The element covers loss of comfort, guidance, protection, and companionship. Availability depends on the statute, with pecuniary-only jurisdictions excluding it entirely.
Grief of the survivors is distinct and separately treated.
Alternative Names:
Loss of Society|Companionship Damages
Why it Matters?
Relationship quality evidence is admissible and relevant where the element is recoverable, which makes estrangement, limited contact, and documented conflict legitimate subjects rather than improper attacks on the decedent. Handling that evidence requires care, since juries respond poorly to perceived disparagement of a deceased person. Presenting the factual record without characterization is more effective than argument.
Frequently Confused with
Related terms
Frequently asked questions
Is relationship quality evidence admissible?
How should that evidence be handled?
