WRONGFUL DEATH LAW AT HUGHES & MASHINSKI, P.C.
The only thing worse than losing a loved one, is losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. Many people in that situation may want to seek justice on their loved one’s behalf. Of course, no amount of money can ever make up for the loss of a loved one and thinking about that at such an emotional time can be painful. But monetary compensation can alleviate the financial burdens you may be facing. Therefore, contact Hughes & Mashinski. Let us handle the entire process, leaving you time to focus on you and your family.
Wrongful Death Law in Pennsylvania
Title 42, Chapter 83 of the Pennsylvania General Statutes, Section 8301 defines a wrongful death as one that is “caused by the wrongful act or neglect or unlawful violence or negligence of another.” A wrongful death claim may be filed even if a criminal case has already been filed in the state, based on the circumstances surrounding the same death. A wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. Like other states, Pennsylvania sets a time limit, or “statute of limitations,” on wrongful death and other injury claims filed in its court system. In Pennsylvania, a wrongful death claim must be filed within two years of the date of the deceased person’s death.
A wrongful death claim that is not filed within this two-year time period will not be heard by the court.
Damages in a PA Wrongful Death Case
In a civil case like a wrongful death lawsuit, the defendant’s liability is expressed solely in terms of money damages. Damages that may be available in a successful Pennsylvania wrongful death claim include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Hospital and medical expenses
- Estate administration expenses
- Lost wages and benefits
- Compensation for the loss of services
- Compensation for pain and suffering
Wrongful Death Questions
Wrongful death claims can be complicated and overwhelming. Let the experts at Hughes & Mashinski handle the legalese for you. We deal with commonly asked wrongful death questions like:
- When does a wrongful death claim apply?
- How are wrongful death settlements distributed?
- How do court determine what a person’s future earnings would have been?
Why Hughes & Mashinski for Your Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
In the wake of a beloved family member’s death, the last thing anyone wants to deal with is a time-consuming, complex legal process. You need a compassionate, experienced wrongful death attorney to advocate for you and your family. At Hughes & Mashinski, our Plains-based attorneys can provide you with the help and support you need during this painful time. Our lawyers have decades of combined experience and will zealously advocate for their clients in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Call H&M at 570-823-0101 for a free consultation today.