How Long Does It Take to Settle a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Losing a loved one due to negligence is devastating, and pursuing justice through a wrongful death lawsuit can be a challenging process. One of the families’ most common concerns is how long the case will take to resolve. While some instances settle in months, others can take years, depending on the circumstances. At The Law Offices of Kim Parker, P.A., we advocate for families in Maryland and Washington, D.C., working to secure the compensation they deserve as efficiently as possible.

What Affects the Timeline of a Wrongful Death Case?

Several factors influence how long a wrongful death case takes. Some cases move quickly, while others require more time due to legal complexities and opposing arguments.

• Strength of Evidence—When liability is clear, cases often settle faster. However, gathering expert testimony and conducting investigations can delay the process if disputes arise over fault.
  
• Insurance Company Strategies – Insurers often use delay tactics, offering low settlements or denying claims outright. Legal representation ensures families are not pressured into accepting unfair offers.
  
• Court Scheduling and Legal Delays – If a lawsuit is filed, procedural motions, discovery phases, and court dates can extend the timeline, especially if the court has a backlog of cases.
  
• Settlement vs. Trial – Many cases settle outside of court, but when negotiations fail, a trial becomes necessary, significantly extending the time it takes to reach a resolution.

Our firm has experience handling wrongful death and personal injury cases, ensuring families receive the compensation they deserve without unnecessary delays.

Is It Better to Settle or Go to Trial?

Each case is unique, and while settlements are often preferred for their efficiency, some instances require litigation to achieve justice.

• Settlement – The majority of wrongful death claims settle outside of court, often within six months to a year. A settlement allows families to avoid the emotional toll and uncertainty of a trial while still securing financial compensation.
  
• Trial – If negotiations fail, a wrongful death lawsuit may go to trial, extending the process to two or more years. While trials take longer, they can lead to higher compensation, especially in cases involving egregious negligence.

Our attorneys have successfully handled both settlements and litigation. Families seeking guidance can learn more about our legal team’s experience in wrongful death cases.

Stages of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Understanding the legal process can help families know what to expect when pursuing a wrongful death claim.

• Case Investigation and Filing (1–6 Months) – This phase involves gathering evidence, medical records, accident reports, and expert testimony before officially filing the lawsuit.
  
• Discovery and Negotiations (6–18 Months) – Attorneys exchange information, take depositions, and present evidence. Many cases are settled during this period if strong evidence supports the claim.
  
• Trial Preparation and Court Proceedings (1–2 Years) – If no settlement is reached, attorneys prepare for trial, which involves filing legal motions, selecting jurors, and presenting the case in court.

Families deserve strong legal representation throughout every stage of the process. Our firm provides comprehensive legal services for wrongful death and personal injury claims.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Wrongful death lawsuits require a skilled legal team to challenge insurance companies, negotiate fair settlements, and handle litigation when necessary. Without legal guidance, families may accept unfair settlements or face delays in securing compensation. Wrongful death claims involve medical expenses, funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. 

Baltimore nursing home neglect attorney fights for full compensation while providing compassionate legal support. Seeking representation early in the process can help prevent unnecessary delays.

Work With a Trusted Wrongful Death Attorney

Holding negligent parties accountable is essential for achieving justice. Whether negotiating settlements or preparing for trial, families deserve strong legal representation to protect their rights. At The Law Offices of Kim Parker, P.A., we provide dedicated advocacy for those who have lost loved ones due to negligence, ensuring they receive fair compensation and financial security during difficult times.
Wrongful death lawsuits can be legally and emotionally challenging, but having the right legal team makes all the difference. Baltimore nursing home wrongful death lawyer provides dedicated representation for families throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C., ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve. If you need legal support, schedule a consultation today.