Seeking Justice for Families Who’ve Lost Loved Ones
Losing a family member due to someone else’s negligence is one of life’s most devastating experiences. No lawsuit can undo the pain, but a wrongful death claim can provide the financial security your family needs while holding the responsible parties accountable.
At Leeson & Leeson, we approach every wrongful death case with the compassion, sensitivity, and determination your family deserves. Our attorneys have decades of experience fighting for families across Central Pennsylvania, and we understand both the emotional and legal complexities these cases involve.
No Cost Unless You Win | Over 50+ Years of Combined Experience
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Pennsylvania?
Under Pennsylvania’s Wrongful Death Act (42 Pa. C.S. § 8301), specific family members and representatives have the legal right to pursue a claim. Understanding who qualifies is the first step toward seeking justice.
- Spouse of the deceased – A surviving husband or wife may file for loss of companionship, financial support, and other damages.
- Children of the deceased – Both minor and adult children have the right to pursue compensation for the loss of a parent.
- Parents of the deceased – If there is no surviving spouse or children, parents may file the claim.
- Personal representative of the estate – The appointed executor or administrator can file on behalf of all eligible beneficiaries.
If you’re unsure whether you have standing to file, our attorneys can evaluate your situation during a free consultation.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Harrisburg
Wrongful death cases arise when someone’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct causes a fatality. In the Harrisburg area, the most common causes include:
Fatal Car and Truck Accidents
With I-81 and I-83 running directly through the Harrisburg metro area, fatal motor vehicle crashes remain tragically common. Our attorneys investigate these cases thoroughly to identify every liable party.
Workplace Fatalities
Construction site accidents, industrial incidents, and other on-the-job fatalities may give rise to wrongful death claims against third parties beyond the employer’s workers’ compensation coverage.
Medical Malpractice Deaths
When preventable medical errors at hospitals like UPMC Harrisburg or Penn State Health lead to a patient’s death, families deserve answers and accountability.
Defective Product Deaths
Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can be held strictly liable when dangerous or defective products cause fatal injuries.
Nursing Home Deaths
Neglect, abuse, and inadequate care in nursing facilities can lead to preventable deaths among vulnerable residents. We hold these facilities accountable.
Criminal Acts Resulting in Death
Even when criminal charges are filed, a separate civil wrongful death claim can help families recover compensation. The burden of proof in civil cases is lower than in criminal proceedings.
Compensation Available in Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Cases
Pennsylvania law allows families to seek both wrongful death damages and survival action damages. Together, these can provide meaningful financial relief during an incredibly difficult time.
Wrongful Death Damages (42 Pa. C.S. § 8301)
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills incurred before death
- Loss of the deceased’s expected earnings and benefits
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and consortium
- Other financial losses suffered by surviving family members
Survival Action Damages (42 Pa. C.S. § 8302)
- Pain and suffering the deceased experienced before passing
- Lost wages from the date of injury to the date of death
- Punitive damages in cases involving egregious or reckless conduct
The value of each case depends on factors like the deceased’s age, earning capacity, relationship to survivors, and the circumstances of the death. Our attorneys work with financial experts to calculate the full value of your claim.
Why Families in Harrisburg Trust Leeson & Leeson
Wrongful death cases require both legal skill and genuine compassion. Here’s why families across Central Pennsylvania choose our firm:
- Compassionate, Client-First Approach – We understand you’re grieving. We handle the legal burden so you can focus on your family.
- No Cost Unless We Win – You pay absolutely nothing upfront. Our contingency fee means we only get paid when you receive compensation.
- Over 50+ Years of Combined Experience – Our attorneys have decades of experience fighting for injury and wrongful death victims across Pennsylvania.
- Award-Winning Trial Lawyers – Joseph F. Leeson, III has been recognized in Top 10 Lawyers of 2025 and 2026 Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America.
- We Come to You – Can’t travel to our office? We offer consultations at your home, hospital, or a location convenient for you.
Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations
Under Pennsylvania law, you generally have two years from the date of your loved one’s death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to compensation entirely.
There are limited exceptions that may extend or shorten this timeline, so it’s critical to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Early action also allows for better evidence preservation and a stronger case.
Harrisburg Wrongful Death FAQs
What is the difference between a wrongful death claim and a survival action?
A wrongful death claim compensates surviving family members for their losses (lost income, companionship, funeral costs). A survival action compensates the deceased’s estate for the pain, suffering, and expenses the deceased experienced before passing. In Pennsylvania, both claims are often filed together.
How long does a wrongful death case take to resolve?
Every case is different. Some settle within several months through negotiation, while others require litigation and may take a year or more. Our attorneys prioritize getting fair results as efficiently as possible without rushing into an inadequate settlement.
Can I file a wrongful death claim if there’s a criminal case?
Yes. Criminal and civil cases are separate proceedings with different standards of proof. You can pursue a wrongful death claim regardless of whether criminal charges are filed, pending, or resolved.
What if my loved one was partially at fault?
Pennsylvania’s modified comparative negligence rule still applies. As long as the deceased was less than 51% at fault, the family may recover damages, though the award will be reduced proportionally.
How much does it cost to hire Leeson & Leeson for a wrongful death case?
Nothing upfront. We handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your family.
Book A Free Consultation with Leeson & Leeson Today!
During this incredibly difficult time, the last thing you should worry about is navigating the legal system alone. Contact Leeson & Leeson today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. We’ll review your situation, explain your legal options, and help your family understand what steps to take next.
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