Connecticut Wrongful Death Attorneys
Wrongful Death Lawyer in Connecticut
No amount of money can replace the loved one you lost. But a wrongful death claim can provide real financial support and a measure of accountability. Moore, O’Brien & Foti serves families across Connecticut in the aftermath of a preventable death.
Fatal Accident Lawyers Serving Families Across the State
Anytime a loved one dies prematurely, the grief can be overwhelming, and the loss is something you may never fully get over. In these times, you may have questions about whether your family can recover compensation. We've helped numerous families in the aftermath of a serious loss, representing survivors in wrongful death claims arising from truck accidents, car accidents, aviation accidents, deaths caused by defective products, and medical malpractice.
We understand the inherent limits of any wrongful death action — no amount of money replaces the love and support of your loved one. But a wrongful death claim can provide your family with real financial support during a difficult time, and some measure of vindication against those responsible for your loss.
Under Connecticut law, a wrongful death claim can provide damages for lost earning capacity, any conscious pain and suffering your loved one experienced, and compensation for their "loss of capacity to enjoy life's activities." We work with experts, such as economists, to calculate these projected losses — and we make sure insurance companies, and if necessary a judge and jury, understand the deeply personal nature of what your family lost.
Who Can Actually File a Wrongful Death Claim
Not Family Members Directly
The Estate Must File
Under CGS § 52-555, only the executor or administrator of the deceased's estate can bring a wrongful death claim — unlike many other states that allow family members to file directly. Recovery is still distributed to the family, but the estate representative must be the one to pursue it.
Filing Deadline
2 Years From the Date of Death
You generally have two years from the date of death, not the date of the underlying accident, to file a claim under CGS § 52-555.
What Counts as Grounds
Any Negligent, Reckless, or Intentional Act
If your loved one would have had grounds for a personal injury claim had they survived, your family likely has grounds for a wrongful death claim now.
Contact Our Connecticut Wrongful Death Lawyers
Call (203) 586-0022 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation. Moore, O’Brien & Foti is based in Middlebury and represents families throughout Connecticut on a contingency basis.
Common Questions About Wrongful Death Claims
Can I file the claim myself as a surviving spouse or child?
Not directly. Connecticut requires the executor or administrator of the deceased's estate to bring the claim under CGS § 52-555. If your loved one didn't name an executor, a probate court can appoint one — often a close family member.
What compensation can a wrongful death claim recover?
Connecticut law allows damages for lost earning capacity, any conscious pain and suffering the decedent experienced before death, and compensation for their lost capacity to enjoy life's activities.
How long do we have to file?
Generally two years from the date of death under CGS § 52-555 — not the date of the underlying accident, which may have happened earlier if your loved one survived for some time before passing.
What if we haven't opened an estate yet?
Since only the estate's executor or administrator can file the claim, opening the estate promptly matters — delays here can eat into the two-year filing window. An attorney can help you get this process moving quickly.