Arnold Wrongful Death Lawyers
Wrongful Death Lawyers in Arnold, Maryland, at Murnane & O’Neill
The Arnold wrongful death lawyers at Murnane & O’Neill are dedicated to representing families who have suffered the devastating and untimely loss of a loved one due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or wrongful conduct. Few experiences are as painful as losing a family member unexpectedly—especially when that loss could and should have been prevented. Tragically, fatal accidents caused by negligence occur far too often in Arnold and throughout Maryland.
Attorney Hal Murnane and the legal team at Murnane & O’Neill have extensive experience handling wrongful death and survivor actions throughout Arnold, Anne Arundel County, and across the State of Maryland. We understand the overwhelming grief families face during this time, as well as the legal, financial, and emotional challenges that follow. Our mission is to protect your rights, hold negligent parties accountable, and pursue the full and fair compensation your family deserves under Maryland law.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, your claim may involve:
- A wrongful death action
- A survivor action
- Or both claims pursued together
Our attorneys carefully review every aspect of your case to determine the strongest legal strategy for your family.
Common Causes of Wrongful Death in Arnold, Maryland
Wrongful death claims can arise from many different types of fatal accidents. At Murnane & O’Neill, we frequently represent families in cases involving:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Truck and commercial vehicle crashes
- Industrial and workplace accidents
- Defective or dangerous products
- Premises liability incidents, including slip and falls and unsafe property conditions
In many fatal accident cases—particularly truck crashes, construction accidents, and industrial incidents—liability extends beyond the individual who caused the harm. Employers, property owners, contractors, and product manufacturers may all share responsibility. When a fatal injury is caused by an employee acting within the scope of employment, the employer may be held jointly liable under Maryland law.
Understanding Wrongful Death Claims and Survivor Actions in Maryland
Wrongful Death Claims
Wrongful death actions are strictly governed by Maryland law. Only specific individuals are permitted to bring a claim, including:
Primary beneficiaries
- The surviving spouse
- Children
- Parents of the deceased
If no primary beneficiaries exist, a secondary beneficiary may be able to pursue a claim—but only if that person was substantially dependent on the deceased for financial support.
Wrongful death claims focus on the losses suffered by surviving family members, which may include:
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship, comfort, and guidance
- Emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
Survivor Actions
A survivor action is brought by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate. This claim seeks compensation for what the deceased experienced prior to death, including:
- Conscious pain and suffering
- Medical expenses incurred before passing
- Other damages suffered between injury and death
In many cases, wrongful death and survivor actions are pursued together to fully address the harm caused by negligence.
What Damages Can My Family Recover After a Wrongful Death in Arnold, Maryland?
The Arnold wrongful death lawyers at Murnane & O’Neill work tirelessly to pursue maximum compensation for grieving families. Depending on the facts of your case, recoverable damages may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills incurred prior to death
- Loss of financial support and future income
- Loss of household services
- Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
- Emotional pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
Lost Income and Future Earning Capacity
Calculating lost income and future earning potential can be complex. If your loved one was the primary breadwinner, supported children, or had significant future potential—such as a student or professional in training—your family may be entitled to substantial compensation.
Our Arnold, Maryland wrongful death attorneys carefully evaluate your loved one’s:
- Employment history
- Education, skills, and training
- Career path and earning potential
- Role within the household and family
We frequently work with financial and economic experts to build a strong, well-supported claim on your family’s behalf.

When the Deceased Did Not Work Outside the Home
Wrongful death claims are not limited to traditional wage earners. Families can suffer serious financial and emotional losses when a loved one who provided essential caregiving or household services passes away.
Examples include:
- A parent who cared for children full-time
- A family member who provided care for elderly or disabled relatives
- A loved one who managed household responsibilities
After such a loss, families may face significant new expenses, including:
- Childcare or daycare services
- Hiring nannies or babysitters
- In-home nursing or medical care
- Assisted living or nursing home placement
A qualified Arnold, Maryland wrongful death lawyer at Murnane & O’Neill can help pursue compensation to cover these caretaking and support-related costs.
Loss of a Child or Elderly Loved One
Wrongful death claims involving the loss of a child or elderly family member are among the most emotionally devastating. While these cases may present unique legal challenges, they are no less deserving of careful attention and advocacy.
Families may still be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses incurred prior to death
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of companionship, comfort, and emotional support
- Loss of services provided to the family
Every case is unique. Some elderly relatives provide essential childcare or household assistance, while some children contribute emotionally or financially to their families. Our attorneys approach these cases with compassion, dignity, and meticulous legal analysis to ensure every loss is fully recognized.
Compassionate Legal Support When You Need It Most
We understand that your family may be overwhelmed with grief, funeral arrangements, and uncertainty about the future. The idea of filing a lawsuit or navigating the legal system may feel overwhelming right now.
You do not have to face this alone.
The wrongful death attorneys at Murnane & O’Neill serving Arnold, Maryland are here to guide you through every step of the process. We handle the legal burdens so you can focus on healing and honoring your loved one’s memory.
Contact an Arnold, Maryland Wrongful Death Lawyer Today
If you believe your loved one’s death was caused by the negligence or wrongful conduct of another party, we encourage you to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
Call (410) 761-6800 to speak with a member of our team
The Arnold wrongful death lawyers at Murnane & O’Neill are ready to stand by your side, protect your rights, and pursue the justice your family deserves.




