Overview of Massachusetts Accidental, Wrongful Death Law

A wrongful death claim filed by a lawyer or attorney in Massachusetts is a suit that arises from the death of an individual that was caused by the conduct of another. Under Massachusetts law, a wrongful death suit is different from other types of personal injury claims because the actual victim (the "decedent") is not bringing suit, rather it is the family members or the decedent's estate. As such, a wrongful death claim filed by a lawyer or attorney under Massachusetts law is brought to recover damages for the injuries that the surviving family and/or estate have suffered due to the death of the victim. The damages recovered do not include damages that are personal to the decedent, since the decedent is not allowed by law to recover for pain and suffering, mental distress, or any other form of compensatory damages unique to him or her. The purpose of a wrongful death suit under Massachusetts law is to provide relief to family members who have been injured emotionally and financially as a result of the family member's death.

To file a wrongful death suit in Massachusetts, you must show that:

• The death of a person was caused by a wrongful act, neglect or default
• The act, neglect or default would have entitled the injured person to file an action to recover damages had the death not occurred (M.G.L. Ch 229, § 2).
• There are surviving beneficiaries, children, or dependants of the victim (M.G.L. Ch 229, § 2.
• Monetary damages have resulted from the decedent’s death

Massachusetts law makes a distinction between persons who can file a wrongful death suit and persons who are beneficiaries. Only certain individuals can file wrongful death claims, and those that are allowed to sue do so on behalf of others. In Massachusetts, the executor or administrator of the deceased may file a suit on behalf of the surviving spouse, children or parents. Siblings and cousins of the decedent have no right of recovery so long as there is a surviving spouse, child, or parent of the decedent. If there is no surviving spouse, child or parent, however, may participate in the recovery through the estate. M.G.L. Ch 229, § 1.

In all matters involving Massachusetts wrongful death lawsuits it is essential that measures be taken promptly to preserve evidence, investigate the accident in question, and to file a lawsuit prior to the deadline imposed by the Massachusetts wrongful death statute of limitations. If a loved one has been a victim of wrongful death in Massachusetts, contact us now, CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT A SIMPLE CASE FORM. The initial consultation is free of charge, and if we agree to accept your case, we will work on a contingent fee basis, which means we get paid for our services only if there is a monetary award or recovery of funds. Don’t delay! You may have a valid claim and be entitled to compensation for your injuries, but a lawsuit must be filed before the Massachusetts wrongful death statute of limitations expires.

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