The specifics of who is eligible to file a Wrongful Death lawsuit vary slightly from state to state, according to the wording of their statutes. Claims typically must be filed by immediate family members. Minors (persons under the age of 18) wishing to file a lawsuit may need the presence of an adult guardian to act on their behalf in court. Some states do not limit plaintiffs to immediate family, allowing grandparents, extended family members, and legal dependents to file Wrongful Death lawsuits.