The pain and trauma surrounding the death of a loved one can leave you paralyzed, but if you find yourself in this situation, there are details you'll need to attend to if you want to avoid problems in the long run. Based in Rochester, NY, Robert A. Schwartz is an attorney who offers assistance with everything from credit card debt to wills to vehicle repossession. This estate lawyer says there are certain issues you'll have to face with a loved one's passing.

Here are three of these issues, along with suggestions on how to address them:

• Funeral Expenses: Burial expenses can be costly enough to incur credit card debt. Specialized lending companies will provide you with loans to cover the funeral expenses if you meet their credit requirements. Some funeral homes also extend credit, though in some cases, their interest rates can be steep. If you fall below a certain income level, your local government may provide assistance, and Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid may also be able to help.

• Obtaining A Death Certificate: You'll need a death certificate to obtain a life insurance payout or to terminate the deceased's pension plan and healthcare. It's usually filed by the health department in the county in which the death took place. The funeral home submits the paperwork required for a death certificate, but if you aren't working with a funeral home, you'll need to contact the health department yourself to obtain this document.
• Wills & Division Of Assets: The deceased's assets will need to be distributed to the rightful heirs. A will and estate lawyer will help you with this process. If you're named as a beneficiary in the deceased's will, you may have to go to court to collect your inheritance. 

Whether you need an estate lawyer or someone to help you find your way out of credit card debt, Robert A. Schwartz has the skills to provide an efficient solution. Learn more by calling (585) 351-2929 or by visiting this Rochester estate lawyer online.