What happens to legal records when someone dies? How can you find them?

Question

Been doing some genealogy work and wondered legally what an attorney has to do with the files of someone who has expired. Do they go straight into the trash? Is there any way to find out say who was the attorney of my great grandfather who lived in Manhatten in the 30s through the 50s? And if you could find that out and the firm was still in business - would they possibly share what records they had? Or would they legally be prevented from doing so?

Clarifying - asking more about all the relative's legal dealings as opposed to just death, marriage, births. Business contracts, divorce records, law suits...all that juicy stuff.

Answer 1

All legal documents can never be thrown away. They are all stored some where. The records would most likely be stored at the local record building or court house. Some places even keep things on micro film.

If you are looking for your family members I suggest that, depending on where you live, to talk to some one keeps records for a living. I do know, however, that medical records can be attaind being going to the clinic your family member went to. There will be a lot of questions that will need to be answered.

As for looking for the attorney that worked for your great grandfather, I have no idea. But I would presonaly google the name, if you know it, and see what you get.

The last two questions are difficult to answer because it would depend on the governing rules of that state.

I wish you the best of luck with your genealogy! ^.^

Answer 2

Death, marriage, and other vital statistic records are always available in the public recorders office. There may be a charge to otbain them, but you should be able to as long as you can prove relationship.

Answer 3

If you are an heir, you shouldn't have too much trouble going to the courthouse where your great grandfather crossed over. The records are public.