Legal Issues

Welcome to our Estate Issues section.  In this section we hope to bring you sound, practical guidance for settling an estate. Here you will find a growing list of legal issues to consider before and after the death.

However, we do not wish to suggest that you do not require a solicitor, nor are we attempting to substitute for sound legal advice.  When in doubt, consult with a lawyer on estate matters - in the end it could save you money!  Any honest, credible lawyer will be straight-forward and tell you what you need to know.  If there are things you can do yourself, or if the estate does not require a solicitor, they will let you know.  A good lawyer will not charge you for services your do not need, but can be far less expensive than potentially costly mistakes if you do it all yourself. If you do not have a lawyer, or are unsure of where to turn, please feel free to give us a call.  We have dealings with many law firms in town, and can make some helpful suggestions

Do I need a Lawyer?

Lawyers are society's professional problem solvers, and when you have estate issues to deal with, there's no doubt an experienced attorney can help you navigate the legalities of dying. Here's how.

Important Documents

Certainly, no one expects the death of a family member to involve so much paperwork and documentation. But the reality is, you're going to need to locate copies of different documents, including insurance and tax forms, wills, banking records, and deeds. Learn more here.

Estate Settlement Issues

Without doubt, the months following the passing of a family member can be a confusing time. Not only are you grieving, you're faced with handling estate settlement issues involving wills, probate, Social Security and taxes. Certainly, our insights on estate settlement issues can help.

Death Certificates

The death certificate, the permanent record of the fact of death, is perhaps the single most important document you'll need in the coming weeks. Learn how we can help you obtain certified copies.

Accounts & Deposit Boxes

Dealing with practicalities after a family member's passing can involve the closing or reassignment of bank accounts and safety deposit boxes, as well as the deposit of insurance benefit or reimbursement checks. Read this if you need information on common banking procedures and requirements.

Executors

What is an executor? What are his or her responsibilities? Learn everything you need to know about appointing an executor; including why you need one, who can serve as executor, his or her right of refusal, and guidelines for financial compensation for services rendered.

Administration of a Will

Wills are simple, inexpensive ways to address many estates. But they don't do it all. Here are some things that may not be accomplished in a will.

Questions About Wills

A will is a valuable document, but it only goes so far in protecting an estate. If you're curious about how a will can't be used; or need answers to questions like "What makes a will legal?" we invite you to read this page.

Joint Property may avoid Probate

Probate is usually the last thing anyone wants to think about when a family member dies. But, if you've recently experienced the passing of a loved one, it's something you'll need to handle. Take time to learn what you need to know about probate.

Notify Creditors

There are so many social connections you will need to notify of the death of your loved one. What should be your top priority? Follow our guidelines and 4-step notification process.

Newspaper Guidelines