Wrongful Death Lawsuits in District of Columbia
Who can bring a wrongful death claim in District of Columbia, the deadline to file, and any limits on damages.
Short answer: The action must be brought by and in the name of the deceased person's personal representative. Damages are assessed based on the injury to the surviving spouse or domestic partner and the next of kin, and include reasonable expenses of the last illness and burial; D.C. Code §§ 16-2701, 16-2702
| Who can sue for wrongful death | The action must be brought by and in the name of the deceased person's personal representative. Damages are assessed based on the injury to the surviving spouse or domestic partner and the next of kin, and include reasonable expenses of the last illness and burial; the jury allocates the award between the spouse or domestic partner and the next of kin. No action may be brought if the injured person recovered damages for the injury while alive. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: D.C. Code §§ 16-2701, 16-2702 |
|---|---|
| Wrongful death deadline | A wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within 2 years after the death. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: D.C. Code § 16-2702 |
More District of Columbia personal injury & wrongful death
- Deadlines to File an Injury Lawsuit in District of Columbia
- Medical Malpractice Rules in District of Columbia
- Car Accident Claims in District of Columbia
- Dog Bite Liability in District of Columbia
- Pedestrian Accident Claims in District of Columbia
- Bicycle Accident Claims in District of Columbia
- Uber and Lyft Accident Claims in District of Columbia
- Construction Site Injuries in District of Columbia
- All District of Columbia personal injury & wrongful death rules
FAQ
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in District of Columbia?
The action must be brought by and in the name of the deceased person's personal representative. Damages are assessed based on the injury to the surviving spouse or domestic partner and the next of kin, and include reasonable expenses of the last illness and burial; the jury allocates the award between the spouse or domestic partner and the next of kin. No action may be brought if the injured person recovered damages for the injury while alive.
How long do you have to file a wrongful death lawsuit in District of Columbia?
A wrongful death lawsuit must be filed within 2 years after the death.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.