Traditionally a member of a family could not sue another member of a family, which is known as the family immunity doctrine. It was intended to promote the preservation of family unity, the interests of society in maintaining the character of its homes, and to prevent against defrauding insurance companies from collusion between a parent and child. Over the last 40 years states have developed exceptions to this rule where a family member can sue another family member. Contact a wrongful death attorney for more information on the law in your state and who can be sued in a wrongful death claim.