The Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) is a Federal law that may apply when an individual dies while on the 'high seas'. Generally the high seas are defined as at least 3 miles off the coastline, but in some cases it can be extended further based on the original wording of the statute. If the death occurs inside of 3 miles (or perhaps further if the dividing line can be extended) then DOHSA does not apply to the death. Unfortunately when DOHSA does apply a surviving spouse or child's recovery for their deceased loved one can be greatly limited. DOHSA is typically used by the defendant company to limit recovery of damages.