Compassionate counsel when negligence takes a life
No verdict can replace a loved one, but a civil action can deliver accountability and financial security. Castel & Hall LLP represents families after fatal crashes, unsafe property conditions, medical malpractice, or defective products across Massachusetts. Our Massachusetts wrongful death attorneys handle the legal load so you can focus on grieving and care.
Financial losses, companionship, and punitive exposure
Who files, deadlines, and how claims work
A wrongful death claim arises when negligence or misconduct causes death. Typically, the estate’s executor brings the case for the benefit of the family. Massachusetts generally allows three years to file, but timelines can vary, so early counsel matters. When the fatality stems from a car accident or another incident, we coordinate experts and evidence quickly to preserve proof.
Answers to Common Questions
Typically the estate’s personal representative files for the benefit of eligible family members. Appointment through probate may be required first.
Funeral/burial costs, loss of income/benefits, loss of companionship, and in certain egregious cases, punitive damages. Each family’s losses are evaluated individually.
They are separate. A criminal case can run in parallel; civil burdens of proof are lower. Criminal conviction is not required for civil recovery.
You can pursue all responsible parties (driver, employer, bar in dram-shop cases, product maker). Fault is apportioned among them.
Generally three years from death or discovery of negligence. Some government-related claims have shorter presentment requirements—act quickly.
Distribution follows statute and probate orders, considering relationships and dependency. Courts may review allocations for fairness.
Clear communication, steady advocacy
We manage insurers, defense counsel, and courts; prepare witnesses; and keep families informed at each milestone. Castel & Hall LLP offers meetings in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and Haitian Creole from our Framingham and Woburn offices or via Zoom.