In Tennessee, a wrongful death claim is generally brought by the deceased person's surviving spouse, children, next of kin, or personal representative, and are generally subject to a one-year limitations period that may begin before death. Accrual, discovery rules, and statutory exceptions can affect the deadline. Families may recover damages such as medical and funeral expenses, lost earnings, and the loss of their loved one's companionship.
Wrongful death cases we handle
- Fatal car, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents
- Fatal truck accidents
- Deaths caused by defective products and medical devices
- Fatal workplace and construction accidents
- Other deaths caused by negligence
Who can file a wrongful death claim in Tennessee
Under Tenn. Code Ann. § 20-5-107, a wrongful death action may be brought by the personal representative of the person who died, or by the surviving spouse. If there is no surviving spouse, the children or next of kin may bring the claim. Family situations can be complicated, and we can help you understand who has the right to act. Timing matters, so do not delay.
What damages may be available
- Medical expenses and funeral and burial costs
- The pain and suffering the person experienced before death
- Lost earnings and the financial value of the person's life
- Loss of the love, companionship, and guidance of a spouse or parent
Tennessee's caps on non-economic damages may apply, with certain exceptions (Tenn. Code Ann. § 29-39-102).
How we help
We handle the investigation, the insurance companies, and the court process so your family can grieve. Christopher Gilreath works with you personally and keeps you informed at every step. Tennessee wrongful-death claims generally have a one-year limitations period. The deadline may begin before death, and accrual, discovery rules, and statutory exceptions can affect the calculation. Contact an attorney promptly to determine the deadline that applies.
Attorney experience
R. Christopher Gilreath has represented grieving families for more than 25 years. In Knowles et al. v. State of Tennessee, he represented the family of John Snapp, killed in a collision with a tractor operated by the State, obtaining a wrongful death verdict. In Jeannie Townsend et al. v. Flowmaster et al., he represented multiple families in injury and death cases after a drag race car sped into a festival crowd.
Each case is different. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. All advertised results are based on past cases and their individual facts and circumstances. The outcome of your case will depend on your unique facts and circumstances.
Serving clients across Tennessee
We represent wrongful death clients from our principal office in Memphis, with private client meetings in Nashville by appointment only, and throughout Knoxville and East Tennessee.
Wrongful Death FAQ
Who can file a wrongful death lawsuit in Tennessee?
Generally the surviving spouse or the personal representative of the estate. If there is no surviving spouse, the children or next of kin may file (Tenn. Code Ann. § 20-5-107).
How long does a family have to file a wrongful death claim?
Tennessee wrongful-death claims generally have a one-year limitations period. The deadline may begin before death, and accrual, discovery rules, and statutory exceptions can affect the calculation. Contact an attorney promptly to determine the deadline that applies.
Can a family recover for the loss of companionship?
Yes. Tennessee law allows recovery for the loss of a loved one's love, companionship, and guidance, subject to the state's damages caps and their exceptions. However, there are specific evidentiary requirements set by law. Contact us to discuss your situation.
Written and reviewed by attorney R. Christopher Gilreath. Last updated September 30, 2026. This page provides general information, not legal advice. No attorney fee is charged unless we recover compensation for you. Depending on your written fee agreement, you may be responsible for case costs and expenses.