Wrongful Death Attorney in Boston, MA
If your loved one has lost their life due to the negligence, recklessness, or misconduct of another, you have the right to seek justice. At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston wrongful death lawyers stand by families during their most painful moments, helping them pursue legal action with dignity, strength, and purpose.
Serving clients across Massachusetts - including Boston and Pembroke
Why Choose Dolan Connly, P.C. for Your Wrongful Death Case?
Wrongful death claims are among the most emotionally challenging and legally complex cases in personal injury law. Our wrongful death lawyers approach these matters with the seriousness, compassion, and dedication they deserve. When families place their trust in us, we honor that trust by delivering experienced advocacy and unwavering commitment to accountability.
This is why families across Massachusetts turn to the wrongful death attorneys at
Dolan Connly, P.C.:
- Extensive Wrongful Death Experience: We have decades of experience handling fatal accident claims, ranging from car crashes to medical negligence and workplace fatalities.
- Veteran-Owned Values: Integrity and accountability are at the core of our legal practice. We stand firm in the face of powerful insurance companies and negligent institutions.
- Full-Service Representation: We handle everything from investigating liability to negotiating with insurers and litigating in court, allowing your family to focus on healing.
- Family-Focused Support: We understand the weight of grief. Our representation is not only strategic—it is personal, patient, and compassionate.
But our support doesn’t stop at the legal process. We know that grieving families need more than a lawyer. They need someone who listens, explains, and stands by their side. Our representation is as compassionate as it is strategic, ensuring you never feel alone in the fight for answers, accountability, and fair compensation.
At Dolan Connly, P.C., we are proud to be the firm that families turn to when justice matters most, and we are honored to carry that trust forward with every wrongful death case we handle in Boston.
Dolan Connly, P.C.’s Wrongful Death Case Results
$1,006,330.03
Greg Connly of DOLAN CONNLY represented a client who was a former MBTA trolley operator and a member of the affiliated Union. She alleged in her lawsuit filed in Suffolk Superior Court that the Union had not advocated for her by failing to take her case to arbitration after she was wrongfully terminated by the MBTA. The client was a native of Haiti and alleged that this failure by the Union to advocate on her behalf, was based on her race and national origin. The client had been the subject of egregious discrimination from some members of the Union.
The trial began on October 29, 2018 in Suffolk Superior Court. The jury found in favor of the client and awarded her $490,500.00 in emotional distress damages. Prejudgment interest of $179,771.19 and statutory costs were added to the verdict bringing the total amount of the judgment to $670,556.19. The Judge then allowed an additional award of attorney’s fees in the amount of $150,000.00 plus $8,733.40 in costs. The total amount of the judgment and fees owed to the client after the Superior Court trial was $829,289.59. The Union then appealed the verdict to the Massachusetts Court of Appeals. Greg Connly represented the client during the entire appeal process. On August 4, 2020, a decision came down from the Massachusetts Appeals Court. The Appeals Court upheld the Superior Court judgment. Further, the Appeals Court awarded attorney’s fees in the Appeals Court case in the amount of $27,355.00. Post-judgment interest that accrued during the appeal was also added.
On November 24, 2020, the Union paid to the client the amount of $1,006,330.03.
This case that was handled by Attorney Greg Connly of DOLAN CONNLY went from one on the verge of dismissal, to one in which there was a recovery in excess of a million dollars. No settlement offer had ever been made by the Union prior to the Superior Court trial.
$4,426,180.35
Greg Connly of DOLAN CONNLY tried a case in September of 2018 in the Worcester Superior Court. The case alleged chiropractic malpractice. The plaintiff/client was an 81-year-old gentleman who had a manipulation to adjust his pelvis done by the defendant/chiropractor. The negligent performance of this manipulation resulted in the breaking of his prosthetic knee. The client reported that he heard an audible popping sound and felt immediate pain at the time of the adjustment. The prosthetic knee had to be surgically repaired fourteen days later. The chiropractor testified that he had no memory of the treatment and he testified that he did not perform the adjustment described by the client. Greg Connly and Barbara Connly of DOLAN CONNLY worked on the case for over seven years. During the trial, Greg Connly put together the facts and expert testimony supporting the client’s position into a coherent credible case for the jury.
On September 14, 2018, the Worcester Superior Court jury came back with a verdict in favor of the plaintiff/client. DOLAN CONNLY’S client was awarded $750,000.00 in past and future medical expenses and $3,000,000.00 in pain and suffering. Including interest, the total judgment was $4,426,180.35. No offer had ever been made by the defense to settle the case. The verdict was appealed by the defense attorney. The case resolved during the appeal process with the 88-year-old client receiving a significant financial settlement, above and beyond any other comparable Massachusetts settlement or verdict for such injuries. Click here to see the actual court docket.
$3,680,187.78
Greg Connly of DOLAN CONNLY tried a case in the Brockton Superior Court in November of 2011. The plaintiff/client was a forty-two-year-old chef working for a third-party food service company at the defendant’s corporate cafeteria. The plaintiff sustained an electric shock when a dishwasher, provided for his use by the defendant, malfunctioned when he pressed the off button on the control panel. The machine was leaking water that came in contact with a live electrical circuit behind the control panel. Greg Connly was able to prove at trial that the defendant corporation was responsible for maintenance of the dishwasher and that it was in a hazardous and unsafe condition. It was discovered that the dishwasher had various mechanical problems after its initial installation and employees of the defendant failed to properly maintain it. The plaintiff suffered a traumatic brain injury, major depression, panic disorder, cognitive impairment and post-traumatic stress disorder. Following the electric shock, the plaintiff who had received excellent work reviews over the years, struggled at his job due to the effects of the traumatic brain injury. He never regained his previous high-level functioning in his occupation and was forced to stop working altogether.
On November 29, 2011, the Brockton Superior Court jury came back with a verdict in favor of the plaintiff/client. DOLAN CONNLY’S client was awarded $2,500,000.00 in past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost earning capacity. Including interest in the amount of $1,180,187.78, the final award was $3,680,187.78. The last offer by the defendant corporation to settle the case before trial was $50,000.00. The verdict was appealed by the defense, but the judgement was paid in full after the trial transcripts were reviewed by appellate counsel. Click here to see the actual court docket.
$475,000.00
A client from Reading was injured when his vehicle was struck by another vehicle traveling in the wrong direction on a one-way street. Our client suffered a worsening of a pre-existing cervical disc protrusion that required surgical repair, as well as injuries to his lower back. He received an insurance claim settlement of $475,000.00. This amount represented the total motor vehicle insurance policy limit for the at-fault driver in the amount of $250,000.00, plus $225,000.00 from an umbrella insurance policy.
$750,000.00
A client from Windham, NH sustained a dog bite in the course of his employment as an electrician. The client was working on an electrical project outside a home when he was asked by the homeowner to enter the home to look at another project. The homeowner did not restrain his Weimaraner dog while our client was in the home, despite knowing the dog was not comfortable with unfamiliar people being present in the residence. When our client was in the process of walking from one room to another, the dog unexpectedly bit him in the back of his leg. The client tried to get the dog to unlock its grip on his leg and in the process, he twisted his back. In addition to the dog bite, the client sustained significant injuries to his low back, hip and groin, including radiating pain into his legs and feet. The client underwent treatment including fusion surgery to his back and hip surgery to repair a labral tear. We represented the client in litigation filed against the homeowner. This litigation was settled during mediation for $750,000.00.
Our personal injury lawyers in Boston have achieved significant financial recoveries for families devastated by the loss of a loved one. Through meticulous case preparation and relentless advocacy, we have obtained settlements and verdicts that account for the profound emotional trauma, loss of companionship, lost income, funeral expenses, and the lasting impact on surviving family members.
What Damages Can You Claim in a Wrongful Death Claim in Boston?
Under Massachusetts law (M.G.L. c. 229, § 2), wrongful death claims may be brought by the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate. These claims seek compensation for both economic and non-economic losses resulting from the wrongful act.
A wrongful death attorney at Dolan Connly, P.C. will carefully assess all forms of recoverable damages, including:
- Lost Economic Support and Net Income: Compensation for the financial contributions the deceased would likely have provided to dependents over their lifetime.
- Fair Monetary Value of Services: This encompasses the worth of protection, care, assistance, guidance, advice, companionship, and other forms of support that the decedent provided.
- Funeral and Burial Costs: Reasonable expenses for burial, cremation, and other final services are fully recoverable.
- Conscious Pain and Suffering: If the decedent experienced conscious pain, suffering, or fear before their death, this is compensable as part of the estate.
- Non-Economic Damages for Survivors: Compensation for loss of companionship, emotional support, guidance, and consortium to surviving family members is available.
- Punitive Damages: In cases involving gross negligence or willful, wanton, or reckless behavior, punitive damages of at least $5,000.00 may be awarded to penalize the defendant and deter similar misconduct
Our wrongful death attorneys work closely with financial analysts, medical professionals, and grief counselors in Boston to capture the full extent of your loss. This includes not only the economic impact but also the emotional and societal consequences that follow a wrongful death.
Every life has value, and we fight to ensure the court recognizes and understands that value in its entirety. From lost income to shattered futures, from final medical costs to the silent void left behind, a wrongful death lawyer at Dolan Connly, P.C. will build a case that honors your loved one and demands justice in every form it can take.
Types of Wrongful Death Cases We Handle at
Dolan Connly, P.C.
At Dolan Connly, P.C., our Boston wrongful death attorneys have helped families pursue justice after losing loved ones under a wide range of tragic circumstances. Our experience spans:
- Fatal car and motorcycle accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Workplace and construction site accidents
- Premises liability
- Defective products
- Nursing home negligence or abuse
- Criminal acts leading to death
Every case we handle is unique, and we tailor our legal strategy to fit its specific circumstances. We listen closely to your story and conduct exhaustive investigations by gathering police reports, medical records, expert opinions, and other critical evidence to build a personalized plan aimed at securing full compensation for your physical, financial, and emotional losses.
At Dolan Connly, P.C., we work tirelessly to honor your loved one’s legacy and protect your family’s future. Contact a wrongful death lawyer in Boston today to discuss your case.
Taking Action After a Wrongful Death in Boston, MA
Losing someone you love is sudden, devastating, and often overwhelming. Yet knowing which steps to take immediately can preserve crucial evidence, protect your legal rights, and ease the path toward accountability.
While no legal action can undo your loss, taking proper steps can safeguard your family’s future and bring closure during one of the most difficult times of your life.
1. Obtain the Death Certificate and Appoint a Personal Representative, if Needed
An executor is previously named in a will, while a personal representative (sometimes called an administrator) must be officially appointed by the probate court if a person dies without a will. Only an executor or personal representative/administrator has legal standing to file a wrongful death claim under Massachusetts law.
2. Collect Key Documentation
Gather all relevant records, including hospital or medical reports, police or incident reports, autopsy findings, workplace safety audits, or any documentation relating to the death. Early collection supports a strong case.
3. Preserve Physical Evidence and Witness Information
Take photos of the scene, save messages or emails related to the incident, and gather contact information for witnesses while the memories are still fresh. This early groundwork prevents critical evidence from disappearing.
4. Avoid Early Communication with Insurers
Insurance companies may attempt to record statements or make early offers. You have no obligation to speak with them, and doing so could diminish your future compensation. Let your attorney handle these discussions.
5. Consult a Boston Wrongful Death Lawyer Promptly
In Massachusetts, wrongful death claims must be filed within three years of the incident causing the death or within three years from the date it should have been discovered that the incident caused the death. Early legal intervention ensures crucial evidence is protected and your rights are secured.
Taking swift and informed action empowers families to build a comprehensive case. Proper documentation, legal representation, and evidence preservation can make the difference between a successful lawsuit and one that falls short.
We advance all costs.
You pay nothing unless we secure compensation for your injuries.
How a Wrongful Death Attorney in Boston Will Handle Your Case
At Dolan Connly, P.C., we know that wrongful death claims involve complex legal requirements and strict procedural rules that must be followed precisely to preserve your right to compensation. Our lawyers navigate these complexities on your behalf, ensuring no legal detail is overlooked and that your case is built on the strongest possible foundation.
Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
The journey begins with a confidential consultation where we listen to your story, understand the circumstances surrounding your loved one’s death, and assess the viability of your case. During this meeting, we will outline your legal options and potential outcomes, enabling you to make informed decisions.
Thorough Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Our team conducts a meticulous investigation to gather all pertinent evidence, including medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage. We collaborate with experts, including accident reconstructionists and medical professionals, to build a robust case that establishes liability.
Legal Strategy Development
Based on the gathered evidence, we develop a personalized legal strategy tailored to your case. This includes identifying all responsible parties, calculating the full extent of your damages, and determining the best course of action, whether through negotiation or litigation.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Our wrongful death attorneys handle all communications with insurance companies on your behalf. We aim to secure a fair settlement that reflects the true value of your losses. If the insurer offers a settlement that does not adequately compensate you, we are prepared to proceed to trial to ensure your interests are fully represented.
Trial Representation
Should your case go to trial, our litigators are ready to present a compelling case before a judge and jury. We utilize expert testimony, physical evidence, and persuasive arguments to advocate for your family’s rights and seek the maximum compensation available under the law.
Ongoing Support and Communication
Throughout the legal process, we maintain open lines of communication, providing you with regular updates and answering any questions you may have. Our goal is to alleviate your burdens, allowing you to focus on healing while we handle the complexities of your case.
If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct, contact Dolan Connly, P.C. to begin discussing your case.
Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations in Massachusetts
Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 229 § 2, wrongful death claims must be filed within three years of the decedent’s date of death, or within three years from when the executor or administrator knew or should have known about the wrongful nature of the death under the “discovery rule.”
Time is of the essence. Critical evidence can disappear, memories fade, and legal deadlines can expire. Speak to a Boston wrongful death lawyer at Dolan Connly, P.C. today to preserve your claim and protect your family’s rights.
How to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Boston, MA
Filing a wrongful death lawsuit in Massachusetts involves a series of procedural and legal steps governed by strict state laws. Understanding the technical requirements is essential to preserving your claim and maximizing the likelihood of a successful outcome.
1. Appointment of the Personal Representative
Massachusetts law requires that a wrongful death lawsuit be filed by the executor or personal representative of the deceased’s estate. The Probate and Family Court must formally appoint this individual before any legal action can proceed. The process includes filing a petition to open probate and may involve notice to heirs and creditors.
2. Determining Legal Grounds
The executor/personal representative must establish that a wrongful act, negligence, or breach of duty by another party caused the death. This typically involves identifying potential defendants and determining whether their actions meet the legal threshold for liability under M.G.L. c. 229, § 2.
3. Preparation and Filing of the Complaint
A lawsuit is initiated by drafting and filing a Complaint in the appropriate Massachusetts Superior Court. The complaint must clearly state the factual basis for the claim, identify the responsible parties, and specify the types of damages sought on behalf of the estate and survivors.
4. Serving the Defendants
Once filed, the Complaint must be properly served on each named defendant within the time frame allowed by the Massachusetts Rules of Civil Procedure. Improper or delayed service can result in dismissal.
5. Discovery and Evidence Exchange
During discovery, both parties are required to share relevant documents, answer interrogatories, and participate in depositions. This phase is critical for gathering expert testimony, medical records, and evidence that will support the wrongful death claim in court.
6. Pretrial Proceedings and Settlement Discussions
Many cases resolve before trial through motions or negotiated settlements. Courts may also require mediation. Any settlement reached on behalf of the estate must typically be approved by the probate court to ensure it is in the best interest of the beneficiaries.
7. Trial
If settlement is not possible, the case proceeds to trial. A judge or jury will hear the evidence, determine liability, and assess damages. The burden of proof is on the plaintiff to show that the defendant’s conduct is more likely than not to have caused the death.
Filing a wrongful death lawsuit is not simply a matter of paperwork. It involves complex procedural steps, a strategic legal approach, and adherence to strict timelines. To avoid costly errors and ensure full legal compliance, contact a Boston wrongful death attorney at Dolan Connly, P.C. today.
H2: Boston Wrongful Death Client Testimonials
The legal council I received from Dolan Connly starting with the initial office visit to the settlement of my personal injury case was very helpful when I needed it most. They helped me navigate all the options and told me in plain English what to expect. I was a cooperative client and provided them with all the documentation they required and was patient allowing the legal process to unfold all of which they appreciated. Given the extent of damages I incurred from the accident I was pleased with the total compensation I received. Kathleen Allen has been our attorney for a few properties and we have sold and have been very happy and satisfied with her professional care in these transactions. There is a very easy way about her, as these things can be very stressful. She was always right there for any concerns or questions that we had. I would highly recommend her to my friends and family. I have closed on two houses with Dolan Connly in the past 10 years. In July 2022, I worked with Kathleen Allen on a closing and was extremely impressed with her professionalism, honestly, and attention to detail. She was the only party to notice a trust was expiring weeks before the planned closing date. Her keen eye resulted in the seller extending the trust and preventing a delay in the closing. -Sam Excellent service ! Barry McIsaac was prompt and effective in dealing my claim case. We need more attorneys like him to help hold big companies accountable. I’d recommend Barry and the Dolan Connly firm to anyone. I worked with Kathleen Allen to purchase my first home in Boston and she was incredible! The seller and I were not working with real estate agents, but Kathleen went above and beyond to make the closing process smooth. I was able to close on time due to her advocating and watching over me. I could not have bought this home without her help. I highly recommend anyone looking for a knowledgeable, quick, and advocating attorney to contact her to purchase a home.
Schedule a Consultation with a Lawyer Today
At Dolan Connly, P.C., we know that taking legal action after a tragic loss can feel overwhelming. That is why we provide clear guidance, vigorous advocacy, and unwavering support from the start. If you have questions about your rights or think your loved one’s death may have been preventable, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
FAQ: Boston Wrongful Death Attorney
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions by families in Massachusetts who are considering legal action after the untimely death of a loved one.
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Boston, MA?
In Boston, MA, only the executor or personal representative of the deceased person’s estate can file a wrongful death lawsuit. This individual is either named in the decedent’s will or appointed by the probate court. Although this individual files the claim, any compensation awarded is distributed to the decedent’s legal beneficiaries, such as a spouse, children, or parents, depending on the family structure and applicable state inheritance laws.
How long do I have to file a wrongful death claim in Boston?
Massachusetts imposes a strict three-year statute of limitations on wrongful death lawsuits. This three-year clock typically begins on the date of death. However, suppose the wrongful nature of the death was not immediately known. In that case, the statute may begin on the date that the executor or personal representative reasonably should have discovered the connection between the death and another party’s misconduct. Failing to file within this timeframe can permanently bar your right to recover damages, which is why early legal guidance is essential.
What must be proven to win a Boston wrongful death case?
To prevail in a wrongful death claim, you must prove that the defendant owed a duty of care to the deceased, that this duty was breached through negligent or intentional conduct, and that this breach directly caused the death. In addition, the claim must establish that the decedent’s estate and surviving family members suffered harm as a result. Building a successful case requires collecting substantial evidence, including expert opinions, to support each of these elements.
Can a surviving family member receive compensation directly?
Yes. Although the estate files the lawsuit, compensation is typically distributed to eligible family members. For example, a surviving spouse or children may be entitled to financial recovery for loss of consortium, emotional suffering, and loss of financial support. The court follows Massachusetts inheritance and wrongful death statutes to determine how any settlement or judgment is allocated among survivors.
Is a wrongful death case the same as a personal injury case?
Wrongful death and personal injury cases share similarities in that both seek compensation for harm caused by another’s negligence or wrongdoing. However, a wrongful death case arises only after a person has died and is brought on behalf of the deceased’s estate. The legal procedures and types of recoverable damages differ significantly, as wrongful death involves additional considerations such as inheritance rights, estate administration, and future lost earnings.
Can I sue for wrongful death in a workplace accident in Boston?
If the death occurred during the course of employment, the primary remedy is typically through Massachusetts workers’ compensation. However, there are exceptions. If a third party—such as a contractor, property owner, or equipment manufacturer—contributed to the death, a separate wrongful death claim may be filed against that party. These cases often involve complex liability questions that require thorough investigation and legal analysis.
Do I have to pay legal fees upfront to hire a wrongful death attorney?
At Dolan Connly, P.C., we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you do not pay any legal fees unless your case results in a settlement or jury award. The firm advances the costs of litigation and is only reimbursed if the claim is successful. This fee arrangement ensures that families have access to legal representation without additional financial strain during an already difficult time.
What happens if the deceased had no will?
If the deceased did not leave a will, the probate court will appoint a personal representative (sometimes called an administrator) to represent the estate. This person has the same legal authority as an executor and can pursue a wrongful death claim on behalf of the estate. Any financial recovery will then be distributed to the next of kin in accordance with Massachusetts intestacy laws, which govern the division of assets when there is no will.
When should I speak with a wrongful death attorney?
It is in your best interest to speak with a wrongful death lawyer in Boston as soon as possible after your loved one’s death. Early legal involvement helps ensure that evidence is preserved, witnesses are identified, and deadlines are met. A knowledgeable attorney can assess your options, protect your rights, and help you make informed decisions about whether to pursue a lawsuit. Delaying this conversation could result in missed opportunities or legal complications.
What if I’m unable to travel to your Boston office?
We understand that serious injuries can make it difficult to leave home or a medical facility. If you are unable to visit us, we are happy to meet you at a location that works for you. Our goal is to make the legal process as easy and accessible as possible.
