Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in New York?

The Personal Representative Files

In New York, a wrongful death action is brought by the personal representative of the deceased's estate, on behalf of the surviving family members who suffered a loss.

What Damages Are Available

New York's statute focuses on the economic losses to survivors — lost financial support, lost services, and funeral expenses — along with conscious pain and suffering of the deceased before death in a related survival claim.

The Two-Year Deadline

Wrongful death claims generally must be filed within two years of the death, with shorter notice deadlines if a government entity is involved.

Why Legal Help Matters

Establishing the estate, identifying beneficiaries, and proving losses require careful work during an already painful time. An attorney can shoulder that burden for the family.