Understandably, the death of a loved one or family member can be devastating. As you sort through the complex emotional difficulties of your loved one’s passing, you may also become overwhelmed by the logistical and legal steps that need to be addressed. For many people, the thought of wading through confusing legal documents or figuring out what to do with the loved one’s assets can be particularly daunting when grieving a spouse, child, or close family member. However, with a dedicated and empathetic probate attorney or trust administration attorney by your side, you can create a clear roadmap of each step that needs to be taken to settle your loved one’s estate and ensure that their legacy endures.
For six decades, the experienced and compassionate legal team at Myatt & Bell, P.C. has worked with individuals and families throughout Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington to help them navigate the death of a loved one and move through the probate, trust administration process smoothly and successfully.
We believe in putting your best interests at the heart of everything we do so that you can receive customized and effective legal guidance with the empathy and compassion you need during this challenging time. This post is the first in a series of topics addressing the probate and trust administration processes with the goal of helping you and your family understand the general steps to take and what to expect after the death of a loved one. Let’s take a look at some of the immediate steps after death that loved ones can take and how partnering with a knowledgeable probate or trust administration lawyer can help you navigate these processes with greater understanding and confidence.
What to Do When Someone Dies in Oregon or Washington State
In the wake of a loved one’s passing, there are logistical steps that need to be taken to address the administration of their estate. Below is a list of some of the key legal steps after a death that need attention within the next few days, weeks, and months.
Obtain the Death Certificate
In order to begin managing financial and legal matters following the death of a loved one, you will need to obtain an official death certificate. Essentially, a death certificate serves as proof of the individual’s passing and is necessary to close the estate of the deceased. Although securing death certificates is a crucial step in the estate administration process, it’s rarely discussed or addressed as part of the estate management process. To obtain a death certificate, you will need to go through an application process via the Oregon Health Authority. Washington residents can go through a similar application process through the Washington State Department of Health. You will likely need several copies of the death certificate for various legal and estate management matters.
Notify Key Authorities and Organizations
Another immediate step after a loved one’s death that needs to be addressed is notifying authorities and organizations of their passing. For instance, the Social Security Administration (SSA) will need to be contacted. Many funeral homes handle this task on behalf of the bereaved family, but it’s important to check whether you will need to notify the SSA if the funeral home does not offer this service. You should also contact any financial institutions associated with the deceased person, such as their banks, asset management companies, or financial advisors. Insurance providers will also need to be contacted and informed of your loved one’s passing. If you have specific questions about how to contact any of these agencies, feel free to raise them with one of our highly experienced and caring Oregon and Washington estate planning attorneys.
Secure the Property and Important Documents
As you prepare for the estate administration process in Portland or Vancouver, it’s important to compile all important information and documents associated with the decedent’s finances and property. Not only will organizing these documents help to ease the estate administration process when the time comes, but safeguarding this sensitive information can also prevent identity theft and other potential risks during this vulnerable time.
Who to Call For Legal Guidance
Many people wonder who to call when someone dies. The aftermath of this monumental loss is often overwhelming and disorienting, so it’s worth taking some time to recognize potential sources of much-needed support and guidance. Reaching out to a compassionate and trusted estate planning, probate, or trust administration attorney can give you the answers and support you need to move through this challenging time. Generally speaking, enlisting legal guidance earlier in the process is highly recommended, as it can prevent confusion and minimize potential disputes among grieving loved ones.
At Myatt & Bell, P.C., our mission is to provide exceptional and effective legal guidance with the utmost care, sensitivity, and compassion our clients deserve. As soon as you contact us, we’ll get to work assisting you and supporting you through the legal and logistical processes that await you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Legal Steps to Take After a Loved One’s Passing
Do I Need a Lawyer Immediately After a Death?
Not always, but consulting with an attorney can help clarify your legal responsibilities and protect against potential missteps.
Who Can Access the Will or Trust Documents?
Typically, the executor/personal representative (for a will) or trustee (for a trust) will have access, but legal assistance can help to ensure that the correct process is followed and respected.
What if a Will Cannot Be Found?
An attorney can help you locate a will or initiate probate proceedings without a will if necessary. Regardless of the specifics of your situation, we’re ready to help you move through each step of the process with greater understanding and certainty.
At Myatt & Bell, P.C., we are committed to approaching every client we serve with the compassion and care they need during challenging and overwhelming times of loss. If you are looking for empathetic and effective legal services in the wake of a loved one’s death, please reach out to our Portland, Oregon office at (503) 641-6262 or our Vancouver, Washington office at (360) 360-0212 to get started with an experienced attorney.
The content on this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The author of this blog is not an attorney, and the views expressed are solely those of the author. Always seek the advice of a qualified attorney for legal guidance regarding your unique situation.
