What to Do When a Family Member or Loved One Dies

The death of a family member or close friend can be an emotional time. We may be ill-prepared for what needs to be addressed, as well as distracted and even vulnerable at the time we need to be at our best.
There are a few legal matters that need to be dealt with, and a lot of practical issues that have to be addressed. Family and friends must be notified, an obituary notice prepared and funeral arrangements made. Here are a few other issues to be dealt with right away:
1. Pets need to be taken care of.
2. Is security at the decedent’s home a concern? Someone should be detailed to turn lights on and off, pick up newspapers and collect the mail. Locks may need to be changed.
3. The home should be cleaned out of anything perishable.
4. Mail should be forwarded.
5. Keep a log and/or spreadsheet to show all expenditures and time spent on the decedent’s affairs.
6. Seek access to the safe deposit box to obtain the original will.
7. Cut up and return credit cards in the decedent’s name.
What’s missing from this list? Call the lawyer. In most cases, you will need to meet with the attorney, so it’s important to set up an appointment early. Some circumstances will need to be addressed with an attorney like if there is a relative who is trying to remove valuable personal property without proper authority, or if your loved one lived in a rental unit.
Making financial decisions and changes without legal counsel after the death of a loved one could also result in extra, unnecessary taxes being paid.
Poserina & McHugh focus on Elder Law issues.  Robert Poserina and Andrea McHugh can help guide you through the legal issues of Medicare/Nursing Home Planning, Estate Planning, Wills, Trusts, Guardianships, Powers of Attorney, Probate, Estate Administration, Estate Litigation and Contested Wills.   Located at 1029 Rt. 9 S. in Cape May Court House. Visit www.capemaycountyelderlaw.com or call (609) 463-8125 for more information.