PHILADELPHIA WRONGFUL DEATH LAWYER
Content Legally Reviewed & Approved
This page has been written and edited by a team of experienced legal writers. This page was approved by Managing Partner, Michael Saile who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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- Why Choose Us To Handle Your Wrongful Death Case
- You Deserve Justice After a Tragic Loss
- What Events Can Lead to a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
- What Our Clients Say About Working With Us
- Liable Parties in a Wrongful Death Suit
- How To File a Wrongful Death Claim in Philadelphia
- Recoverable Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim
- Beneficiaries of a Wrongful Death Suit
- How Long Do You Have To File a Claim?
- Talk to Our Philadelphia Wrongful Death Lawyers About Your Claim
When you lose a loved one because of someone else’s actions, we know that no amount of compensation can truly make up for your loss. However, a wrongful death claim provides a powerful tool to seek the accountability, closure, and financial support your family needs.
At Cordisco & Saile LLC, our Philadelphia wrongful death lawyers will guide you through your legal options and fight for the results your family deserves.
Why Choose Us To Handle Your Wrongful Death Case
Our award-winning team has represented grieving families in Philadelphia for more than 30 years. We know Pennsylvania wrongful death law inside and out, and we use that experience to help families recover compensation and find closure after a tragic loss. With more than $100 million recovered for clients and over 400 five-star reviews, we’ve built a reputation as trusted advocates who get results.
Our motto is “People Come First,” and we mean it. When you turn to us, we’ll take the time to listen to your story, explain your options clearly, and empower you to choose the right path forward. We’ll then guide you through each step of the process and fight for every dollar you deserve.
You Deserve Justice After a Tragic Loss
Losing a loved one unexpectedly changes everything. When someone else’s carelessness causes that loss, a deep sense of injustice often accompanies the grief.
We understand that this isn’t just a legal matter. Families come to us during some of the hardest times in their lives. If you trust us with your case, we’ll work tirelessly to tell your loved one’s story and provide the closure you need to start moving forward.
What Events Can Lead to a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?
Wrongful death can result from many different types of preventable incidents. We represent families in a wide range of situations where a loved one has died because of someone else’s negligence, including the following:
- Car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, and other motor vehicle crashes
- Medical errors
- Nursing home abuse or neglect
- Slips, trips, and falls
- Dangerous or defective products
A large portion of the cases we handle involve motor vehicle accidents. In Philadelphia, 80% of the city’s traffic deaths and serious injuries occur on just 12% of its streets. We’ve seen firsthand how poor road design or dangerous driving behavior, such as speeding or distracted driving, can have irreversible consequences in these high-risk areas.
What Our Clients Say About Working With Us
We know how important trust is during a vulnerable time. That’s why we’re proud to share words from those we’ve helped after a tragic accident, like the following:
“Cordisco & Saile has been a true blessing during one of the most difficult chapters of my life. From start to finish, Attorney Steven, David, and the entire team were compassionate, professional, and dedicated to making sure I was taken care of. They kept me informed every step of the way and fought hard to get my case resolved. I highly recommend Cordisco & Saile to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney who truly cares.”
“I would recommend Cordisco & Saile Injury Lawyers to anyone looking for an attorney. My experience with them was like no other. Very compassionate. Mike and Maria take you through each and every step of your case, answering all the questions you have. They were always available for me!! Thank you so much for everything you did for me and my family!”
“I had a wonderful experience with Cordisco and Saile. Both Joselyn Salazar and attorney Michael Saille Jr. were excellent. They were attentive and explained everything thoroughly. I felt I was in excellent hands with their taking care of my case.”
Liable Parties in a Wrongful Death Suit
Multiple possibilities might be responsible for a wrongful death, including individuals, manufacturers, government entities, or private companies. The circumstances of the death will dictate who might be responsible for the family’s damages.
The following are examples of parties that may be liable in a wrongful death suit:
- A negligent or intoxicated driver
- A bar or restaurant that has overserved alcohol to a visibly drunk patron involved in a fatal crash
- A government agency that has failed to properly maintain a roadway, causing a fatal accident
- A childcare worker who neglected a child, resulting in a fatal injury.
- A health care professional or hospital that failed to provide the appropriate standard of care, resulting in a medical malpractice death
- A manufacturer that produced faulty equipment that caused a fatal accident
How To File a Wrongful Death Claim in Philadelphia
You have enough on your plate after losing a loved one. Our team can handle each step of the legal process while you focus on grieving and healing. Here’s an overview of what the process typically involves:
| Step 1: Contact a Lawyer | We offer a free consultation to explore your options. During this meeting, a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer listens to your story, explains your rights, and answers your questions to help you decide what legal route to take. |
| Step 2: Investigate the Case | Our team investigates the incident to determine what caused it, identify the liable party, and calculate your damages. We'll gather evidence proving the at-fault party's negligence and your damages. |
| Step 3: File the Claim | We file a demand letter with the at-fault party or their insurance company. This document outlines your damages and explains why we believe you're entitled to that compensation. |
| Step 4: Negotiate a Settlement | Our attorneys communicate with the other party or their insurance company to reach a fair settlement. |
| Step 5: Go to Trial if Necessary | If the other party refuses to make a favorable settlement offer, we'll be ready to file a lawsuit and represent you in court. |
Recoverable Damages in a Wrongful Death Claim
Pennsylvania’s wrongful death statute, 42 Pa. C.S.A. § 8301(c), lists the type of damages recoverable by affected family members for a loved one’s wrongful death. You may have the right to seek the following types of losses in a wrongful death lawsuit against the liable party:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support from the deceased, including their income and benefits
- Loss of companionship or comfort
- Loss of parental guidance
Meanwhile, in a survival action under 42 Pa. C.S.A. § 8302, the personal representative continues a personal injury claim on the deceased’s behalf and seeks recovery of damages incurred by the deceased before death. For example, you may seek compensation for medical expenses related to any care the deceased received for their fatal injury.
Our Philadelphia wrongful death attorneys can help you seek damages in either type of claim. Case values vary significantly, but we’ve obtained high-value settlements and verdicts in numerous personal injury and wrongful death claims. These results include $2.47 million for a man injured in an accident with an armored car and $1.175 million for a couple injured due to negligent alcohol service.
Beneficiaries of a Wrongful Death Suit
Pennsylvania allows certain close family members to recover damages and losses related to a wrongful death. The following individuals may be entitled to damages in wrongful death lawsuits:
- Spouses: A spouse can bring a wrongful death suit against the responsible party for damages such as medical and funeral expenses, as well as loss of financial support and loss of companionship.
- Dependent Children: Children may suffer greatly after the loss of a parent. Dependent children may be entitled to compensation for loss of parental support and guidance, and more.
- Parents: Depending on the age of the deceased and the personal circumstances leading up to the wrongful death, parents may be able to seek reimbursement for associated losses under wrongful death laws.
Damages recovered by the estate in a survival action are distributed based on the deceased’s will. If there is no will, the proceeds are distributed according to the state’s intestacy laws. Our Philadelphia wrongful death lawyers can help families ensure that the distribution of the average wrongful death settlement of any damages is just and within the scope of the law.
How Long Do You Have To File a Claim?
In Pennsylvania, you usually have two years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death claim. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to take legal action.
While two years might seem like plenty of time, building a strong case takes time. Evidence and memories fade, making it harder to build a successful claim. The sooner you contact us for help, the better equipped we’ll be to seek maximum compensation for you. If you’re unsure how much time you have, don’t hesitate to contact our attorneys for personalized guidance.
Talk to Our Philadelphia Wrongful Death Lawyers About Your Claim
If you’ve lost a loved one due to the wrongdoing or neglectful actions of another person, company, or government entity, a wrongful death lawsuit can provide accountability and compensation for your losses. You don’t have to navigate this complex process alone. Let Cordisco & Saile handle the burden while you focus on your family.
Our Philadelphia wrongful death lawyers can pursue justice for your loved one’s death. Call us today at 215-642-2335 or use our contact form to set up a free consultation.
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Our Attorneys
Real Stories. Real Results.
“I was in a serious accident in 2021. My injuries were new however they mimicked some of the injuries I received in a 2017 accident. After treating with 2 doctors, both who stated my injuries were permanent, I was recommended to Cordisco & Saile. My attorney, Steven DeBonis, was wonderful. He listened and guided me through the process. He worked endlessly to ensure I received a proper settlement. I am so grateful for his effort and kindness. I would highly recommend him to anyone who needed someone to fight for them. The staff was friendly, informative and helpful. They are the best legal team around. Thank you for all you have done.”
I had a slip and fall on Saturday, December 21, 2024. I waited a few days before calling Barbara’s firm and when I decided to reach out, I left a message late at night on the 23rd. First thing Christmas Eve day, Barbara calls me to let me know. She received the message and wanted to chat about my fall. She was extremely professional, detailed the process, and what they would look for in terms of backup documentation, but also instilled a sense of safety and security because she was kind, compassionate and empathetic. She gave the distinct impression that my case would be well researched thoroughly but also be done ethically without having me jump through a whole lot of extra hoops. Five stars, would highly recommend.”
“I had a car accident in January 2019. I called Cordisco and Saile. Michael Saile Jr. worked with me along with his associate Steve, and para legal Michele. They treated me with kindness and respect. I had injuries to my neck and spine. I went through months of physical therapy. The person who t- boned my car had no license, registration or insurance, therefore Mr. Saile had to put together a lawsuit against my own insurance company. I had limited tort insurance but Mr. Saile and his people fought to get me the most money that I was entitled to from my insurance company. It took four years due to the pandemic but they kept at it until they reached the maximum. I cannot thank them enough. Everyone in their office worked very hard for me. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone who has had an accident, or any legal work.”
We’re here to listen, help you understand your legal options, and support you during this difficult time. Remember, there is never any cost or obligation when you call our team to learn about your options.
What to expect when you submit the form:
- You will receive confirmation that your form has been submitted.
- A legal professional will reach out to you during your preferred time within 24 hours.
- We will send you information about our law firm and the process of filing a lawsuit.
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