Average hourly rate
250 — 600per hour
Average rate observed across the United States, service fees included
Wrongful Death fees in the United States: 250–600 per hour. Wrongful Death with soft tissue injuries — average settlement $15,000-$40,000. Wrongful Death requiring surgery — average settlement $50,000-$200,000. Wrongful Death with permanent disability — average settlement $150,000-$500,000. Rates verified across 1,300,000+ licensed attorneys.
Source: US Attorneys — Verified bar records
Common service details
| Service | Estimated fee | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Wrongful Death with soft tissue injuries — average settlement $15,000-$40,000 | By consultation | Free consultation |
| Wrongful Death requiring surgery — average settlement $50,000-$200,000 | By consultation | Free consultation |
| Wrongful Death with permanent disability — average settlement $150,000-$500,000 | By consultation | Free consultation |
| Wrongful Death resulting in lost wages — average settlement $25,000-$75,000 | By consultation | Free consultation |
| Wrongful Death involving multiple parties — average settlement $50,000-$250,000 | By consultation | Free consultation |
| Wrongful Death with traumatic brain injury — average settlement $100,000-$1,000,000 | By consultation | Free consultation |
| Wrongful Death causing emotional distress — average settlement $20,000-$60,000 | By consultation | Free consultation |
| Wrongful Death wrongful death claims — average settlement $250,000-$1,000,000+ | By consultation | Free consultation |
| Estimated fees may vary based on case complexity, state, and attorney. | ||
How much does a wrongful death cost in the United States?
The average hourly rate for a wrongful death in the United States ranges from 250 to 600 per hour. This rate varies by region, case complexity, and the attorney's experience level. In major metro areas like New York and Los Angeles, expect rates 20 to 25% above the national average.
How to choose your wrongful death?
To choose the right wrongful death, verify their bar number with the state bar association, request proof of malpractice insurance, and compare at least 3 detailed fee agreements. Look for attorneys with relevant certifications (Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law (NBTA)) and check client reviews online.
What are the average fees for a wrongful death?
Fees for a wrongful death depend on the type of service. Common services include: wrongful death with soft tissue injuries — average settlement $15,000-$40,000, wrongful death requiring surgery — average settlement $50,000-$200,000. The base hourly rate is 250 to 600 per hour, excluding court fees and filing costs.
Detailed rates by service and city
Discover precise rates for each type of service in major cities across the United States.
Wrongful Death with soft tissue injuries — average settlement $15,000-$40,000
Wrongful Death with soft tissue injuries — average settlement $15,000-$40,000 in New York →Wrongful Death with soft tissue injuries — average settlement $15,000-$40,000 in Los Angeles →Wrongful Death with soft tissue injuries — average settlement $15,000-$40,000 in Chicago →Wrongful Death with soft tissue injuries — average settlement $15,000-$40,000 in Houston →Wrongful Death with soft tissue injuries — average settlement $15,000-$40,000 in Phoenix →Wrongful Death with soft tissue injuries — average settlement $15,000-$40,000 in Philadelphia →
Wrongful Death requiring surgery — average settlement $50,000-$200,000
Wrongful Death requiring surgery — average settlement $50,000-$200,000 in New York →Wrongful Death requiring surgery — average settlement $50,000-$200,000 in Los Angeles →Wrongful Death requiring surgery — average settlement $50,000-$200,000 in Chicago →Wrongful Death requiring surgery — average settlement $50,000-$200,000 in Houston →Wrongful Death requiring surgery — average settlement $50,000-$200,000 in Phoenix →Wrongful Death requiring surgery — average settlement $50,000-$200,000 in Philadelphia →
Wrongful Death with permanent disability — average settlement $150,000-$500,000
Wrongful Death with permanent disability — average settlement $150,000-$500,000 in New York →Wrongful Death with permanent disability — average settlement $150,000-$500,000 in Los Angeles →Wrongful Death with permanent disability — average settlement $150,000-$500,000 in Chicago →Wrongful Death with permanent disability — average settlement $150,000-$500,000 in Houston →Wrongful Death with permanent disability — average settlement $150,000-$500,000 in Phoenix →Wrongful Death with permanent disability — average settlement $150,000-$500,000 in Philadelphia →
Wrongful Death resulting in lost wages — average settlement $25,000-$75,000
Wrongful Death resulting in lost wages — average settlement $25,000-$75,000 in New York →Wrongful Death resulting in lost wages — average settlement $25,000-$75,000 in Los Angeles →Wrongful Death resulting in lost wages — average settlement $25,000-$75,000 in Chicago →Wrongful Death resulting in lost wages — average settlement $25,000-$75,000 in Houston →Wrongful Death resulting in lost wages — average settlement $25,000-$75,000 in Phoenix →Wrongful Death resulting in lost wages — average settlement $25,000-$75,000 in Philadelphia →
Wrongful Death involving multiple parties — average settlement $50,000-$250,000
Wrongful Death involving multiple parties — average settlement $50,000-$250,000 in New York →Wrongful Death involving multiple parties — average settlement $50,000-$250,000 in Los Angeles →Wrongful Death involving multiple parties — average settlement $50,000-$250,000 in Chicago →Wrongful Death involving multiple parties — average settlement $50,000-$250,000 in Houston →Wrongful Death involving multiple parties — average settlement $50,000-$250,000 in Phoenix →Wrongful Death involving multiple parties — average settlement $50,000-$250,000 in Philadelphia →
Wrongful Death with traumatic brain injury — average settlement $100,000-$1,000,000
Wrongful Death with traumatic brain injury — average settlement $100,000-$1,000,000 in New York →Wrongful Death with traumatic brain injury — average settlement $100,000-$1,000,000 in Los Angeles →Wrongful Death with traumatic brain injury — average settlement $100,000-$1,000,000 in Chicago →Wrongful Death with traumatic brain injury — average settlement $100,000-$1,000,000 in Houston →Wrongful Death with traumatic brain injury — average settlement $100,000-$1,000,000 in Phoenix →Wrongful Death with traumatic brain injury — average settlement $100,000-$1,000,000 in Philadelphia →
Wrongful Death causing emotional distress — average settlement $20,000-$60,000
Wrongful Death causing emotional distress — average settlement $20,000-$60,000 in New York →Wrongful Death causing emotional distress — average settlement $20,000-$60,000 in Los Angeles →Wrongful Death causing emotional distress — average settlement $20,000-$60,000 in Chicago →Wrongful Death causing emotional distress — average settlement $20,000-$60,000 in Houston →Wrongful Death causing emotional distress — average settlement $20,000-$60,000 in Phoenix →Wrongful Death causing emotional distress — average settlement $20,000-$60,000 in Philadelphia →
Wrongful Death wrongful death claims — average settlement $250,000-$1,000,000+
Wrongful Death wrongful death claims — average settlement $250,000-$1,000,000+ in New York →Wrongful Death wrongful death claims — average settlement $250,000-$1,000,000+ in Los Angeles →Wrongful Death wrongful death claims — average settlement $250,000-$1,000,000+ in Chicago →Wrongful Death wrongful death claims — average settlement $250,000-$1,000,000+ in Houston →Wrongful Death wrongful death claims — average settlement $250,000-$1,000,000+ in Phoenix →Wrongful Death wrongful death claims — average settlement $250,000-$1,000,000+ in Philadelphia →
Fee variations by region
Wrongful Death rates vary by region. Here is an adjusted estimate.
Northeast
New York, Boston, DC
313 — 750 per hour
+25% vs averageWest Coast
Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle
300 — 720 per hour
+20% vs averageSoutheast
Atlanta, Miami, Charlotte
238 — 570 per hour
-5% vs averageMidwest
Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis
225 — 540 per hour
-10% vs averageSouthwest
Dallas, Houston, Phoenix
250 — 600 per hour
National averageMountain
Denver, Salt Lake City
238 — 570 per hour
-5% vs averagePacific NW
Portland, Seattle
263 — 630 per hour
+5% vs averageSouth Central
Nashville, New Orleans
225 — 540 per hour
-10% vs averageTips for choosing a wrongful death
Choose a wrongful death attorney who works on contingency so you pay nothing upfront
Verify the attorney has specific experience with wrongful death cases like yours
Check their track record of settlements and trial verdicts in wrongful death matters
Ask about their caseload to ensure your wrongful death case gets proper attention
Confirm they have resources for expert witnesses and accident reconstruction if needed
Request references from past wrongful death clients
Meet the actual attorney who will handle your case, not just the intake coordinator
Ensure they can explain the statute of limitations and legal process clearly
Certifications and qualifications
Verify that your wrongful death holds the certifications relevant to your case.
Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law (NBTA)
Certified Civil Trial Specialist
Member of American Association for Justice (AAJ)
State Bar Certified Personal Injury Specialist
Frequently Asked Questions — Wrongful Death
How much does a wrongful death attorney cost?
The cost of a wrongful death attorney varies based on case complexity, attorney experience, geographic location, and billing method. Hourly rates typically range from $250 to $600 per hour. Many wrongful death attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, typically 33-40% of settlement, meaning you pay nothing unless you win. Retainer fees typically range from $5,000-$15,000. Major metropolitan areas command higher rates than rural areas. Attorney experience significantly impacts pricing, with seasoned specialists charging more than general practitioners. Always get a detailed written fee agreement before hiring an attorney, and ask about all potential costs including filing fees, expert witnesses, and other expenses that may arise during your case.
How do I find the best wrongful death attorney near me?
Finding the best wrongful death attorney requires research across multiple sources. Start by checking your state bar association directory which verifies licensure and shows disciplinary history. Ask for referrals from friends, family, or other attorneys who may know qualified wrongful death specialists. Online legal directories like Martindale-Hubbell, Avvo, and Super Lawyers provide ratings and reviews. Look for board certification in the relevant specialty area, which indicates advanced competence. Schedule consultations with two or three attorneys to compare their approach, experience, and communication style. During consultations ask about their specific experience with cases like yours, their success rate, who will actually handle your case, and their availability. Check online reviews but weigh them carefully as individual experiences vary. The best attorney for you combines relevant expertise with communication and responsiveness that matches your needs.
What should I expect during my first consultation with a wrongful death attorney?
During your first consultation with a wrongful death attorney, you should expect a thorough discussion of your legal situation. Bring all relevant documents including contracts, correspondence, court papers, police reports, medical records, or financial records depending on your case. The attorney will ask detailed questions about the facts, timeline, and parties involved. They should explain the legal framework applicable to your situation, potential strategies, likely outcomes, and realistic timelines. Ask about their experience with similar cases, who will handle your case day-to-day, their communication practices, and their fee structure. A good attorney will be honest about the strengths and weaknesses of your case rather than making unrealistic promises. The consultation typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes. Many wrongful death attorneys offer free initial consultations.
How long does a wrongful death case typically take to resolve?
The timeline for resolving a wrongful death case depends on multiple factors including case complexity, the number of parties involved, court schedules, and whether the matter settles or goes to trial. 3-24 months from incident to resolution; litigation may extend to 2-4 years Key factors that can extend the timeline include disputed facts or legal issues, the need for extensive discovery or expert analysis, court backlogs in busy jurisdictions, appeals, and the willingness of both parties to negotiate. Your attorney should provide a realistic timeline estimate based on the specific facts of your case and keep you informed about progress and any changes. While it may be tempting to push for a quick resolution, rushing can sometimes result in a worse outcome. Trust your attorney guidance on when to be patient and when to push for resolution.
What questions should I ask before hiring a wrongful death attorney?
Before hiring a wrongful death attorney, ask these essential questions: How many years have you practiced wrongful death law specifically? How many cases similar to mine have you handled, and what were the outcomes? Will you personally handle my case or delegate it to associates or paralegals? What is your fee structure, and what total costs should I anticipate? How will you keep me informed about case progress, and how quickly do you respond to client communications? What is your assessment of my case strengths and weaknesses? What is the likely timeline for resolution? Are you board certified or have any specialty certifications? What is your trial experience if my case cannot be settled? Can you provide references from past clients with similar cases? The answers to these questions will help you evaluate both competence and compatibility, which are equally important in choosing the right attorney for your situation.
What are the most common mistakes people make in wrongful death cases?
The most common mistakes in wrongful death cases include waiting too long to consult an attorney, which can result in missing critical deadlines or losing important evidence. Many people try to handle matters themselves initially and only seek legal help after making statements or taking actions that hurt their case. Talking to the opposing party or their representatives without legal counsel present is another frequent error. Failing to document everything including keeping copies of all communications, records, and evidence can weaken your position. Some people choose an attorney based solely on cost rather than relevant experience and specialization. Not being completely honest with your attorney prevents them from developing the best strategy and preparing for potential problems. Finally, having unrealistic expectations about outcomes or timelines can lead to frustration and poor decision-making. The earlier you involve a qualified wrongful death attorney, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
Can I handle a wrongful death matter without an attorney?
While you have the legal right to represent yourself in most wrongful death matters, doing so carries significant risks. The legal system is complex, and wrongful death cases involve specialized rules, procedures, deadlines, and strategic considerations that attorneys spend years learning. Self-represented parties are held to the same standards as attorneys and receive no special accommodations from courts. Common risks include missing filing deadlines that bar your claims permanently, making statements that damage your case, failing to preserve important evidence, not understanding your full legal rights, and accepting unfavorable terms because you do not know what a fair outcome looks like. Since many wrongful death attorneys work on contingency, you may be able to obtain quality representation with no upfront cost. For minor or straightforward matters, some people successfully handle things themselves, but for anything involving significant rights, money, or liberty, professional representation is strongly recommended.
Need an emergency wrongful death?
If you or someone else has been seriously injured, call 911 immediately. Do not move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger. Seek emergency medical treatment first. Contact a wrongful death attorney within 24 to 48 hours to preserve evidence and protect your legal rights. Do not discuss fault with anyone at the scene or give recorded statements to insurance companies.
Emergency wrongful death — 24/7Fees for other practice areas
Get a precise quote for your case
Fees vary depending on your situation. Request a free consultation from a verified wrongful death.
Fee methodology
The fees displayed are indicative ranges based on averages observed across the United States. They vary by region, case complexity, and urgency. Only a personalized consultation provides a binding quote. USAttorneys is an independent directory.