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Pfeiffer Brown DiNicola & Frantz

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Schuylkill County Wrongful Death Attorneys

If you’ve lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim. Of course, no amount of compensation can replace a life. A wrongful death claim can provide financial stability, closure, accountability and justice for grieving families. At Pfeiffer Brown DiNicola & Frantz, our Pottsville wrongful death lawyers apply over 60 years of combined experience to guide clients through this process with compassion and care.

Founded in 1978, our firm has deep roots in Schuylkill County. We offer free consultations, charge no upfront costs and only get paid if we recover compensation for you.

What Is A Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death occurs when a person loses their life due to another party’s negligent, reckless or intentional actions. These claims can arise from a wide range of incidents, including:

Our Pottsville wrongful death lawyers have extensive experience handling a wide range of cases.

Who Can File A Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

The Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Act establishes who can file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for the financial and emotional losses caused by the death. The personal representative of the deceased’s estate has the initial opportunity to file a claim. Often, this is a family member. The proceeds from the claim are distributed to surviving family members such as spouses, children and parents. However, if the personal representative doesn’t file a claim within six months, surviving family members may file one.

Survival Actions In Pennsylvania

It’s common to file a survival action along with a wrongful death claim. A survival action covers damages the deceased could have claimed had they survived, including pain and suffering, lost wages, and medical expenses. Together, these claims address both the family’s losses and those impacting the decedent’s estate. Our team handles Schuylkill County wrongful death claims as well as survival actions.

Types Of Damages You Can Recover

Wrongful death lawsuits and survival actions can help families recover a variety of damages – more than those available in personal injury claims. These may include:

  • Medical expenses incurred prior to death
  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Loss of future income and benefits
  • Loss of companionship and consortium
  • Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased
  • Emotional suffering of surviving family members
  • Loss of parental guidance for minor children

Our team will work closely with you to identify all possible sources of compensation and build a case that reflects the full impact of your loss.

Proving Fault In A Wrongful Death Case

Establishing liability in a wrongful death case requires a thorough investigation and a clear demonstration of negligence. This may involve:

  • Reviewing accident reports and medical records
  • Interviewing witnesses
  • Consulting with experts in accident reconstruction, workplace safety or other fields
  • Identifying all responsible parties, including employers, drivers, manufacturers or property owners

Our attorneys understand the nuances of wrongful death lawsuits. They know how to build compelling cases that stand up in court or settlement negotiations.

Wrongful Death And Workers’ Compensation

If your loved one died in a work-related accident, you may be eligible for death benefits under Pennsylvania’s workers’ compensation system. These benefits can include:

  • Weekly payments to surviving dependents
  • Coverage of funeral expenses
  • Compensation for lost wages

Rob Frantz, one of our lead attorneys, is a certified workers’ compensation specialist. This is a rare distinction held by less than 1% of attorneys in Pennsylvania. His experience and knowledge are valuable assets, especially when wrongful death and workers’ comp claims intersect.

We’re Here To Help You Find Justice And Closure

Losing a loved one is devastating. Navigating the legal system during such a painful time is a burden you shouldn’t have to bear. Our Pottsville wrongful death lawyers are here to support you with empathy, experience and a commitment to results. Our contingency fees are lower than many other firms. Additionally, we offer reduced rates for cases involving union members and lump sum settlements.

Call us at 570-391-0199 or fill out a quick online contact form to schedule your free consultation.