{"id":353557,"date":"2017-08-23T17:15:37","date_gmt":"2017-08-23T22:15:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/wrongful-death-settlement-distribution-laws-by-state.html"},"modified":"2024-02-25T01:53:17","modified_gmt":"2024-02-25T06:53:17","slug":"wrongful-death-settlement-distribution-laws-by-state","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/wrongful-death-settlement-distribution-laws-by-state.html","title":{"rendered":"Wrongful Death Settlement Distribution Laws by State"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">Wrongful Death Settlement Distribution Laws by State<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw Staff<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/katrina-wilson-esq\/\">Katrina Wilson, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            February 25, 2024\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-key-takeaways fl-mb30\" data-testid=\"fl-key-takeaways\">\n    <div class=\"fl-card-content\">\n        <div class=\"fl-card-body fl-card-bg-teal fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n                            <h2 class=\"fl-card-title fl-h2 fl-no-margin\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n                        <p>The laws of each state allow surviving family members to file a wrongful death case and recover monetary damages. These laws also explain how to divide a wrongful death settlement among beneficiaries.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The death of a family member can be devastating, especially if the death occurred wrongfully as a result of another&#8217;s negligence. Whether your relative was killed in a car accident or died due to medical malpractice, their death creates a void both emotionally and financially.<\/p>\n<p>Read on to learn more about the wrongful death laws that establish the distribution of settlements. You can also find a <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/wrongful-death-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">wrongful death lawyer<\/a> to assist you with the claims process and negotiations.<\/p>\n<h2>Understanding Wrongful Death Lawsuits<\/h2>\n<p>A victim&#8217;s family can bring a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/wrongful-death-overview.html\">wrongful death lawsuit<\/a>\u00a0following a loved one&#8217;s passing. The death must have arisen from the wrongful or negligent act of another.<\/p>\n<p>You can recover both\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/injury-damages.html\">economic damages and noneconomic damages<\/a>. In some states, the court may award punitive damages to punish the defendant for egregiously wrongful acts. This is when the act is especially terrible or grossly negligent.<\/p>\n<p>The victim&#8217;s family can\u00a0seek monetary damages\u00a0for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Funeral and burial expenses<\/li>\n<li>Medical expenses<\/li>\n<li>Pain and suffering<\/li>\n<li>Loss of wages and future earning capacity<\/li>\n<li>Family&#8217;s loss of companionship (consortium)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Many of these cases\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/accident-injury-law\/resolution-before-trial-settlement.html\">end in a settlement<\/a>\u00a0rather than a trial. With a settlement, all parties agree to resolve the case for a certain monetary payout. Everyone agrees to forego their rights to have a trial or take further legal action.<\/p>\n<h2>Wrongful Death Lawsuits: Statute of Limitations<\/h2>\n<p>Like other personal injury cases, you only have a certain amount of time to file a legal action for wrongful death. Typically, if you don&#8217;t bring the case within the allotted timeframe, you will lose the chance to seek relief.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/wrongful-death-claims-time-limits-and-the-discovery-rule.html\">statute of limitations<\/a> depends on state law. Check this disclaimer with an experienced wrongful death attorney before you file your case.<\/p>\n<h2>Wrongful Death Statutes<\/h2>\n<p>Each state has its own wrongful death statutes. Some states limit who can file a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of the decedent \u2014 a legal term for the person who died. Many states require that the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/estate\/estate-administration\/estate-administration.html\">personal representative of the decedent&#8217;s estate<\/a>\u00a0file the lawsuit. A personal representative, sometimes known as an executor, is a party appointed to manage the estate. Sometimes, a will specifies a particular personal representative; otherwise, the court can appoint one.<\/p>\n<p>Other states allow certain relatives of the decedent to file a wrongful death claim and to benefit from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/wrongful-death-lawsuit-settlements-averages-and-outliers.html\">monetary settlement<\/a> of these types of cases. Typically, these are the decedent&#8217;s surviving spouse, children, parents, siblings, and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/heir.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">other heirs<\/a>.\u00a0These are defined as people entitled to inherit from the decedent pursuant to probate laws.<\/p>\n<p>Some states also limit how a wrongful death settlement or jury award can be distributed among beneficiaries. Some states indicate that a surviving spouse or children are entitled to receive a certain amount or percentage. Other states require that a settlement be distributed consistent with that state&#8217;s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/forms\/resources\/estate-planning\/die-without-estate-plan.html\">laws of intestacy<\/a>, which means dying without a will.<\/p>\n<h2>State Laws: Wrongful Death Settlement Distribution<\/h2>\n<p>The table below details the laws regarding wrongful death settlement distribution for each state.<\/p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"col\">\u00a0<\/th>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"col\">\n<p>Who Can Bring a Wrongful Death Lawsuit<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"col\">\n<p>Distribution of Settlement<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"col\">\n<p>State Statutes<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Alabama<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the personal representative of the decedent&#8217;s estate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Settlements are distributed to the decedent&#8217;s heirs in accordance with Alabama&#8217;s laws for intestate succession.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Alabama Wrongful Death Act,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/al\/title-6-civil-practice\/al-code-sect-6-5-410\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ala. Code \u00a76-5-410<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Alabama Probate Code,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/al\/title-43-wills-and-decedents-estates\/al-code-sect-43-8-1\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ala. Code \u00a743-8-40\u00a0<i>et. seq.<\/i><\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Alaska<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The surviving family members decide how to distribute a settlement. If they are unable to do so, the court will enter a binding decision as to distribution.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Alaska Statute,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ak\/title-9-code-of-civil-procedure\/ak-st-sect-09-55-580.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AS 09.55.580<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Arizona<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The decedent&#8217;s surviving spouse, child, parent, or personal representative of deceased person<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Compensation must be distributed to surviving family members &#8220;in proportion to their damages.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Arizona Wrongful Death Act,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/az\/title-12-courts-and-civil-proceedings\/az-rev-st-sect-12-611.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AZ REV ST \u00a7\u00a712-611<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/az\/title-12-courts-and-civil-proceedings\/az-rev-st-sect-12-612.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">12-612<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/az\/title-12-courts-and-civil-proceedings\/az-rev-st-sect-12-613.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">12-613<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Arkansas<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The decedent&#8217;s estate, as well as surviving spouse, children, parents, or siblings<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Only the decedent&#8217;s estate can recover for funeral and burial costs, medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages during the decedent&#8217;s lifetime. The decedent&#8217;s family can recover only for loss of companionship, emotional, and financial support.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ar\/title-16-practice-procedure-and-courts\/ar-code-sect-16-62-102.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Arkansas Code \u00a712-62-102<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>California<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The decedent&#8217;s surviving spouse, domestic partner, children, stepchildren, and grandchildren<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Discretion is given to family members to distribute the settlement, but if unable to do so equitably, the court will make a distribution based on the economic needs of the parties.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Cal. Code of Civ. Proc.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ca\/code-of-civil-procedure\/ccp-sect-377-60.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a7\u00a7377.60<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ca\/code-of-civil-procedure\/ccp-sect-377-61.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">377.61<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Colorado<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>Subject to certain exceptions, in the first year after death, only the surviving spouse can file. In the second year after the decedent&#8217;s death, surviving children can also file.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>If a spouse alone files a claim, surviving children are nonetheless entitled to a share consistent with Colorado descent and distribution statutes. Likewise, if children of the decedent file the claim, a surviving spouse is entitled to a statutory share.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/co\/title-13-courts-and-court-procedure\/co-rev-st-sect-13-21-201.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Colorado Wrongful Death Act<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Connecticut<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the executor or administrator of the decedent&#8217;s estate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Recovery will be distributed according to the terms of the decedent&#8217;s will. If there is no will, settlement will be distributed pursuant to Connecticut intestacy laws.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ct\/title-52-civil-actions\/ct-gen-st-sect-52-555.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Con. Gen. Stat. \u00a752-555<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Delaware<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The spouse, parent, child, or siblings of the decedent or a person related to the decedent by blood or marriage<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Statute authorizes the distribution of an award to beneficiaries in a way that is proportionate to resulting injury.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Delaware Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/de\/title-10-courts-and-judicial-procedure\/de-code-sect-10-3724.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title 10 \u00a73724<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>District of Columbia<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The decedent&#8217;s personal representative must file on behalf of surviving spouse, or if none, on behalf of children, parents, or siblings of the decedent.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Damages are paid to the estate, which distributes payments proportionally based on the loss suffered. If there is no will, damages are distributed based on an intestacy statute.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>District of Columbia Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/dc\/division-ii-judiciary-and-judicial-procedure\/dc-code-sect-16-2701.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a7\u00a716-2701<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/dc\/division-ii-judiciary-and-judicial-procedure\/dc-code-sect-16-2703.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">16-2703<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Florida<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>A personal representative may bring an action on behalf of the decedent&#8217;s surviving spouse, minor children, and parents.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Allocation of a settlement must be distributed in a fair and equitable manner, and the court has the authority to approve distribution.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0768\/0768.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Florida Wrongful Death Act<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Georgia<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>A surviving spouse may bring a claim on behalf of the decedent and any surviving children&gt; If no surviving spouse or children, a claim can be brought by surviving parents or a personal representative.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>A surviving spouse cannot receive less than one-third of recovery, regardless of how many children there are.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ga\/title-51-torts\/ga-code-sect-51-4-2.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Georgia Code Title 51. Torts \u00a7 51-4-2<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Hawaii<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The decedent&#8217;s personal representative, surviving spouse, &#8220;reciprocal beneficiary,&#8221; surviving children, parent, or anyone who was financially dependent on the decedent<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The court is responsible for allocating the distribution of any settlement.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/hi\/division-4-courts-and-judicial-proceedings\/hi-rev-st-sect-663-3.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hawaii Revised Statutes Division 4. Courts and Judicial Proceedings \u00a7 663-3<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Idaho<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The decedent&#8217;s personal representative, heirs, spouse, children, stepchildren, parents, or any other dependent blood relatives<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>There are no legal limitations on the distribution of settlement.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/id\/title-5-proceedings-in-civil-actions-in-courts-of-record\/id-st-sect-5-311.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Idaho Statutes Title 5 \u00a7 5-311<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Illinois<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Damages are distributed to the surviving spouse and\/or next of kin according to their level of dependency on the decedent.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilga.gov\/legislation\/ilcs\/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2059&amp;ChapterID=57\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Illinois Wrongful Death Act<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Indiana<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Damages may be awarded to decedent&#8217;s spouse, children, or other dependents. If more than one eligible person exists, the court will determine how to divide a settlement amount.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Indiana Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/in\/title-34-civil-law-and-procedure\/in-code-sect-34-23-1-1.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a734-23-1-1<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Iowa<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The administrator of the decedent&#8217;s estate, the spouse and surviving minor children, adult children, or parents of the decedent<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Any wrongful death recovery is distributed as if personal property belonging to the estate. If the settlement includes damages for loss of services and support, the damages will be apportioned by the court as it deems equitable.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Iowa Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ia\/title-xv-judicial-branch-and-judicial-procedures-chs-595-686\/ia-code-sect-633-336.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title XV. \u00a7 633.336<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Kansas<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be brought by the decedent&#8217;s estate for the benefit of the &#8220;heirs at law&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The estate is first compensated for bringing the lawsuit. Thereafter, damages are distributed to the decedent&#8217;s heirs by the court. The parties can agree to a distribution of a settlement, but it must be approved by the court.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Kansas Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ks\/chapter-60-procedure-civil\/ks-st-sect-60-1901.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chapter 60 \u00a7 60-1901<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Kentucky<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be brought by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Funeral expenses and administration costs are paid first. Thereafter, if the decedent leaves a surviving spouse and no children, the spouse receives the remainder. If the decedent leaves a surviving spouse and children, the spouse receives 1\/2, and the surviving children receive 1\/2. If the decedent leaves children but no surviving spouse, the remainder goes to the child or children. If the decedent leaves no children or spouse, the parents of the decedent take. If the decedent leaves no spouse, parents, or children, the settlement passes to the estate.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Kentucky Revised Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ky\/title-xxxvi-statutory-actions-and-limitations\/ky-rev-st-sect-411-130.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title XXXVI \u00a7411.130<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Louisiana<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>Surviving spouse or children, parents, or siblings of the decedent<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The law places no limitation on how wrongful death settlements are distributed between family members.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/la\/civil-code\/la-civ-code-tit-v-art-2315-2.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Louisiana Civil Code Tit. V, Art. 2315.2<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Maine<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be brought by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>A surviving spouse receives all of the award if there are no minor children. If there are minor children, the spouse receives 1\/2 of the award, and the minor children receive the other 1\/2, divided equally between them.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/legislature.maine.gov\/statutes\/18-C\/title18-Csec2-807.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Maine Revised Statutes Title 18-C \u00a7 2-807<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Maryland<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>Primary beneficiaries, including a surviving spouse, parent, or child, can file a wrongful death suit on behalf of themselves. A secondary beneficiary, like a sibling, cousin, niece, nephew, or other relative, can file a claim on behalf of the decedent&#8217;s estate.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Damages can be distributed to the beneficiaries in shares proportional to the injury caused by the wrongful death.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Maryland Code, Courts and Judicial Proceedings\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/mgaleg.maryland.gov\/mgawebsite\/laws\/StatuteText?article=gcj&amp;section=3-904&amp;enactments=false\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a7 3-904<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Massachusetts<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the executor or administrator of the estate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>If the decedent is survived by a spouse and no children, the entire settlement is distributed to the spouse. If there is one surviving child, the spouse receives 1\/2 of the settlement, and the child receives 1\/2. If there is more than one surviving child, the spouse receives 1\/3, and the surviving children divide 2\/3 between them.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Massachusetts General Laws\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ma\/part-iii-courts-judicial-officers-and-proceedings-in-civil-cases-ch-211-262\/ma-gen-laws-ch-229-sect-2.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Part III Ch. 229, \u00a7 2<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Michigan<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be brought by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The personal representative must file a motion to distribute the proceeds of the settlement, and the court will distribute the settlement to the extent beneficiaries have suffered damages. Recovery for pain and suffering is paid back into the decedent&#8217;s estate.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Michigan Compiled Laws,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/mi\/chapter-600-revised-judicature-act-of-1961\/mi-comp-laws-600-2922.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chapter 600 \u00a7 600.2922<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Minnesota<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The surviving spouse and children of the decedent, or the parents, grandparents, or siblings of the decedent<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The court is responsible for determining the proportionate loss of each person entitled to recovery and ordering distribution accordingly.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Minnesota Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/mn\/postjudgment-remedies-alternative-dispute-resolution-bonds-ch-570-583\/mn-st-sect-573-02.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a7573.02<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Mississippi<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>A claim can be brought by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative, surviving spouse, parent, child, or siblings<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>If a surviving spouse brings an action, damages are divided equally between the spouse and children. If no spouse or children, damages are divided between surviving parents and siblings.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Mississippi Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ms\/title-11-civil-practice-and-procedure\/ms-code-sect-11-7-13.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title 11 \u00a711-7-13<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Missouri<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The surviving spouse, children, or lineal descendants of the decedent have the first opportunity to file. If no such people exist, a brother or sister of the decedent or their descendants can bring a claim.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The court must first approve any settlement and is responsible for apportioning the settlement in proportion to loss suffered.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Missouri Revised Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/mo\/title-xxxvi-statutory-actions-and-torts\/mo-rev-st-537-080.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title XXXVI \u00a7537.080<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Montana<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The law places no limitations on the distribution of wrongful death settlements.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Montana\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/mt\/title-27-civil-liability-remedies-and-limitations\/mt-code-ann-sect-27-1-513.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title 27 \u00a727-1-513<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Nebraska<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Settlement is to be distributed between the surviving spouse and next of kin in the proportion of pecuniary loss suffered.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Nebraska Revised Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/nebraskalegislature.gov\/laws\/statutes.php?statute=30-810\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Chapter 30\u00a7 30-810<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Nevada<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>Can be brought by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative, surviving spouse, children, or parents<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Each heir is entitled to present evidence of his or her own specific losses and be awarded a proportionate portion of damages<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Nevada Revised Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/nv\/title-3-remedies-special-actions-and-proceedings\/nv-rev-st-41-085.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title 3 \u00a741.085<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>New Hampshire<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>Any person &#8220;interested in the estate of the deceased&#8221; can file a wrongful death claim<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The court determines the amount of damages distributed to a surviving spouse or children.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>New Hampshire Rev. Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.gencourt.state.nh.us\/rsa\/html\/LVI\/556\/556-12.htm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title LVI \u00a7556:12<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>New Jersey<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>A surviving spouse and one or more surviving descendants can take equally. Other dependents can be apportioned part of the settlement under the court&#8217;s authority.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/nj\/title-2a-administration-of-civil-and-criminal-justice\/nj-st-sect-2a-31-1.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">New Jersey Wrongful Death Act<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>New Mexico<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>If there is a surviving spouse and no children, the spouse takes everything. If there are surviving children or grandchildren, the spouse takes 1\/2, and the children and grandchildren share the remaining 1\/2. If there is no surviving spouse, the children or grandchildren divide the settlement. If the decedent is a child, the mother and father share equally. If no surviving spouse, parents, or children, surviving brothers and sisters can share the settlement.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>New Mexico Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/nm\/chapter-41-torts\/nm-st-sect-41-2-1.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a741-2-1<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>New York<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>If there is a surviving spouse and no children, the entire amount goes to the spouse. If there are children, the spouse receives $50,000 and 1\/2 of the balance, and the other 1\/2 is divided equally among the children. If there are children but no spouse, the children divide the settlement equally. If no spouse or children, the entire settlement goes to surviving parents.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>New York Consolidated Laws, Estates, Powers and Trusts Law\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ny\/estates-powers-and-trusts-law\/ept-sect-5-4-1.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">EPT \u00a7 5-4.1<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>North Carolina<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>If there is a surviving spouse and no children or surviving parents, the entire amount goes to the spouse. If there is a surviving spouse and also surviving parents, the first $50,000 goes to the spouse, and the remaining proceeds are divided equally between the surviving parents and the spouse. If there is one living child, the first $30,000 goes to the spouse, and the remaining proceeds are equally divided between the spouse and the child. If there is more than one surviving child, the first $30,000 goes to the spouse, 1\/3 of the remaining settlement goes to the spouse, and the remaining 2\/3 is divided between the children. If there is no surviving spouse, the settlement is divided between surviving children, parents, siblings, and other descendants.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>North Carolina General Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/nc\/chapter-28a-administration-of-decedents-estates\/nc-gen-st-sect-28a-18-2.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a728A-18-2<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>North Dakota<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>A wrongful death action can be brought by a surviving spouse, children, parent, grandparent, or by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The court is responsible for apportioning damages among the decedent&#8217;s family members, and to do so, the court may make any investigation it deems necessary.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>North Dakota Century Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/nd\/title-32-judicial-remedies\/nd-cent-code-sect-32-21-01.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a732-21-01<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Ohio<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Settlement is distributed to beneficiaries in proportion to their injury and loss.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Ohio Revised Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/oh\/title-xxi-courts-probate-juvenile\/oh-rev-code-sect-2125-01.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title XXI \u00a72125.01<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Oklahoma<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The court is responsible for distributing a settlement among surviving relatives.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Oklahoma Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.oscn.net\/applications\/oscn\/DeliverDocument.asp?CiteID=94357\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a712-1053<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Oregon<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The personal representative is first reimbursed for costs, expenses, and fees. Thereafter, the personal representative pays all reimbursements for medical care. The remainder of the damages are distributed to beneficiaries pursuant to the laws of intestate succession or as agreed by the beneficiaries.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Oregon Revised Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/or\/title-3-remedies-and-special-actions-and-proceedings\/or-rev-st-sect-30-020.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a730.020<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Pennsylvania<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Any portion of the settlement for pain and suffering is paid to the decedent&#8217;s estate, and the remainder is distributed to the decedent&#8217;s beneficiaries in the proportion they would have taken under the intestacy laws.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/pa\/title-42-pacsa-judiciary-and-judicial-procedure\/pa-csa-sect-42-8301.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pennsylvania Wrongful Death Act<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Rhode Island<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the executor or administrator of the decedent&#8217;s estate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Proceeds go 1\/2 to surviving spouse, 1\/2 to surviving children. If no children, the whole shall go to the surviving spouse. If no spouse or children, the whole shall go to the next of kin in proportion as described by the laws of intestacy.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Rhode Island General Laws\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ri\/title-10-courts-and-civil-procedure-procedure-in-particular-actions\/ri-gen-laws-sect-10-7-1.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a710-7-1<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>South Carolina<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the executor or administrator of the decedent&#8217;s estate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The parties to the action can agree on a distribution, but any settlement must be approved by the court following a hearing.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>South Carolina Code of Laws\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.scstatehouse.gov\/code\/t15c051.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a715-51-10<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>South Dakota<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Either the court must approve the settlement, or all competent beneficiaries over 18 must agree to the division in the settlement.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>South Dakota Codified Laws\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/sdlegislature.gov\/Statutes\/Codified_Laws\/DisplayStatute.aspx?Type=Statute&amp;Statute=21-5-5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a721-5-5<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Tennessee<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The initial right to file belongs to the surviving spouse. If there is no spouse, the right next belongs to the following parties, in order: surviving children or next of kin, personal representative of the decedent&#8217;s estate, surviving parents of the decedent, administrator of the decedent&#8217;s estate.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Distribution of the net proceeds of a settlement is completed pursuant to the laws of intestacy.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Tennessee Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/tn\/title-20-civil-procedure\/tn-code-sect-20-5-106.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a720-5-106<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Texas<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>The surviving spouse, children, and parents of the decedent can file wrongful death claims individually or together in a group claim.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>If all beneficiaries are adults and are agreeable, they can determine a distribution of the settlement.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Texas CIV PRAC &amp; REM Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/tx\/civil-practice-and-remedies-code\/civ-prac-rem-sect-71-002.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a771.00<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Utah<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>Can be filed by the decedent&#8217;s heirs or personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Settlements are distributed to heirs proportionately based on the amount of financial support the decedent offered and the individual loss suffered by the heir.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Utah Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/ut\/title-78b-judicial-code\/ut-code-sect-78b-3-106.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a778B-3-106<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Vermont<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Proceeds from a settlement are distributed to a surviving spouse, children, or next of kin in proportion as follows: If only a surviving spouse remains, the settlement will be for the spouse&#8217;s sole benefit; the decedent&#8217;s surviving parents take the entire settlement if there is no spouse or children.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Vermont Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/vt\/title-14-decedents-estates-and-fiduciary-relations\/vt-st-tit-14-sect-1491.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Title 14 \u00a71491<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Virginia<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>Can be filed by one or more statutory beneficiaries, including the decedent&#8217;s surviving spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, siblings, other relatives who lived with the decedent, or anyone else entitled to inherit from the decedent&#8217;s estate<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The court must approve any settlement, and if the parties cannot agree on a distribution of the proceeds, the court may determine an equitable distribution.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Virginia Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/va\/title-8-01-civil-remedies-and-procedure\/va-code-sect-8-01-50.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a78.01-50<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Washington<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>Can be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative, surviving spouse, or children<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The court must review the reasonableness of any settlement and the distribution to the decedent&#8217;s heirs.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Washington Revised Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/wa\/title-4-civil-procedure\/wa-rev-code-4-20-010.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a74.20.010<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>West Virginia<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The court has the discretion to equitably distribute a settlement among the decedent&#8217;s heirs.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>West Virginia Code\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/wv\/chapter-55-actions-suits-and-arbitration-judicial-sale\/wv-code-sect-55-7-5.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a755-7-5<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Wisconsin<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>Can be brought by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative or a surviving spouse, children, or parent<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>The court may set aside a portion of the settlement for the benefit of minor children, but this cannot exceed 1\/2 of the settlement. If there are no children, the entire settlement goes to the surviving spouse. If there is no spouse, the settlement goes to the decedent&#8217;s lineal heirs or to surviving siblings.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Wisconsin Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/wi\/miscellaneous-actions-proceedings-and-procedure-ch-895-to-900\/wi-st-895-04.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a7895.04<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"text-align: left\" scope=\"row\">\n<p>Wyoming<\/p>\n<\/th>\n<td>\n<p>May be filed by the decedent&#8217;s personal representative<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Each person who may benefit under a wrongful death action may prove his or her measure of damages to the court, and the court will distribute a settlement accordingly.<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td>\n<p>Wyoming Statutes\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/wy\/title-1-code-of-civil-procedure\/wy-st-sect-1-38-101.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a71-38-101<\/a><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2>Questions About Wrongful Death Settlement Distributions in Your State? Ask a Personal Injury Lawyer<\/h2>\n<p>If you&#8217;ve lost a loved one due to the negligence of another person, you may have a case for wrongful death. As summarized in the chart above, the state laws that apply to wrongful death lawsuits vary widely, and each state limits the time you have to file your suit. Contact a local\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/personal-injury-plaintiff\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">personal injury attorney<\/a>\u00a0today to ensure your legal rights are preserved. The law offices of a wrongful death lawyer can help claimants fight insurance companies and obtain justice for their families.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" 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20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n            <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <form class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form\">\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--positive\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Easy to understand\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can help negotiate fair compensation for your loss\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can help gather evidence to prove liability for the death\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can guide you through the complex and emotionally overwhelming process\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>Get tailored legal advice and ask a lawyer questions about settling your wrongful death claim. Many attorneys offer free consultations.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\"><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/wrongful-death-plaintiff\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL3905\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\"\n                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rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/how-to-file-a-wrongful-death-lawsuit.html\">\n                        How To File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/wrongful-death-lawsuit-settlements-averages-and-outliers.html\">\n                        Wrongful Death Lawsuit Settlements: Averages and Outliers\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/injury\/torts-and-personal-injuries\/wrongful-death-overview.html\">\n                        Wrongful Death Elements and Damages\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/state\/accident-and-injury-laws\/negligence-laws.html\">\n                        State Negligence Laws\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/wrongful-death-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wrongful Death Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/dui-dwi\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DUI\/DWI Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/drugs-medical-devices\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Drugs and Medical Devices Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/construction-accident\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Construction Accidents Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/motor-vehicle-accidents-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Traffic Accidents Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/products-liability-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Products Liability Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/premises-liability-plaintiff\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Premises Liability Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Surviving family members may file lawsuits and recover damages due to the wrongful death of loved ones. FindLaw explores wrongful death laws by state.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":353411,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2734],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-353557","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-injury"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353557","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=353557"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353557\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":399310,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353557\/revisions\/399310"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/353411"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=353557"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=353557"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=353557"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=353557"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=353557"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}