It’s important that you find out whether the deceased made a will and discover where it is located. If you cannot find the will, their solicitor may have a copy.
If your loved one has left a will, they will have typically chosen at least one person to act as the executor of the will; this is often a relative or close friend. The will may include instructions for funeral arrangements, which will need to be followed or taken into account when arranging your loved one’s funeral.
If you are the executor of the will, then it is your duty to identify the assets and debts of the estate and distribute them accordingly. Depending on the size of the estate and the kinds of asset within it, you may need to apply for probate.
If someone dies without making a will, they are said to have died ‘intestate’. You will need to decide who will sort out the deceased’s estate and contact the Probate Registry to apply for ‘letters of administration’.
Read the full guide: How to deal with an estate after death
At Dignity, we provide you with a complimentary Legal Services membership package if you arrange a funeral with us. It gives you 12 months free legal advice and practical support on matters you are facing now and may face in the future.
Our hands-on support means we offer practical help with tasks such as closing bank accounts, understanding if probate is required or looking after an empty property. In fact, whatever legal issues you or your family has to deal with over the next year, you’ll be able to contact your own dedicated advisor for advice, as often as you need to.
Dignity's Legal Service membership package is free when you choose to arrange a funeral with us
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