Wrongful Death Attorneys in Erie, PA The sudden death of a loved one is devastating, and when that death is caused by the negligence or misconduct of another person, you need a place to turn for counsel and support. The Elderkin Law Firm in Erie, PA has the knowledge, resources, and experience to obtain the compensation you need to move forward after a tragedy. If your loved one died because of an accident caused by negligence, you need the expertise of an experienced personal injury lawyer. We know that the death of a loved one is a life-changing experience for the surviving family members, and we make sure that this is kept in mind when preparing and presenting your claim. Nothing can diminish the crushing blow of the death of a loved one, but you are entitled to justice and compensation for your trauma. Our lawyers are sensitive to the personal needs of our clients during this troubling time, and our goal is to help you through the legal process as easily as possible. What is a wrongful death claim? A wrongful death claim is just that -- a claim brought against someone who has caused another person's death through his or her wrongful conduct. Since the person who has died is no longer available to bring the claim on his or her own behalf, family members (or other designated representatives) must bring it for them. And the claims that may be brought include two broad categories: (1) claims to compensate the deceased person for his or her own injuries occurring prior to death; and (2) claims to compensate the surviving family members for their own monetary losses resulting from he death of their loved one. Calculating the economic cost of a death requires seasoned experts to determine the value of the deceased's contribution to the family finances had he or she lived. The value of the non-economic contribution of the victim, including emotional support of the surviving spouse and children, household duties, and more, must also be determined. Our attorneys have the experience and resources to make sure that you receive full compensation if you experience the loss of a loved one through the fault of another person. Our lawyers can help Northwestern Pennsylvania families whose loved ones suffered fatal accidents in: Motorcycle accidents Car crashes DUI accidents Construction site accidents Medical malpractice The wrongful death of a loved one is a devastating matter. Our personal injury lawyers handle all of the details of a wrongful death action so you can focus on taking care of your family. We make sure you are connected with the resources and services you need. We want to hear your case, we want to help you get the results that you deserve. Call our Erie, PA offices at 814-456-4000, send us an email at contact@elderkinlawfirm.com, or fill out one of the contact forms. Frequently Asked Questions If I’m under 18, can I file for a wrongful death claim? Yes, but you must do it through a parent or other guardian. Until you reach the age of eighteen, you are considered a minor under Pennsylvania law and are unable to commence legal proceedings on your own behalf. In most cases where a minor is a party, a parent, who is considered a natural guardian for the minor, will assert any claims on behalf of the minor. Where there is not a natural guardian to act, the Court may appoint a guardian ad litem ("for the suit"), who will act for the interests of the minor. What does a wrongful death lawsuit involve? Are there different considerations in cases involving the death of a child? Can I bring a wrongful death action if the deceased never held a job, for example, a stay-at-home mom? Ask a Question 456 West 6th Street Erie, Pennsylvania 16507 (814) 456-4000 2021 © Elderkin Law Firm All Rights Reserved · Disclaimer Powered by Epic Web Studios