BASIC Legal INFORMATION

After a death, there are many legal details to hammer out.  While it is not necessary to get a lawyer, it is strongly recommended.  A lawyer will make sure all the ‘t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted”.  The time following a death of a loved one is extremely emotional, and even the closest family will have disagreements over the most trivial matters.  To make sure there is still peace in the family, it is a good idea to let a lawyer figure things out. 

Before getting in touch with a lawyer there are a few terms you may want to familiarize yourself with.  Those include:

• Wills
• Proof of Death's
• Power of Attorney's
• Executors

Wills

Everyone knows they should have a will, but the vast majority – about 70% of us – do not.  Writing a will is easy and inexpensive, and once you are done you can rest easy knowing your hard earned money and property will be distributed according to your wishes. See More

Proof of Death's

A Certified Proof of Death is necessary before anything can be done.  A Proof of Death can be obtained through a Funeral Director.​ See More

Power of Attorney

A Power of Attorney is a document which gives the individual you have appointed in your will the ability to make binding decisions for you while you are living. The Power of Attorney's responsibilities end at the time of death, at which point the Executor's responsibilities begin. See More

Executors

An executor is the personal representative of your estate.  They are the person in charge of taking control of your assets, paying off any debts, notifying creditors and other organizations and distributing assets to your beneficiaries per the terms and conditions of your will.  Many administrative tasks confront the executor.  Assistance is available to our families through a special arrangement with our affiliate, RESOLVED Executor Services. See More