Wrongful death occurs when an individual dies unexpectedly due to an automobile accident, medical malpractice, work-related injuries, or other such negligent actions of another party. Family members and other dependent parties can be left, not only emotionally vulnerable, but financially vulnerable as well.

The law provides specific compensation for a surviving spouse, minor children, parents, next of kin, dependents, and/or beneficiaries of the deceased loved one when the loved one's death is caused by the negligence of another party. Such compensation includes loss of financial support, loss of services, loss of the society, loss of prospective inheritance, and mental anguish suffered.