Waldorf Wrongful Death Lawyers Serving La Plata and Charles Counties, MD
When a loved one dies unexpectedly because of someone else's irresponsibile behavior, you may be able to recover damages through a Maryland wrongful death lawsuit. The Law Office of Thomas E. Pyles has considerable experience successfully representing clients through our Waldorf wrongful death attorneys. Our lawyers, serving La Plata and Charles County, are skilled litigators and aggressively pursue the compensation our clients need and deserve.
Under Maryland law, what is a wrongful death claim?
The wife, husband, parents, and/or children of a loved one who dies because of someone else’s negligence may pursue a wrongful death claim in Maryland. Recoverable damages are based on the degree of harm the loss creates for the family. A wrongful death attorney must prove that another person (or business) was responsible for the accidental death—whether due to medical malpractice, a motor vehicle accident, products liability (a dangerous product that caused death), or some other type of injurious accident.
Types of damages pursued
Your lawyer can usually pursue two types of damages in a wrongful death case—economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages include compensation for medical costs, funeral expenses, loss of future income, and other financial loss related to the death.
Non-economic damages may include:
- Mental anguish
- Emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of society, companionship, comfort, protection, marital care, parental care, filial care, attention, advice, counsel, training, guidance, or education where applicable
A third type of damage that attorneys pursue in certain cases is called punitive damages. Most wrongful death cases involve no criminal prosecution against the person or business that caused the death. However, in addition to a civil suit, when criminal laws are violated, the responsible party may also be brought up on criminal charges. A classic example of a jury awarding punitive damages in a wrongful death case is the O.J. Simpson trial, where the jury in the civil case awarded millions of dollars in punitive damages to the families who brought the civil lawsuit.
Put your trust in experienced wrongful death lawyers
Discussing your legal options with a knowledgeable lawyer may provide a solution to financial burdens. Our wrongful death attorneys at our office in Waldorf serve clients in La Plata and Charles counties in Maryland. Call today at 301-705-5006 to schedule your free initial consultation. Or contact the Law Office of Thomas E. Pyles online. We offer 24-hour service and evening and weekend appointments for your convenience.
