Advocacy grounded in accountability, care, and the law.
The loss of a loved one due to another party’s wrongful conduct is devastating. Beyond the emotional toll, families often face financial uncertainty, unanswered questions, and a complex legal process at a time when clarity is most critical.
At Badey, Sloan & DiGenova, P.C., our Philadelphia wrongful death lawyers represent surviving family members in claims arising from fatal accidents, negligence, and preventable harm. We approach these cases with care, discipline, and a clear understanding of Pennsylvania wrongful death law.
A Disciplined Approach to Wrongful Death Claims
Seeking Accountability While Respecting the Process
Wrongful death cases are not driven by emotion alone. Under Pennsylvania law, pursuing accountability often requires filing a wrongful death lawsuit supported by evidence, expert analysis, and compliance with strict procedural rules.
At Badey, Sloan & DiGenova, we begin by evaluating whether the facts support legal responsibility and whether a lawsuit is the appropriate course of action. Some cases may be resolved through early negotiation, while others may require complex litigation to compel accountability. Our experienced wrongful death attorneys prepare cases with the understanding that a lawsuit may be necessary to protect a family’s rights and pursue fair compensation.
This disciplined approach allows us to provide honest guidance about when legal action is warranted and what families can expect throughout the process.
Understanding Wrongful Death Law in Pennsylvania
Who May File — and What the Law Allows
Wrongful death claims in Pennsylvania are governed by the Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Act, which allows specific individuals to seek compensation when a family member’s death is caused by another party’s wrongful act, negligence, or unlawful conduct.
Under the Act, a wrongful death claim is typically brought by the deceased person’s spouse, children, or parents. If no eligible family member files a claim within six months of the death, the personal representative of the estate may pursue the claim on behalf of all beneficiaries.
To succeed, the claim must establish that the defendant’s wrongful conduct caused the death and that surviving family members suffered legally recognized losses as a result. These claims are subject to a two-year statute of limitations, which generally begins to run on the date of death. Missing this deadline can permanently bar recovery, but certain exceptions may apply; a good reason to seek out a lawyer..
The Wrongful Death Act works alongside Pennsylvania’s Survival Act, which allows the estate to pursue damages the deceased person could have recovered had they lived. While related, these claims serve different legal purposes and are often pursued together.
Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Claims vs. Survival Actions
Understanding the Difference Matters
Pennsylvania law recognizes two related but distinct legal claims when a death results from negligence.
- Wrongful death claims focus on the losses suffered by surviving family members, such as loss of financial support, companionship, and services. If the deceased previously filed a personal injury claim, it is consolidated with the wrongful death claim.
- Survival actions, often filed with a wrongful death claim, are brought by the deceased person’s estate and seek financial compensation for the damages the deceased could have pursued had they survived, including pain and suffering prior to death, lost wages, and medical expenses incurred before passing.
Note that both claims may be pursued together, and each serves a different legal purpose. There are tax implications to consider, especially when formulating a settlement.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Philadelphia
When Preventable Harm Turns Fatal
Wrongful death claims often arise from serious incidents that could have been avoided with reasonable care. Our firm evaluates wrongful death cases involving:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Medical malpractice and healthcare negligence
- Construction and workplace accidents
- Defective or dangerous products
- Premises liability and unsafe property conditions
- Acts of negligence or unlawful violence
Each case requires a careful review of the facts, evidence, and applicable law.
What to Do After the Loss of a Loved One
Early Decisions Can Affect the Case
While no legal action can undo the loss, taking certain steps early can help protect your rights:
- Preserve available evidence related to the incident, including records, photos, clothing, objects, parts, and any communications (including emails, texts, etc.)
- Avoid discussing the incident on social media, as the insurance company may use it later.
- Avoid making early statements to insurance companies or opposing parties without legal guidance.
- Consult a Philadelphia wrongful death lawyer to learn deadlines, legal requirements, and next steps.
Evidence preservation is especially important, as wrongful death cases often depend on detailed factual reconstruction.
Compensation in a Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Case
Addressing Financial and Emotional Losses
Wrongful death compensation is intended to address both economic and non-economic losses suffered by surviving family members. Depending on the case, wrongful death damages may include:
- Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of income and financial support
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and services
- Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased (through a survival action)
Damages are typically distributed according to Pennsylvania intestate inheritance laws.
Trial-Ready Advocacy for Complex Wrongful Death Litigation
Prepared to Litigate When Accountability Is Contested
Most wrongful death cases often involve disputed liability, multiple defendants, and complex evidence. Insurance companies and corporate defendants frequently challenge both responsibility and damages.
Badey, Sloan & DiGenova prepares wrongful death cases with trial readiness in mind. Our experience in complex litigation and appeals allows us to navigate evidentiary challenges and advocate effectively when settlement is not appropriate.
Fees and the Cost of Hiring a Wrongful Death Lawyer
Clear Expectations. No Upfront Legal Fees.
Wrongful death cases are typically handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning legal fees are paid only if compensation is recovered. This structure allows families to pursue claims without additional financial burden.
During an initial consultation, we explain how fees work, what costs may arise, how decisions are made throughout the legal process, and what evidence to preserve, including records, photos, clothing, objects, parts, and any communications (e.g., emails, texts).
Why Choose Badey, Sloan & DiGenova P.C.
Experience, Judgment, and Compassionate Representation
Wrongful death cases require more than legal knowledge; they demand judgment, sensitivity, and careful advocacy. At Badey, Sloan & DiGenova, clients work directly with attorneys who understand the emotional and legal complexity of these claims.
Our Philadelphia roots, trial experience, and disciplined approach guide every wrongful death case we handle.
