Maine Wrongful Death Lawyers Supporting Families After Tragic Loss
Compassionate Maine wrongful death lawyers in Bangor – VBK attorneys
Losing a loved one unexpectedly is one of the most painful experiences a family can face. When that loss results from someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, the grief can be compounded by difficult questions about responsibility, financial stability, and the future.
At VBK Law, our attorneys represent families across Maine pursuing wrongful death claims after fatal accidents. We are based in Bangor but serve clients throughout Downeast Maine, Aroostook County, and as far south as Portland. We help families seek accountability and financial protection during an incredibly difficult time.
Wrongful death cases at VBK Law are handled by experienced personal injury attorneys, including Lisa A. Cohen Lunn and Seth D. Harrow, who guide families through the legal process with care, patience, and attention to detail.
If you believe a loved one’s death may have been caused by negligence, speaking with an attorney can help you understand your rights under Maine law.
Call (207) 947-6915 to speak with a Maine wrongful death attorney.
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What Is a Wrongful Death Claim in Maine?
A wrongful death claim arises when a person dies as a result of another party’s negligence, recklessness, or misconduct. Maine law allows certain surviving family members or representatives of the deceased person’s estate to pursue a civil claim for damages.
These cases commonly arise from preventable incidents such as:
- Automobile accidents
- Truck accidents
- Motorcycle crashes
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace accidents
- Defective products
- Dangerous property conditions
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, thousands of people die each year in crashes involving large trucks, and the majority of those killed are occupants of smaller passenger vehicles rather than the truck itself.
This disparity highlights why negligent truck operation can have catastrophic, often fatal, consequences for other motorists.
Lastly, wrongful death lawsuits are civil claims. Their purpose is to provide financial compensation for the losses suffered by surviving family members and to hold responsible parties accountable for negligent conduct.
Understanding Maine’s Wrongful Death Laws
Wrongful death claims in Maine are governed by Title 18-C §2-807 of the Maine Revised Statutes, which outlines who may bring a claim and how damages are distributed. In most cases, the claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate on behalf of surviving family members.
These cases often involve detailed investigation, medical records, accident reconstruction, and expert testimony to determine whether negligence caused the fatal injury.
At VBK Law, attorneys Lisa A. Cohen Lunn and Seth D. Harrow guide families through this legal process with careful investigation, clear communication, and a commitment to protecting the interests of surviving spouses, children, and other loved ones.
Who Handles Wrongful Death Cases at VBK Law?
Wrongful death claims at VBK Law are handled by experienced personal injury attorneys, including Lisa A. Cohen Lunn and Seth D. Harrow.
Based in Bangor, both attorneys work with people or families throughout Maine seeking answers after the loss of a loved one caused by negligence.
Lisa A. Cohen Lunn has practiced law in Maine for decades and represents clients in complex personal injury matters, including wrongful death claims arising from fatal accidents and medical negligence.
Seth D. Harrow likewise assists people across Bangor, Downeast Maine, Aroostook County, and the Portland region who are navigating the legal and financial consequences of a preventable loss.
Together, they help families investigate the circumstances surrounding a fatal incident, determine whether negligence played a role, and pursue compensation through settlement or litigation when appropriate.
Damages Available in Maine Wrongful Death Cases
Wrongful death claims are intended to address both the financial and personal losses suffered by surviving family members.
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical costs related to the fatal injury
- Loss of financial support that the deceased would have provided
- Loss of companionship, guidance, and emotional support
- Loss of household services
Investigating Fatal Accidents and Building a Case
Wrongful death cases often require a detailed investigation to determine how the fatal event occurred and whether negligence played a role.
At VBK Law, our attorneys may work with accident reconstruction specialists, medical experts, and other professionals to examine evidence such as:
- Police reports
- Medical records
- Witness statements
- Expert analysis
- Insurance documentation
Wrongful Death Claims and Personal Injury Law in Maine
Wrongful death cases are closely related to other personal injury claims. In many situations, the underlying incident – such as a car crash, medical error, or workplace accident – would have been a personal injury claim if the injured person had survived.
Understanding the broader personal injury legal framework can help you better understand how wrongful death claims work and what legal options may be available.
Wrongful Death FAQs in Maine
1. Who can file a wrongful death claim in Maine?
Wrongful death claims are typically brought by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate on behalf of surviving family members. The specific parties entitled to recover damages depend on Maine law and the circumstances of the case.
Because wrongful death claims are typically brought by the estate’s personal representative, families may also need to open an estate through the Maine Judicial Branch Probate Courts.
2. How long do I have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in Maine?
Maine law imposes strict deadlines for filing wrongful death claims. Missing these deadlines can prevent a family from pursuing compensation, which is why speaking with an attorney early is important.
3. What damages can families recover in a wrongful death case?
Damages may include funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and medical expenses related to the fatal injury.
4. Is a wrongful death case the same as a criminal case?
No. Wrongful death claims are civil lawsuits. They are separate from any criminal charges that may arise from the same incident.
5. Do all wrongful death cases go to trial?
Many wrongful death claims resolve through negotiated settlements. However, preparing a case for trial is often an important part of achieving a fair outcome.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Speak With a Maine Wrongful Death Lawyer
Families facing the loss of a loved one deserve experienced legal guidance delivered with care and respect.
Lisa A. Cohen Lunn and Seth D. Harrow are Bangor, Maine, attorneys at VBK Law who represent families pursuing wrongful death claims throughout the state. They help families across Bangor, Downeast Maine, Aroostook County, and the Portland region understand their legal options and pursue wrongful death claims when negligence has caused a fatal loss.
If you have questions about a potential wrongful death claim, speaking with an attorney may help clarify the next steps.
Call (207) 947-6915 for a no-obligation consultation with a Maine wrongful death lawyer.
Wrongful Death Related
Accidents
In Maine, auto accidents can range from fender benders to life-altering collisions to death.
Medical Malpractice
Medical malpractice refers to professional negligence by healthcare providers, resulting in harm or injury to patients.
Personal Injury
If you’ve been injured due to another party’s negligence in Maine, you should call a lawyer immediately.