that might delay or reduce compensation.
Families facing uncertainty about filing should visit our About Us page to understand how our attorneys approach each case with diligence and compassion.
The Types of Compensation Available
Compensation in wrongful death cases extends beyond immediate expenses. Economic damages may include medical costs incurred before death, funeral expenses, and lost income that the deceased would have provided. Non-economic damages address pain, suffering, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.
Courts may also award punitive damages in cases involving extreme recklessness or intentional harm. These awards are designed to punish the responsible party and discourage similar misconduct. A qualified personal injury lawyer can accurately assess the full scope of damages and present them in a way that reflects the depth of your loss.
If you are struggling with the financial effects of a wrongful death, reach out through our contact page to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your legal options.
How Legal Representation Can Make a Difference
Insurance companies and defendants often attempt to limit their liability in wrongful death cases. They may dispute the cause of death or question the financial value of the loss. Having legal representation ensures that your family’s rights remain protected throughout negotiation and litigation.
At The Sharma Law Office, we conduct in-depth investigations, collaborate with experts, and handle communications with insurers so that families can focus on healing. We also work on contingency, meaning clients owe no attorney fees unless compensation is recovered.
Pursuing Justice with Compassion and Commitment
No amount of money can replace a loved one, but holding negligent parties accountable can bring a measure of closure and financial security. The Sharma Law Office stands beside families in Lehigh Valley, Philadelphia, and across New Jersey, offering guidance and advocacy when it matters most.
If your family has suffered the wrongful death of a loved one, contact us today to learn how our firm can help you pursue justice and rebuild with confidence.