The sudden loss of a loved one is devastating, especially when that death could have been prevented. Families facing the emotional and financial toll of a wrongful death deserve answers, accountability, and justice. At Brown Chiari LLP, our Amherst wrongful death lawyers help surviving family members hold the responsible parties accountable while pursuing the compensation they need to move forward.
Losing someone due to another’s negligence is more than a legal matter, it’s a deeply personal tragedy. Our attorneys provide the support, guidance, and experience families need during the most difficult times of their lives.
Under New York law, a wrongful death occurs when someone dies due to another party’s negligent, reckless, or intentional actions. These cases often involve car accidents, medical malpractice, truck accidents, construction incidents, or even unsafe property conditions.
Wrongful death claims are civil actions filed by a personal representative on behalf of the deceased person’s estate and surviving family members. These claims allow the family to pursue compensation for the losses caused by the victim’s death, financial and emotional alike.
It’s important to understand that not every accidental death qualifies as a wrongful death case. The key factors are whether the death was caused by someone else’s negligence and whether the surviving family members have suffered measurable losses as a result.

In New York, a wrongful death lawsuit must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate. This individual, often a surviving spouse, adult child, or parent, acts on behalf of all eligible beneficiaries, including surviving children and other family members who depended on the victim emotionally or financially.
The damages recovered in a wrongful death case are distributed to those beneficiaries according to New York’s estate laws. These claims aim to cover a wide range of losses, including funeral expenses, burial costs, lost wages, future earnings, medical bills incurred before the victim’s death, and emotional suffering endured by the family.
The emotional toll of losing a loved one is immeasurable. But the financial burden can also be overwhelming — especially when the deceased was a primary income earner or caregiver.
Wrongful death claims in Amherst can help surviving family members recover compensation for:
In some cases, punitive damages may be available if the responsible party’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious. These damages are meant to punish wrongful behavior and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Wrongful death claims involve legal complexities that most families aren’t prepared to face alone — especially while grieving. Insurance companies may pressure families to settle quickly, hoping to minimize their payout before the full extent of the financial and emotional loss is understood.
At Brown Chiari LLP, our wrongful death attorneys fight tirelessly on behalf of grieving families. We conduct thorough investigations, gather relevant documents such as police reports and medical records, and build strong claims that reflect the full impact of your loss. With deep experience in New York wrongful death law, we understand what’s at stake — and we work to protect your rights every step of the way.
Our legal team works diligently to secure fair settlements or take your case to trial when needed. We are here not just as legal advocates but as trusted partners during this incredibly painful chapter.
We offer a free consultation and handle wrongful death lawsuits on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Learn more about Amherst Wrongful Death Lawyer. Call Brown Chiari LLP at (716) 681-7190 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
A wrongful death case arises when someone dies due to another person or party’s negligent or intentional actions. These cases can involve car accidents, medical malpractice, unsafe property, or defective products.
Only the personal representative of the deceased’s estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit in New York. That representative may also distribute any compensation to surviving family members.
The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in New York is generally two years from the date of death. Some exceptions apply depending on the circumstances, so it's important to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
Damages may include funeral costs, burial expenses, lost future income, medical bills, emotional suffering, and loss of companionship or parental guidance. Each case is unique and evaluated individually.
Yes. A wrongful death claim is a civil matter and is separate from any criminal case. Even if criminal charges are pending or have been resolved, you can still seek compensation through a civil wrongful death lawsuit.