Wrongful death law allows surviving family members or estates to seek compensation when someone's death results from another's negligence, misconduct, or intentional harm. This legal action aims to cover losses like funeral expenses, loss of income, medical bills incurred before death, and the loss of companionship or support. Each state has its own statutes dictating who can file a wrongful death claim, the time limit within which it must be filed (ranging from one to three years), and what damages can be recovered. Proving liability typically involves demonstrating that the defendant owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and that this breach directly caused the death. While the specifics can vary significantly by jurisdiction, the core principle is to provide financial remedy for the losses suffered by those left behind due to someone else's wrongful actions.