Did someone else’s negligence cause the death of someone you love? Maryland law allows grieving families to hold the responsible party accountable by filing a wrongful death claim. A compassionate wrongful death lawyer in La Plata can guide you through the legal process of seeking financial compensation and justice for your loss.
At Trollinger Law LLC, our experienced team of professionals can provide trusted legal assistance and steady support during this painful time. Our approach is entirely client-focused, meaning we take the time to get to know you, not just the facts of your case. We understand you’ve been through a lot, and our empathy drives us to be aggressive advocates for the compensation and closure you deserve.
With millions recovered for injured Marylanders, our attorneys and firm include members recognized by Super Lawyers, the National Trial Lawyers Top 100, the Multi-Million-Dollar Advocates Forum, and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel’s Top One Percent.
Call or contact us today to arrange a free consultation with an experienced La Plata wrongful death attorney.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in La Plata, Maryland?
Maryland law defines wrongful death as a death caused by the wrongful act, neglect, or default of another. A wrongful death claim is an insurance claim or civil lawsuit seeking compensation from the party responsible for the loss.
In Maryland, certain family members may be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit when a loved one dies due to someone else’s actions. These cases are possible in situations where the victim could have filed a personal injury lawsuit if they had survived.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death Cases
A wrongful death case can arise from a number of tragic circumstances, including:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Slip-and-fall accidents
- Construction accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Medical malpractice
If your loved one died on the job, you may be entitled to receive death benefits through Maryland’s workers’ compensation system. In certain situations — such as when someone other than the employer caused the death — it may also be possible to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. Trollinger Law LLC handles both types of cases and can assess the legal avenues open to you.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
The surviving spouse, parents, or children of the deceased person can file a wrongful death claim under Maryland law. If none of these surviving family members exist, people who were substantially dependent on the deceased can file instead.
Damages Available in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
A claim or lawsuit for wrongful death can seek damages (compensation) for losses related to the deceased’s death, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Funeral expenses and burial costs
- The family’s emotional pain and suffering
- The family’s mental anguish
- Loss of advice, counsel, training, and guidance
- Loss of society, companionship, and comfort
- Marital, parental, and filial care and attention
Maryland law caps non-economic damages (e.g., pain and suffering, grief, and emotional distress) in wrongful death cases, with the specific amount increasing each year to adjust for inflation.
How a Wrongful Death Lawyer Can Help Your Family
The aftermath of a sudden loss can be overwhelming, and taking legal action on top of it all may feel impossible. An experienced wrongful death attorney can lighten the load by handling all aspects of your case, giving you space to mourn without having to worry about deadlines, gathering evidence, or dealing with insurance companies.
When you hire Trollinger Law LLC, you get an ally who can:
- Listen to your story
- Investigate the incident
- Identify all potentially liable parties
- Gather evidence and witness statements
- Assess the full value of your claim
- Build a compelling wrongful death case showing why you deserve compensation
- Handle all communication with the at-fault party, their insurer, and their lawyer
- File the wrongful death claim with the insurance company
- Negotiate for a fair settlement
- File a wrongful death lawsuit (if necessary)
- Present a persuasive case before the judge and jury
Our legal team will provide regular updates on your case, keeping you informed while respecting your need for privacy and healing.
Maryland Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Claims
You have three years from the date of the decedent’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Maryland. If you file suit after the deadline passes, the court can dismiss your case, and waiting too long may weaken your position when negotiating with the at-fault party’s insurer. A skilled wrongful death lawyer can help them track deadlines and court dates in La Plata.
What to Expect During the Wrongful Death Claims Process
Understanding the wrongful death claims process can help you gain a sense of control during such a turbulent time. Here’s a common progression:
- Consult a LaPlata wrongful death attorney – Learn your options for seeking compensation.
- Investigate the circumstances – Gather evidence to determine who is at fault for your loss.
- File an insurance claim – Submit a demand letter to the insurance company requesting fair compensation to settle your claim.
- Negotiate a settlement – Discuss liability and how much the insurer should pay.
- File a wrongful death lawsuit – Take your case to court if the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer.
Most wrongful death cases resolve through settlements. If your case goes to trial, additional steps in the process include:
- Conduct discovery – Exchange evidence, take depositions, send interrogatories, and continue investigating to build a case for trial.
- Proceed to trial – Present your case for a judge or jury to hear and render a verdict.
Negotiations can continue through the trial preparation period and right up until the verdict is read.
If you win, you’ll be awarded compensation. Your lawyer can advise you about whether you can file an appeal if the court decides in favor of the at-fault party.
Why Choose Trollinger Law LLC?
When you need a wrongful death law firm in La Plata, reach out to Trollinger Law LLC. Our firm is ranked among the fastest-growing private companies in the United States, with a successful history of helping clients in Charles County, Frederick, and Washington, D.C. recover compensation after unimaginable losses.
With over 300 five-star Google reviews, we are proud to be the choice for many families in need. Past clients praise us as dedicated and responsive advocates, and we’re grateful for their feedback.
Here’s what one client had to say about their experience with Trollinger Law LLC:
“Trollinger Law is truly a voice for the voiceless and will fight tooth and nail to ensure justice is served! They deserve more than five stars and will recommend them a million times 😊 Thanks to Hugh Williams, Molly, Arien, and the entire Trollinger firm team — you all are the best!!!!!”
— ElbiN
Contact a Wrongful Death Lawyer in La Plata Today
You don’t have to navigate this vulnerable time alone. The wrongful death attorneys at Trollinger Law LLC are ready to help. Call or complete our online contact form for a free legal consultation.
