Author: Susan G. Parker, Esq
Buy Book: Amazon
Whether a loved one is ill and you fear the worst, you’re dealing with a sudden and unexpected death, or you’re the executor named to handle the affairs of someone who’s just died, this book will help you understand what needs to be done. It can also help you get your own affairs in order, if you don’t want to leave a mess for your family.
Written by an attorney who specializes in trusts and estates, this simple guide shepherds you through the end-of-life process, from near death to probate. It’s a compassionate insider’s take on preparing for wrapping up another’s life, from calling the coroner’s office to making funeral arrangements and protecting assets.
In the final stage of a last illness, you’ll want to be sure you understand end-of-life wishes—including a living will, anatomical gifts, burial instructions and the location of important legal documents such as a will, deed or trust. You’ll need to quickly get up to speed to discover online passwords, safeguard assets and notify next of kin (for the funeral and probate).
There’s a lot to take care of at a time when feelings of loss and emotions may run high, and we want you to be as prepared as possible with the things you can control.
We cover that all here. And make it easy to understand.
Real Life Legal™ wants you to be prepared.
Susan G. Parker is a tax attorney who specializes in estate, elder and business planning. She is licensed to practice law in New York and Florida.
What This Book’s About
Wrapping Up Another’s Affairs
If the End Is Near
Do I Need a Lawyer?
When Hiring a Lawyer Makes Sense
Factors That Suggest You Should Hire a Lawyer
When You May Not Need a Lawyer
Dealing with Physical Death
Notifying Others of a Death
Side Effects of Published Death Notices
Decedent’s Wishes Concerning Funerals and Memorials
Burial Wishes
State Law Governs Burial Wishes
Locating Burial Instructions
Making Funeral Arrangements
Don’t Go It Alone
Getting Aid to Pay for Funerals
Getting Death Certificates
When Death Certificates Are Needed
Get Out-of-Towners to Sign Necessary Legal Documents
Action Required Within a Week of Death
Think Before Cutting Off Services
Securing a Decedent’s Property
After the Funeral
Reviewing the Will
What If You Can’t Find a Will?
A Safe Deposit Box
Information Gathering
Review Incoming Mail
Locate Legal Documents and Important Papers
Cash Needs
Evidence of Debts and Medical Expenses
Keep an Eye on Assets
About Social Security Benefits
Getting Ready for Estate Administration
What Estate Administration Involves
State Law Governs
Operation of Law to Pass Assets
Getting Appointed as Executor or Administrator
Don’t Be Surprised by What You Feel
Summary Checklist
Glossary
About the Author
Real Life Legal™