Portland, ME Wrongful Death Lawyers

Losing someone you love because of another's negligence can leave you overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for justice. At Berman & Simmons, we have supported grieving families in Portland, throughout Cumberland County, and across Maine for over a century, standing by them during their darkest times. Our legal team advocates for clients in court hearings and negotiations, achieving results that provide families with closure and financial stability. 

Across all practice areas, we have secured more than $1.5 billion in compensation, including numerous life-changing, multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts for wrongful death and the loss of the relationship with a loved one. If you have been thinking about making a claim, put your trust in our firm. We offer free consultations, during which you can tell your story, learn about your legal options, and find out your next steps for seeking justice. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not owe legal fees unless we win your case. 

To speak with our Portland wrongful death lawyers, call (207) 383-3216 or get in touch through our online contact form. Virtual consultations are available for your convenience.

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Maine?

In Maine, wrongful death claims do not go directly through family members. State law instead requires the personal representative of the deceased person’s estate to bring the lawsuit. This representative usually appears in the person’s will. If there’s no will, the court can appoint a representative.

Because of this rule, families often have questions about how to proceed. For example:

1. If there are multiple possible representatives, disputes may arise over who has the right to file.
2. Family members may disagree on whether to move forward with legal action.
3. Sometimes, no representative has been appointed yet, and families need guidance on taking the first step.

If you face any of these situations, our firm can help. We routinely assist clients in appointing representatives, resolving disputes, and filing claims correctly. Our team clarifies the process so your family can focus on healing. 

Portland-area families often ask how the personal representative’s location affects the process. While the representative generally acts for the whole family, cases involving assets or relatives living outside Maine may require extra coordination, which can influence the case timeline or complexity. Our familiarity with local protocols allows us to address any challenges specific to Portland and nearby communities.

Maine's Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations

In Maine, wrongful death cases typically must be filed within three years of the deceased’s passing. However, certain circumstances, such as those involving homicide, may allow up to six years. For deaths that occurred prior to October 25, 2023, Maine law allows only 2 years to file a wrongful death lawsuit. 

For more detailed information about these deadlines and what actions you must take to preserve your right to seek compensation, contact Berman & Simmons.

Understanding Each Step in a Portland Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Most families want to know what to expect at every stage of a wrongful death lawsuit, especially in Portland where local laws and court schedules can influence the process. After the personal representative starts the claim, the next steps often include collecting records, identifying defendants, and preparing evidence. Our team reviews police reports, witness statements, and expert opinions to build a case tailored to each situation. We keep families updated and informed when scheduling key meetings, responding to defense arguments, or negotiating with insurers.

For claims in Portland, cases frequently go through the Cumberland County Superior Court. The location can affect hearing dates and how soon a case appears on the court’s docket. We track these details and use our knowledge of local procedures to guide you through each phase. Our experience makes a difference when local challenges—like docket backlogs or changing court protocols—affect timelines or strategy. By explaining each step and keeping communication open, we help families prepare for investigation through resolution.

Extensive Experience Handling All Kinds of Complex Wrongful Death Cases in Maine

Throughout over a century of practice in Portland and beyond, Berman & Simmons has taken on an array of complex wrongful death cases. Our extensive experience can be your advantage.