Scranton Wrongful Death Attorneys

Closure & Compensation Through Legal Action

Nothing can prepare you for the heartbreak of losing a loved one to someone else’s mistakes. Fellerman & Ciarimboli Law PC can prepare you for the legal headaches and challenges ahead when you file a wrongful death claim in your loved one’s honor, though. As a local wrongful death law firm with a history in the Scranton area, we proudly show our clients personalized and compassionate representation that makes exploring their legal options as comfortable as possible.

Many people who come to our doors wonder if filing a wrongful death claim is worth the fight against the insurance companies that will answer the claim. We want to assure you that it is. A successful wrongful death claim can help bring a sense of closure that allows you to move forward emotionally and also financial stability that lets you focus on your grieving, not your bills.

Contact Fellerman & Ciarimboli Law PC to arrange a free consultation with our Scranton wrongful death lawyers.

Wrongful Death Under Legal Definitions

Pennsylvania law defines wrongful death as a death that is caused by negligent or unlawful actions. Negligence is a broad enough term to encompass inaction as well. Effectively, any death that could have been avoided or prevented if more care had been taken, it is a wrongful death.

Some of the leading causes of wrongful deaths in Scranton include:

• Car accidents
• Slip and fall accidents suffered by elders
• Truck accidents
• Medical malpractice incidents

You can also think of a wrongful death claim as a postmortem personal injury claim. If the deceased was in an accident that would have warranted a personal injury claim, then it will warrant a wrongful death claim filed by others.

Can You File a Wrongful Death Claim?

You do not get the right to file a wrongful death claim just because you know someone who died in an accident that could have been prevented. Instead, Pennsylvania law requires a wrongful death claim to be filed by the representative of the deceased’s estate, such as a relative named in the deceased’s will. If no representative has been named, then a court can assign one. Furthermore, parties who will benefit from the estate – such as an inheritor – can file a wrongful death claim if the representative of the estate does not file a claim within 6 months of the deceased’s passing.

Damages in Wrongful Death Claims

There will never be enough money or valuables to replace a lost loved one. Yet knowing you are financially stable after your loved one passes away too soon is also something that cannot be quantified with a price tag. We highly encourage you to discuss your wrongful death case with our wrongful death attorneys in Scranton to get a full picture of what damages you might be able to receive and why.

In a wrongful death claim, you could get compensation for:

• Medical care related to the deceased’s final hours or days
• Funeral and burial costs
• Wages the deceased would have earned in their lifetime
• Loss of household support and services
• Loss of companionship and care
• And more

How Long Does It Take to Settle a Wrongful Death Suit?

Because they involve so many processes and moving parts, wrongful death settlements can take years to reach, even if your case does not end up going to trial.

While this may be daunting to think about, it's important to remember that by pursuing a wrongful death claim you can not only obtain the compensation you and your family deserve, but you can also hold the guilty party responsible for their negligent actions.

Compassionate Legal Guidance When It Counts

Rushing into a wrongful death claim can make the grieving process more painful. At Fellerman & Ciarimboli Law PC, our wrongful death lawyers in Scranton are intentional whenever making a move to progress a case. We want to ensure that you and your family are comfortable with your case as it develops, even if that means you want to be as hands-off as possible. Our team can step in and handle every aspect of your case if you prefer, freeing up your time and mind to grieve your loss.

Whenever you are ready, dial (877) 989-4878 to learn more.

Related Reading:

• Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Claim in Pennsylvania?
• What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Pennsylvania?