Q: My adult children's dad just died. What do they need to do to get things in order? It is just the two of them.
Is an attorney needed? He has a home, a few bills, and life insurance naming them as beneficiaries. We don't know where to start. He has a checking and savings account, too. Should they still pay his credit card debts, too? He was not married and all his assets were in his name only. Please advice. Thank you!
A:
This is not legal advice or intended to be used as such.
If there is no Willl or Trust then we are probably dealing with intestacy. Real estate, unless titled in a particular manner, would probably require a probate. Creditors, like credit card companies, must be notified of the probate and given an opportunity to file claims. This may be a simple or complex issue. Most attorneys will visit over the telephone at no cost but only to see if they are able to provide you, or your children, services for a fee.
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