In the midst of grieving the loss of a loved one, certain legal obligations must be met. This ensures the remains can be released to the family and an attorney can help settle the estate. The following advice will minimize stress while coping with loss.  

What to Do After a Loved One Dies

1. Get a Legal Pronouncement of Death

Before the body can be released to the family for funeral planning, a pronouncement of death form must be signed. If your loved one dies at a hospital, have a doctor or registered nurse complete the paperwork. In hospice, the care provider can fill out the form. If they died at home, call 9-1-1. Ask the dispatcher to send someone to complete the certificate.

2. Contact the Estate Lawyer

When a person dies, their debts must be settled and the remaining assets divided among the heirs. Your loved one’s estate planning attorney can help with these points. They have a copy of the will on file, which stipulates the deceased’s wishes, including the division of property. 

If the person died without a will, contact a probate attorney. They can help file the application for intestate probate. With this process, the court determines how the deceased’s assets will be divided and who will inherit. A personal representative is appointed to take inventory of the property, pay creditors, and distribute the rest of the estate to heirs.

3. Get in Touch With Insurers & Government Agencies 

So you have the pertinent information to settle the estate, you’ll need to reach out to multiple contacts. Look through the deceased’s personal files to find banking information, as you’ll need to access their accounts to pay debts.

Contact their insurance provider to complete the claim process, the Social Security office to apply for survivors’ benefits, and an accountant to determine the filing status for taxes.

For help navigating the legal process following a family member’s death, contact the attorneys at The Law Offices of Bromm, Lindahl, Freeman-Caddy & Lausterer in Wahoo, NE. With roots that date back to 1893, the law office has a long-established reputation for providing clients with sound counsel regarding estate, probate, and family law. For assistance in the Saunders County area, call (402) 443-3225. Visit the practice online to learn about the lawyers’ qualifications.