Losing a loved one due to someone else’s negligence is devastating. If you’re wondering how long a wrongful death lawsuit takes to settle in Baltimore, Maryland, WGK Personal Injury Lawyers in Baltimore understands your concerns. We know you’re facing emotional trauma while dealing with financial uncertainty.
At WGK Personal Injury Lawyers, we’ve recovered tens of millions of dollars for our clients. Our deep roots in the Baltimore community span decades, giving us unique insight into local courts and procedures. Contact us today for a free consultation or call us at (410) 837-2144 with a wrongful death lawyer.
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How Wgk Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Wrongful Death in Baltimore
Our Baltimore, Maryland, team at WGK Personal Injury Lawyers brings over 80 years of combined experience in personal injury law to every case. As three generations of Maryland lawyers, we’ve helped countless families navigate the complex process of wrongful death settlements.
We can help you by:
- Investigating the circumstances of your loved one’s death
- Gathering critical evidence to support your claim
- Working with expert witnesses to strengthen your case
- Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf
- Representing you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Our comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of your case receives the attention it deserves. Contact our Baltimore personal injury attorneys today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
How Long Will a Maryland Wrongful Death Lawsuit Take?
The timeline for a wrongful death lawsuit in Maryland varies significantly depending on several factors. Most cases take between one to three years from filing to settlement payment. Complex cases involving multiple parties or disputed liability may take longer.
Factors that can affect your timeline include:
- The complexity of the accident investigation
- The number of parties involved
- The strength of available evidence
- The willingness of insurance companies to negotiate
- Court scheduling and availability
Each case follows its own unique path, but having experienced legal representation can help keep your case moving forward efficiently.
The Maryland Wrongful Death Settlement Process
The settlement process typically begins after the liable party accepts responsibility or a court verdict is reached. This process involves several steps that can take weeks or months to complete.
Remember that rushing to settle your case too quickly can work against you. Insurance companies often make quick, low settlement offers, hoping families will accept less than they deserve. Taking the time to build your case properly helps ensure you receive fair compensation.
Signing the Release
Before any money changes hands, all parties must sign a settlement release. This legal document typically requires:
- Review by all attorneys involved
- Signatures from all beneficiaries
- Notarization of documents
- Court approval in certain cases
This step usually takes 2-4 weeks to complete.
Cutting the Check
Once the release is signed, the insurance company or defendant must process the payment. This typically takes 2-6 weeks, depending on the insurer’s procedures and whether multiple parties are involved.
Distribution of the Settlement Proceeds
The final distribution of funds involves several steps:
- Payment of outstanding medical bills and liens
- Deduction of attorney fees and costs
- Division among beneficiaries according to Maryland law
- Court approval of the distribution plan when required
This process typically takes 3-8 weeks after receiving the settlement check.
What Is My Wrongful Death Case Worth?
Each wrongful death case value depends on various factors, including:
- The deceased person’s age and earning capacity
- The financial dependence of surviving family members
- The circumstances of the death
- Available insurance coverage
- The strength of liability evidence
Our experienced attorneys will carefully evaluate all these factors to determine the potential value of your case. We’ll work diligently to maximize your compensation while keeping you informed throughout the process.
What Kind of Damages Are Available to Accident Victims?
Maryland law allows recovery of both economic and non-economic damages in wrongful death cases.
Economic damages include:
- Medical expenses before death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Lost wages and benefits
- Loss of future earnings
- Loss of inheritance
Non-economic damages cover:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship
- Emotional distress
- Loss of parental guidance
- Loss of consortium
Understanding these different types of damages is crucial for building a comprehensive wrongful death claim. Our team will help ensure that all applicable damages are properly documented and pursued in your case.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer?
We handle wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of the settlement or verdict amount.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Wrongful Death in Maryland?
Under Maryland’s statute of limitations, you generally have three years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. However, certain circumstances may shorten or extend this deadline. Don’t wait to seek legal help, as missing this deadline could bar your right to compensation.
Some special circumstances that might affect your filing deadline include:
- Cases involving government entities
- Deaths caused by medical malpractice
- Situations where the cause of death wasn’t immediately known
- Cases involving minor beneficiaries
The best way to protect your rights is to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after your loss. They can help ensure you meet all required deadlines.
If You Have Questions About How Long a Wrongful Death Lawsuit Takes, Contact Our Baltimore Wrongful Death Lawyers
When you’re ready to understand your legal options after losing a loved one in Baltimore, Maryland, WGK Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help. Our experienced Baltimore legal team will guide you through every step of the wrongful death process. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation with a Baltimore wrongful death lawyer.
