Reading Wrongful Death Attorneys

The law also provides a path for certain family members to take action if the personal representative does not. If the personal representative fails to file a lawsuit within six months of the death, any person entitled to recover damages may file the action directly. 

State law typically permits the following family members to bring a wrongful death claim in these scenarios:

• The surviving spouse
• The surviving children, including adult children
• The surviving parents

This provision is designed to protect the interests of the family and prevent administrative delays from blocking the path to justice. If necessary, our attorneys can clarify standing and guide an eligible member of your family through the filing process. 

Regardless of who legally brings the claim, the lawsuit ultimately serves the specific beneficiaries defined by statute: the surviving spouse, children, and/or parents of the deceased. Pennsylvania generally directs that any damages recovered in a wrongful death action belong to these specific family members.

What Is the Time Limit for Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania law imposes a strict two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death lawsuits. This means an eligible party only has two years from the date of your loved one’s passing to bring a claim. The courts generally dismiss any lawsuit filed after this statute of limitations expires, regardless of the case's merit. While this two-year period might appear substantial, the complex legal investigation, medical reviews, and estate administration required to prepare a strong case often consume a significant portion of this time.

Furthermore, this deadline creates specific urgency for personal representatives and eligible beneficiaries. Because the personal representative holds the exclusive right to bring a claim during the first six months, delays in appointing this individual effectively shorten the window available for the lawsuit. If the representative fails to file, and eligible family members must eventually initiate the action themselves, they enter the legal process with reduced time to prepare.

Securing legal representation early can help protect the integrity of your case. Our attorneys and investigators can prioritize the immediate preservation of physical evidence before it is lost and witness testimony before memories fade. Our firm’s team also includes estate planning lawyers who can advise on and assist with any complexities concerning the appointment of the personal representative of your loved one’s estate. 

What Compensation Is Available in a Wrongful Death Case?

The sudden loss of a family member tends to create immediate financial instability, especially if your loved one was the primary income earner. Our wrongful death attorneys can work to calculate the full extent of this economic impact to protect your family's long-term well-being. In addition to funeral costs, burial expenses, and your loved one’s final medical bills, we can assess lost future earnings, benefits, and the significant value of the guidance and companionship your loved one provided, among other applicable damages. We can also seek compensation for your family’s pain and suffering. 

No dollar amount can replace your loved one, but we aim to secure a financial recovery that establishes a stable foundation for your family. We can collaborate with financial analysts and economic experts to substantiate every aspect of the claim. Our lawyers are prepared to confront insurance companies directly and refuse to accept settlement offers that fail to address your losses and future needs. If necessary, we can fight for you in court if that is what it takes to secure a just outcome.

We may also be able to pursue a survival action alongside a wrongful death claim to provide a complete measure of justice. While a wrongful death claim addresses your family's losses, a survival action continues the legal rights that your loved one had before passing. It can secure the damages your loved one would have been able to receive had they lived. 

Do not wait to explore your family’s legal options if you lost a loved one due to negligence, recklessness, or an intentional, violent act. Call (215) 610-3440 or contact us online to request a free case evaluation now.