No amount of money can replace someone you love. But when a death is caused by another's negligence, a Massachusetts wrongful death claim can provide financial security for the family and hold the responsible party accountable. We handle these cases with the compassion and care your family deserves.
Massachusetts Wrongful Death Law
Under M.G.L. c. 229, § 2, a wrongful death claim may be brought when a person dies because of another party's negligence, willful or reckless conduct, or breach of warranty. These claims arise from many circumstances — car and truck crashes, medical malpractice, defective products, workplace accidents, and more.
In Massachusetts, the wrongful death claim is brought by the personal representative (executor or administrator) of the deceased person's estate, on behalf of the surviving family members who were affected by the loss.
What Damages Are Available
Massachusetts wrongful death damages are intended to compensate the family for their loss and may include the loss of the deceased's reasonably expected net income, services, protection, care, and companionship; the loss of comfort, guidance, counsel, and advice; reasonable funeral and burial expenses; and conscious pain and suffering the victim experienced before death. In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, punitive damages of at least 5,000 dollars may also be available under the statute.
Why Acting Promptly Matters
Massachusetts generally requires that a wrongful death action be filed within three years of the date of death under M.G.L. c. 229, § 2. Beyond the legal deadline, evidence that proves how the death occurred — accident scenes, medical records, witness memories, and physical evidence — fades over time. Early investigation preserves the proof your family's case depends on.
We understand this is an overwhelming time. Our role is to handle the legal connection so your family can focus on grieving and healing, while an experienced attorney pursues accountability and compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The claim is brought by the personal representative of the deceased's estate on behalf of the surviving family members, such as a spouse, children, or other next of kin.
Generally three years from the date of death under M.G.L. c. 229, § 2. Acting sooner helps preserve critical evidence.
Lost income and services, loss of companionship and guidance, funeral and burial costs, the victim's conscious pain and suffering, and in some cases punitive damages.
Nothing upfront. Our network attorneys work on contingency — no fee unless they recover compensation for your family.
Injured in Massachusetts? Your free case review is one call away. Reach us at 973-566-5599 — available 24/7, no fee unless you win.