Any person who believes that he or she may be a survivor or beneficiary entitled to compensation because of a wrongful death would have the right to consider starting the investigation of a potential claim. Sometimes the most logical person to investigate or start a claim (such as a widow) is not willing or able to look into the matter. In such a situation, any survivor or beneficiary may petition the court to name them as the personal representative of the estate of the deceased if an estate is not opened already.