Punitive damages are imposed in cases of serious and intentional wrongdoing, not for the benefit of the plaintiff, but as a punishment for the defendant; they are supposed to serve as a deterrent. Most states do not allow the recovery of punitive damages in Wrongful Death lawsuits. There are some states, either because they specifically allow punitive recovery or because they do not have a law regarding the issue, in which punitive damages may be recovered in Wrongful Death cases. Many states are seeking to limit or eliminate punitive damages. A qualified lawyer in your area will best be able to advise you with regard to your states specific laws concerning punitive damages.