The tragic and sudden loss of a loved due to the negligent or intentional act of another, is devastating.  When this occurs, the surviving members of the deceased can bring a lawsuit for civil damages against the person(s) responsible.  The lawsuit will seek compensation for medical expenses incurred before the loved one died as a result of their injuries, lost wages and future income from the deceased, lost companionship and funeral expenses.

The statute of limitations for most wrongful death is a claim must be filed two years from the date of injury or death.  If the person died as a result of medical malpractice, the claim must be filed within three years from the injury incident or within one year of when the injury was discovered or should have reasonably been discovered.  Finally, if the death resulted from an act of the government, then a claim must be filed with the appropriate agency within six months.