Mandatory formalities in case of death

The finality of someone’s passing can be a solemn time for the deceased’s loved ones. No one wants to be indelicate, but there are always legal details to sort out surrounding someone’s passing. Here’s what it all entails.

Death and Documentation

When a loved one passes, the last thing on anyone’s mind is the minutiae of death claims, documentation or notifications. There are a couple of things every family should keep in mind, when experiencing the first few hours of a passing in the family. Firstly, family members should focus on obtaining a medical certificate that states the time of death. Only then can the individual be taken to a funeral home. Next of kin family members should also notify others, including authorities, that the individual has passed within one or two days of the event. Only then can a final will and testament hearing proceed.

Organizing the Funeral

If death is accidental, then the police must be notified. It’s only after the cause of death has been determined and the body returned to the family that a funeral can occur. In order to initiate the process, a certificate must be issued and shown to the funeral home. Oftentimes, the earliest a funeral may take place is within 48 hours of the deceased’s passing. If there are claim applications, this will also have to be taken into consideration. While some funeral services are free, such as transportation or burial and memorial service, other aspects of the deceased’s wishes, such as cremation, may be at extra cost.

If it’s an overly emotional time for the next of kin, there is always have the option to hire a funeral organizer. The individual’s personal and/or family lawyer should organize the hearing of the last will and produce affidavits. If deceased passes while abroad, foreign authorities must issue a foreign medical certificate and send it out to the home country.