For the first six months after someone’s death, only the executor of their will (or an administrator of the estate, if there was no will) can start a claim for compensation. If no claim is made during this time, the right to make a claim opens up to the dependents of the deceased (usually their family).
Claims made by dependents can be split into two types:
- Bereavement award: A fixed sum paid for the emotional pain and suffering of losing a loved one. This can only be claimed by a very strict, narrow group of close relatives, including spouses, civil partners, and parents of minors.
- Dependency claim: A claim made by anyone who was financially or physically dependent on the deceased at the time of their death. This can include claims for things like lost salary, child support, childcare or property maintenance.
You can read more about claiming compensation when someone has died, including information on time limits for making a claim, in our dedicated guide below.
In rare cases, a close relative who was harmed or traumatised as a result of being present or close at the time of death may be able to claim compensation as a ‘secondary victim’. More information is available in the guide below.