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Lost a Loved One to Negligence? Our Philadelphia Wrongful Death Attorneys Fight for Fair Compensation

Nothing shakes a family like a loved one’s death from a tractor-trailer crash on I-95, a surgical error at Jefferson, a workplace accident, or an accidental drowning on the Schuylkill. When a wrongful death occurs, the grief is overwhelming. Beyond the heartbreak come funeral expenses, burial costs, medical bills, and lost income.

If your family member’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to file a wrongful death claim under Pennsylvania law.

You need an experienced Philadelphia wrongful death attorney who knows how to prove liability, open the decedent’s estate properly, and pursue the full financial compensation your family deserves.

From our Center City office, we fight for injured Pennsylvanians across the Greater Philadelphia area, including Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, and Chester Counties.

What Is a Philadelphia Wrongful Death Claim Under Pennsylvania Law?

Under the Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Act, a wrongful death is defined as a death caused by the wrongful act, neglect, unlawful violence, or negligence of another party.

A wrongful death lawsuit is a civil action brought for the benefit of surviving family members. It is separate from any criminal charges arising from the same conduct.

Most wrongful death cases in Philadelphia involve:

Motor vehicle accidents involving negligent drivers
Medical malpractice, including surgical errors and misdiagnosis
Workplace accidents and construction fatalities
Criminal acts or intentional harm
Defective products
Premises liability and negligent security
Birth injuries leading to fatal injury

Medical malpractice remains one of the leading causes of wrongful death claims in Philadelphia.

I worked closely with Cory Trobman, Esq. on an accident case. Cory was always very knowledgeable about the entire legal process and what the next steps should be. His calm and thorough assessment of key situations always put my mind at ease. He was very responsive and thoroughly professional. I came to see Cory less as a lawyer and more as a guide through the complicated and sometimes confusing legal landscape. In the end, he got me a settlement larger than I expected. The office staff also reflected the same of professionalism and attention to detail.

Olufemi P. Facebook

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Thank you Craig Altman & Associates they handled my case perfectly from start to finish. If you are injured, and need attorneys who get results, call the Craig Altman Law Firm right away. They are professional, care about their clients, and make sure you get the maximum value for your case. I highly recommend them! Call Now!

Caren W. Facebook

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I highly recommend Allen Aigeldinger and this Law office. Great communication and fought for getting me excellent compensation for injury!

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I highly recommend Craig Altman. The staff was amazing, especially Sharon. They were always professional and communicated effectively. Craig was very knowledgeable and always on point from start to finish. I can’t thank you enough for a job well done. Craig you and your staff are amazing.

Angela M. Facebook

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I had an excellent experience working with the Law Offices of Craig Altman, and I cannot speak highly enough of his exceptional service and dedication. Craig Altman stood out with his professionalism and attentiveness... From the very beginning, he made sure to understand my needs and concerns, providing clear and comprehensive guidance... His expertise and attention to detail were evident and his dedication to achieving the best outcome was impressive... They frequently kept me informed with the process of settling my case. They promptly returned my calls, addressed my concerns, and were kind throughout the process.

Ariella K. Google

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I wanted to thank Mr. Cory Trobman and his staff, especially Jessica, for putting up with me during my settlement. They kept me informed of any updates. I know I am nervous Nellie so it can be challenging dealing with me, but they were all great. All I can say is have patience and let them do their job. The wait will be well worth it. And do not listen to any doubters.

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I was incredibly impressed with the professionalism and expertise of the entire team at Law Offices of Craig A. Altman. They handled my complex legal case with great care and kept me informed every step of the way, ensuring I understood the process clearly. Despite a stressful situation, they were compassionate and ultimately achieved a very positive outcome for me. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance.

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I had a great experience with this law firm. I appreciated the support they showed and they made sure that I got the proper care I needed. They were able to negotiate while keeping this from going to court. But, I'm sure they would have been prepared to do so, so that I could get what I deserved. Thank you!

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My experience with Craig And Cory have been nothing short of Comforting, Smooth, Diligent and Effective. Calling Cory the man would be an understatement extremely professional from start to finish. I 100% recommend these amazing guys they are a force to be reckoned with, they will fight nail to bone for you. Never judge a book by it's cover and certainly never underestimate these great Lawyer's one of the GREATEST Law Firms in the Philadelphia Area and surroundings!!!

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I was very pleased with the service I received from the Law Offices of Craig A. Altman. They kept me informed about the progress of my case and answered all my questions. I would definitely recommend their services.

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Cory and the team stuck with me through the long haul to get me justice and prioritized my wants/needs at every turn. Massive thanks to Cory for all of his hard work, help, and patience - would highly recommend him and the team.

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They are very professional and very well spoken about fighting for you and do everything correctly the first time around and always make sure to check up on there clients.

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Craig Altman was a blessing to our family. He is knowledgeable in his field and advocated for my husband in a difficult case. He knows his stuff and will make sure he does all he knows how to do to help you. To the point and about results, respect and professionalism.

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Cory was very helpful! Not only did he handle the case with professionalism he also made sure I got the help I needed for recovery. I would definitely recommend his services to anyone in need!

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I had the pleasure of having Cory represent me, he is a fantastic lawyer who has a caring and passionate approach to his work. I highly recommend him for all your legal needs.

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Took a while but Craig and his team persevered! Cory responded in a timely fashion each time I called. Professional and friendly.

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Who Can File a Philadelphia Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Under Pennsylvania law:

The personal representative of the deceased’s estate must file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Eligible beneficiaries typically include the surviving spouse, children, or parents.
If no immediate family members file within six months, the personal representative may proceed on behalf of all beneficiaries.

Opening an estate is often required before you can file a wrongful death claim.

Our Philadelphia wrongful death lawyers handle that process so families are not overwhelmed by probate paperwork while grieving.

Philadelphia Wrongful Death Attorney Handling Survival Actions

Every Philadelphia wrongful death lawsuit may involve two separate legal actions:

Wrongful Death Action – Compensates surviving family members for their losses.
Survival Action – Allows the decedent’s estate to recover damages the victim could have claimed had they survived, including pain and suffering, medical expenses related to the fatal injury, and lost wages prior to death.

Understanding the difference is critical to recovering full and fair compensation.

Common Philadelphia Wrongful Death Cases We Handle

Our law firm represents families in complex wrongful death cases involving:

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Fatal car accidents, trucking crashes, distracted driving collisions, DUI crashes, and pedestrian fatalities remain the leading causes of wrongful death in Philadelphia.

Medical Malpractice

Surgical errors, medication overdoses, delayed diagnosis, anesthesia errors, and hospital negligence frequently result in fatal injury.

Workplace Accidents

Construction site deaths, OSHA violations, equipment failures, and unsafe property conditions.

Criminal Acts and Intentional Wrongdoing

Unlawful violence, intentional acts, negligent security failures, and other egregious behavior.

Premises Liability

Unsafe property conditions, apartment complex negligence, and accidental drownings.

Defective Products

Dangerous drugs, unsafe machinery, or defective consumer products.

Each Philadelphia wrongful death case requires aggressive investigation and proof that the defendant’s negligence directly caused the person’s death.

How We Prove a Wrongful Death Claim

The burden of proof is on the plaintiff. To recover compensation, we must show:

A wrongful act or a party’s negligence occurred
That negligence caused the death
Surviving family members suffered measurable losses

Our experienced wrongful death attorney team gathers:

Medical records
Autopsy findings
Police reports
Expert testimony
Economic analysis of life expectancy and future earnings

Calculating damages in wrongful death lawsuits often requires economists to project lost income, retirement benefits, and financial support the deceased would have provided.

Damages Available in a Philadelphia Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Compensation in wrongful death cases may include:

Economic Damages

Funeral expenses
Burial expenses
Medical expenses
Lost wages and lost income
Household services
Financial support for dependent relatives

Non-Economic Damages

Emotional pain
Emotional distress
Loss of companionship
Loss of guidance
Emotional support

Survival Damages

The decedent’s pain and suffering
Medical expenses related to treatment before death

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages may be awarded in wrongful death cases involving reckless or intentional wrongdoing.

The goal is full and fair compensation that reflects the magnitude of your family’s loss.

Pennsylvania Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death

Under Pennsylvania law (42 Pa. C.S. § 5524), a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within two years from the date of death.

Missing this deadline can permanently bar your wrongful death claim.

Our Philadelphia wrongful death lawyers move quickly to preserve evidence and file a wrongful death action within the required timeframe.

Why Families Choose Our Philadelphia Wrongful Death Law Firm

Proven track record in complex wrongful death cases
Aggressive litigation strategy when insurers refuse fair compensation
Compassionate guidance through estate and court procedures
Contingency fee basis — no legal fees unless we recover compensation
Free consultation for families seeking answers

Most wrongful death lawyers in Philadelphia operate on a contingency-fee basis. You pay nothing unless we win.

Frequently Asked Questions About Philadelphia Wrongful Death Cases

What is the average wrongful death settlement in PA?

There is no true average. Compensation depends on income history, life expectancy, the severity of negligence, and available insurance coverage.

How hard is it to win a wrongful death lawsuit?

With fast investigation, strong experts, and an experienced Philadelphia wrongful death lawyer, many wrongful death cases resolve successfully through settlement or trial.

Who can file a wrongful death suit in Pennsylvania?

The personal representative of the deceased’s estate files on behalf of eligible family members, typically the surviving spouse, children, or parents.

How much does a lawyer charge for a wrongful death lawsuit?

Most wrongful death attorneys work on a contingency basis, meaning fees are paid only if compensation is recovered.

File a Wrongful Death Claim Today — Free Consultation

If your loved one’s death was caused by someone else’s negligence, do not face this alone.

Speak with a Philadelphia wrongful death attorney at the Law Offices of Craig A. Altman. We will review your case, explain your legal options, and pursue substantial compensation on behalf of your family.

Time limits apply. Evidence disappears. Insurance companies move fast.

So do we.

Injured? Tell Us Your Story. We’ll Handle the Rest.

Full Name

Email Address

Phone Number

Where did the injury occur? Note: Our firm only handles cases in PA and NJ.

Pennsylvania New Jersey

What caused the injuries?

What caused the injuries?

What was the date of the injury / accident? Note: Statute of limitations is generally 2 years from the date of injury.

Did you seek medical care? Note: Seeking medical care is the first step in establishing a claim. If you are injured, please seek medical assistance immediately.

Tell us anything else you think we should know.

Call To Speak To A Lawyer For A Free Case Evaluation.

Cases We Handle in Pennsylvania

Tough Cases.
Tougher Lawyers.

Protecting the Rights of Injury Victims in Southeastern Pennsylvania

Hurt in a car crash, trucking accident, slip-and-fall, or other negligence-based mishap in Southeast Pennsylvania?

The Altman Team focuses exclusively on personal injury law, leveraging a deep command of Pennsylvania tort statutes to win maximum compensation for residents of Philadelphia, Bucks, Montgomery, Chester, and Delaware Counties.

You owe us nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

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