Losing a loved one unexpectedly is devastating—especially when their death could have been prevented. At Freeburn Law, we help families in Harrisburg and surrounding areas take legal action after a wrongful death. Our team understands how emotional and overwhelming this process can be, and we’re here to help you navigate it with clarity and compassion.
What Is Wrongful Death in Pennsylvania?
Under Pennsylvania law, a wrongful death occurs when someone dies due to another party’s wrongful act, neglect, or unlawful violence. These incidents often involve:
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Fatal car or truck accidents
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Motorcycle or pedestrian collisions
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Medical malpractice or surgical errors
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Unsafe premises or property hazards
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Defective or dangerous products
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Workplace accidents or construction site deaths
In these cases, surviving family members have the right to pursue a claim for compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit or survival action. Our job is to help you understand your options and fight for the full compensation your family is owed.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Harrisburg?
In Pennsylvania, wrongful death lawsuits must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate—either someone appointed in the will or designated by the court. The claim can benefit the deceased’s:
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Spouse
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Children
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Parents
If none of these beneficiaries are alive, the estate may still recover limited damages. Our Harrisburg wrongful death lawyers can help identify who qualifies to file and how to proceed.
Two Types of Claims: Wrongful Death vs. Survival Actions
Pennsylvania law separates these cases into two distinct claims. The wrongful death claim addresses what surviving family members have lost—such as emotional support, companionship, or the financial stability the deceased once provided. The survival action focuses more on what the deceased experienced themselves, such as pain and suffering or lost wages before their passing. Both types of claims can be filed together, and our team will make sure your case reflects the full impact of the loss.
How Long Do You Have to File in Harrisburg?
In most wrongful death cases, you have up to two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit in Pennsylvania. While that may seem like plenty of time, key evidence can fade quickly. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better chance you have of building a strong case. We can help you take the first step by reviewing what happened and determining whether legal action is possible.
What Compensation Might Be Available?
Every case is different, but many families are entitled to compensation for things like funeral costs, medical bills, lost income, and emotional losses. In some cases, courts may also award damages for pain and suffering or future support the family would have received. At Freeburn Law, we’ll carefully evaluate how this loss has affected your family and work to recover the full amount you’re owed.
Why Harrisburg Families Trust Freeburn Law
Families across Harrisburg and Central Pennsylvania have turned to Freeburn Law for help during some of the hardest moments of their lives. Here’s why:
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Decades of experience handling complex wrongful death cases
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Local Harrisburg office for in-person consultations
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Home and hospital visits available when you can’t come to us
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No upfront legal fees – you pay nothing unless we win your case
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A compassionate legal team that treats your family like our own
We don’t just fight for results—we stand by you throughout the process, helping you make informed choices along the way.
Local Support When It Matters Most
Our office is right here in Harrisburg, and we work with families across the region, including Camp Hill, Colonial Park, Hershey, and beyond. If you’ve lost someone because of someone else’s mistake or carelessness, we’re here to help you take the next step.
Talk With a Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
A wrongful death lawsuit won’t undo what happened—but it can help protect your family’s future and bring a sense of justice. Contact Freeburn Law today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal rights.
