Legal Issues

Here you will find a growing list of legal considerations to consider before and after the death. By visiting the Community Links Section within our site you will be directed to the closest lawyer or law firm that is known in the areas of estate planning and settlement legal matters. Our legal team in this area continue to provide informational input within our site for families seeking answers to their unresolved questions.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.