Of course you will grieve the loss of a loved one, but after the grieving has taken place, families need to get certain affairs in order. From creditors trying to collect on bills, to trying to hash out investments, to the probate court hearing where a family member is trying to take certain property, claiming they were improperly left out of the will. So what do you do following death of a loved one? Click here to find out how a probate lawyer can help you put things in order, and ensure your family member’s final wishes are ultimately met.
Consult a lawyer
Yes, it is a tough time, and yes you want time to grieve. But if the individual who passed away was in charge of finances, paying the bills, and other important family decisions, a lawyer will help you get these things in order. From closing certain accounts, to having accounts closed out, to having life insurance payments made, the right lawyers will help you hash out the final details. A lawyer will also help finalize the death certificate (which is required to have certain accounts closed or to gain access to certain accounts) after a loved one has passed away.
The probate process
From disbursing assets, to determining which family member gets the house or boat, the will and trust documents are essential pieces of information which have to be visited following the death of a family member. Working with a lawyer and going through the probate process with a legal team on your side, is the best way to ensure the terms of the will and trusts will be met. Especially if there are family members who were left out of the will, who are trying to attain certain property or money, the right lawyers will work to ensure they do not collect anything they weren’t devised in the will.
Notifications
From notifying employers, to government officials, to the banks who are trying to collect payments you can’t afford, you must inform certain entities and individuals of the passing of your family member. Although it is a troubling time, and it is something you don’t want to do, this is the only way to ensure you aren’t left with financial burdens you can’t pay, or having to pay on accounts which were not yours. Again, a lawyer will work with you to present all death certificates, and necessary documentation, so that you aren’t left with certain burdens and finances you simply can’t afford to pay.
It is a troubling time for most families; but, in certain families, this is when fighting and deceiving behavior occurs. Especially in instances where money and property are left behind (in high amounts) and a particular person was left out of the will or trust. If this is the case, and you do not know how to handle certain things, or do not know where to begin, these are a few of the reasons to work with a law firm, and have them handle the family affairs and business affairs after a loved one’s death.
