Blue sky with scattered white cumulus clouds.

Losing a loved one is heartbreaking, and it hurts more when someone else caused it. The Law Office of William Burgess PA helps families in La Plata and across Southern Maryland with wrongful death claims. We listen first. Then we explain your options in plain language.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim? 

A wrongful death claim is a civil case. It may apply when a person dies because of someone else's careless or wrongful act.

This claim is separate from any criminal case. A criminal case punishes the wrongdoer. A wrongful death claim seeks financial help for the family left behind.

Common Causes of Wrongful Death 

  • Car, motorcycle, and truck crashes
  • Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
  • Falls caused by unsafe property
  • Other careless or wrongful acts

Who Can File in Maryland 

Maryland law sets rules about who may bring a claim. A spouse, children, and parents of the person who died are the main family members who may file. In some cases, other relatives who depended on the person may also qualify.



Every family is different. We review your situation and explain who may file.

What Compensation May Cover 

Depending on your case, a claim may help with:

  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Medical bills from the final injury
  • Income and benefits your loved one would have provided
  • Loss of care, guidance, and companionship
  • The emotional pain your family has suffered

How a Wrongful Death Claim Works 

  1. We meet with you and listen to your story.
  2. We look into what happened and gather the records.
  3. We deal with insurance companies and other parties.
  4. We seek a fair settlement, or we take your case to court.

The Deadline to File 

Maryland usually gives families three years from the date of death to file. That may sound like a long time. Still, evidence can disappear, and memories fade. Please call us as early as you feel ready.

Taking the First Step 

You may not feel ready to think about a legal claim. That is okay. A first call does not commit you to anything.

We can answer your questions and explain the deadline. Then you decide when and how to move forward. We follow your lead and respect your pace.

How We Support Families 

We know that no amount of money can bring someone back. Still, a claim can ease financial strain. It can also hold the responsible party accountable.

We handle the legal work so you can focus on your family. We take wrongful death cases on a contingency fee. That means you pay nothing unless we recover for you.

Questions Families Ask Us 

  • What if Criminal Charges Were Filed?

    A wrongful death claim and a criminal case are separate. We explain how one may affect the other. You do not have to figure this out alone.

  • How Long Will the Case Take?

    Every case is different. Some settle in months, and others take longer. We tell you what to expect and keep you updated.

  • Experience You Can Lean On

    William Burgess has practiced in Southern Maryland for more than 30 years. He worked for an insurance company before he represented injured people. He knows how insurers handle these claims. We treat every family with respect, patience, and care.

Your family does not have to face this alone. Call the Law Office of William Burgess PA at (301) 645-3261 for a free, caring consultation.