Washington, D.C. Wrongful Death Lawyer

Pursuing Justice for Families After a Preventable Loss

When a person’s life is cut short because of negligence, the law recognizes this as wrongful death. It is the legal remedy for tragedies that could have been avoided if reasonable care had been taken.

At United Attorney Group, we have secured more than $429 million for victims and families. In wrongful death cases, our mission is clear: hold negligent parties accountable and fight for the financial recovery that surviving families deserve. Whether the defendant is an individual, a corporation, or a government agency, we stand ready to bring the full weight of the law against them.

Why Families Trust United Attorney Group

• Over $429 Million in Verdicts & Settlements
• Experienced Trial Lawyers Who Take on Corporations and Insurers
• No Fee Unless We Win
• Compassionate Representation With Proven Results

Call (202) 953-3377 or contact us online for a FREE consultation with a Washington, D.C. wrongful death attorney.

Results That Make a Difference

• $2.9 Million – Wrongful death settlement for the family of an individual who lost their life due to unsafe property conditions.
• $2.2 Million – Settlement in a wrongful death case involving a collision caused by an intoxicated, unlicensed driver.
• $1.4 Million – Settlement on behalf of the family of a victim killed in a DUI crash.
• $1.2 Million – Jury award for a motor vehicle accident TBI victim.

See more of our results.

How Wrongful Death Cases Work

Wrongful death law exists to give families a legal remedy when negligence leads to the loss of life. These cases are not about assigning a price to a person’s life. They are about accountability and about providing surviving spouses, children, and parents with the means to move forward after a preventable tragedy.

In Washington, D.C., there are two related legal actions that may arise from a fatal accident:

• Wrongful Death Action – Filed by the estate’s personal representative on behalf of surviving family members. This claim seeks compensation for the family’s losses, such as funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
• Survival Action – Filed by the estate to recover for harms the deceased suffered before death. This includes medical bills, lost wages, and the pain and suffering endured between the time of injury and passing.

Together, these actions make sure that both the family’s loss and the decedent’s own suffering are addressed under the law.

Who May File a Wrongful Death Claim in Washington, D.C.?

In Washington, D.C., a wrongful death action is brought by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. The claim is filed for the benefit of close relatives — usually the spouse, children, or parents.

This structure ensures that those who bear the greatest loss are the ones who can seek relief. Families may recover damages such as:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support and household contributions
• Medical expenses related to the final injury or illness
• Loss of companionship, guidance, and protection

Proving Liability in a Wrongful Death Case

Establishing responsibility in a wrongful death claim requires proof of negligence. In most cases, this involves showing that:

1. The defendant owed the deceased a duty of care (for example, a driver must follow traffic laws).
2. That duty was breached through careless or reckless conduct.
3. The breach caused the fatal accident or injury.
4. The death resulted in measurable damages to the surviving family.

Defendants in wrongful death cases often include drivers, employers, corporations, property owners, healthcare providers, or government agencies. Our attorneys investigate thoroughly, collect evidence, and work with experts to establish fault and pursue accountability.

Damages Available in Wrongful Death Claims

Compensation in wrongful death cases is designed to address both economic losses and the profound human consequences of losing a loved one. Recoverable damages may include:

• Medical expenses incurred before death
• Funeral and burial costs
• Loss of income and benefits the deceased would have provided
• Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
• Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death (survival action damages)

By pursuing these damages, families can achieve some measure of financial security and closure, even in the face of unimaginable loss.

Washington D.C. Wrongful Death FAQ

How Long Do Families Have to File a Claim?

In Washington, D.C., wrongful death claims are subject to a three-year statute of limitations. However, cases involving government entities may require formal notice within as little as six months. Missing these deadlines can mean losing the right to pursue compensation altogether.

Speaking with an attorney as soon as possible helps ensure your family’s rights are preserved and that crucial evidence is protected.

What Is the Difference Between Wrongful Death and a Criminal Case?

A wrongful death case is a civil lawsuit seeking financial compensation, while a criminal case seeks punishment such as imprisonment. Both can arise from the same event, but they are handled separately.

Can More Than One Family Member Recover Compensation?

Yes. The lawsuit is filed by the estate’s personal representative, but compensation is distributed among eligible family members such as spouses, children, or parents.

What If My Loved One Contributed to the Accident?

Because D.C. follows pure contributory negligence, if the deceased is found even slightly at fault, the family’s claim may be barred. This is one of the strictest legal standards in the country, which is why skilled legal representation is essential.

How Much Is a Wrongful Death Case Worth?

Every case is different. The value depends on factors such as the deceased’s age, income, life expectancy, and the circumstances of the death. Our attorneys work with experts to calculate the full financial and emotional impact on the family.

Speak With a Washington, D.C. Wrongful Death Attorney

At United Attorney Group, we understand the profound impact of losing a loved one due to negligence. We combine compassionate support with the strength of proven trial advocacy, and we have recovered over $429 million for clients in high-stakes cases.

Call (202) 953-3377 or contact us online for a FREE consultation. We are ready to help families across the DMV and beyond pursue justice and accountability.