Wrongful Death Deadline vs. Personal Injury Statute of Limitations
New Hampshire's wrongful death deadline matches the general injury deadline, with extra steps for government defendants.
Three years
A wrongful death claim must generally be filed within three years from the date of death under RSA 556:11.
Compared with an injury claim
Most personal injury claims also get three years under RSA 508:4, so the family's period matches what the injured person would have had.
Medical malpractice
New Hampshire applies the general injury statute of limitations to malpractice, after the Supreme Court struck down the special malpractice deadline.
The state
A suit against the state has three years, but as a condition of suing, the agency must receive written notice within 180 days after the injury, stating the date, time and location.
A local personal injury attorney can review your claim — many offer a free consultation.
This is general information, not legal advice, and the state comparisons above are illustrative, not an exhaustive survey. Confirm how New Hampshire's rules apply to your specific case with a licensed New Hampshire attorney.