What To Do After A Loved One Passes Away
The time after a loved one has passed away is extremely difficult. You will be grieving, trying to move forward with your life, and may be unsure of what steps to take next related to the passing. Below, our St. Petersburg probate administration lawyer outlines what to do next.
Make Funeral and Burial Arrangements
Typically, funerals are held within one to two weeks of a death. This allows time to give notice to friends and family, and for people to make travel arrangements. Sometimes, religious practices require funerals to be held much sooner than that. Working with your loved ones and the funeral dirtier, you should make all necessary arrangements, plan a service, as well as a burial or cremation, depending on your loved one’s wishes.
Secure the Home and Property of the Deceased
If your loved one lived by themselves, it is important to secure their home and property, such as their vehicle. Discard any perishable items in their home and remove any garbage. Lock all doors and windows to ensure the property is secure. If relatives wish to remove property, such as mementos from the home, document what has been taken. This can help avoid disputes when the estate is being administered.
Get Mail Forwarded
Contact the post office and get your loved one’s mail forwarded. This not only helps ensure that your loved one’s final bills are paid, but it also keeps mail from piling up at their home. A compilation of mail shows that no one is home or no one lives there, and increases the likelihood that someone will break in.
Obtain the Death Certificate
You need the death certificate to start the probate process. Contact the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics to obtain the certificate and request at least ten copies. When notifying different government agencies, they will also require a copy of the death certificate.
Identify the Personal Representative of the Estate
The personal representative of an estate has many different duties after someone passes away. They must submit a copy of the will to the probate court, locate beneficiaries, create an inventory of assets, and identify and pay debts. Essentially, the personal representative must administer the entire estate with the oversight of the probate court. Locate the personal representative of the estate so these tasks can be started as soon as possible. The personal representative will be named in the decedent’s will or other parts of the estate plan. If the deceased did not name a personal representative, the probate court will appoint one.
Speak to a Probate Administration Attorney in St. Petersburg
One of the most important steps to take after a loved one passes away is to speak to a St. Petersburg probate administration attorney. At Legacy Protection Lawyers, LLP, we can assist with opening your probate case, guide you through the process, resolve any disputes along the way, and help make this difficult time easier for you and your family. Call us now at 727-471-5868 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
floridahealth.gov/certificates/certificates/death/index.html
