Who do I contact in government or what steps do I take when a family member dies?

Question

My brother died at age 66 and left very little documentation about his property, dept....
Is this completely handled in probate?

Answer 1

call a 'probate lawyer' i think they have free first consultations

Answer 2

First, very sorry to hear this. And I hope everyone reading this will stop to realize how important it is to make a will. My Mom died way too young, and never made one feeling I was her only child, it all went to me no wories. It was a huge mess (sorry don't want to be discouraging but I want you to have your eyes open).

I would strongly suggest you find an atty to deal with this. Thankfully a family friend I've known since kindergarten helped me out and saved my life. Now granted my Mom had some stocks shared w/various relatives so it made some of it more complicated. You need to establish that you are the legal next of kin, and you'll have to get what's called Letters of Testimentary. I have no clue how you file for them, my atty did that. But with those you then can claim his possessions. If I recall correctly that did come at the time of probate.

I am sure you will have an easier time of it, but please be kind on yourself and get a decent atty. And I just realized I am assuming you are the only heir...if that's not the case then I'd say it's even more important to make sure it's sorted out legally and equitably. Plus they will handle any contacts that need be made, which varys according to assets etc (ie are there safety deposit boxes, stocks, etc etc).

BTW if there are safety deposit boxes and anyone is a co-signee even though what I'm saying is not legal and I therefore would never suggest it ;), that person might want to go make sure there are no important documents etc in there before they lock it. My Dad died when I was a teenager and the mess that caused was a many year nightmare...one my Mom left to me...goodie.

Best of luck to you! And if you do not personally know an atty I would STRONGLY suggest talking to friends and relatives to get a good one, or they can end up taking what you should have. Do try to get someone with a known, good recommendation!

Answer 3

gina has it right. the funeral directors have a lot of info on this. they can point you in the right direction. they did a lot for my bro in law when his aunt died.

Answer 4

go to the funeral home he went to , then see how they can help you actually they know allot and can point you in the right direction