Perhaps one of the most important tasks you now face is the disposition of a loved one's estate. Whether or not the deceased had a will can make a great difference in the time and effort involved in the proper disposition. It is suggested that you obtain legal advice on the different matters such as the disbursement or conversion of assets, changing of property deeds and titles, the disposition of bank accounts, stocks and bonds and the disposition of business assets.
If you do not have a lawyer, now is a good time to find one. The best way of finding a lawyer is through friends and relatives or by calling our office for a reference.
If your loved one had a will, it may need to be probated. Probate is the legal procedure for the orderly distribution of estates. In most cases, probating a will is a simple process. In instances where the will is being contested or the deceased had numerous holdings will the action be more complex. There is usually a specific time within which a will must be probated, so it is important to check carefully.
If there is no will, the estate will be disposed of according to the provincial laws governing descent and distribution.
Preparation and or review of your own will are also an important consideration at this time. It is the best way to assure that your estate is handled according to your desires.
Traditionally, life insurance companies require only two forms to establish proof for a claim; (1) a statement of claim, and (2) a certified copy of a death certificate or a Funeral Directors Statement of Death. Please remember that this is a general statement. Insurance companies reserve the right to request further information or proof that they deem necessary.
When filing a claim form, you should have available the following information: