What to Do After a Loved One Dies: A Step-by-Step Legal Checklist

Summary:
In this episode, Andy explains what to do after a loved one passes away. He walks families through both the emotional and legal steps they should take, including how to handle grieving, order death certificates, locate important estate planning documents, and contact Social Security. Andy also shares how his firm’s “Legacy Portal” helps families stay organized and avoid confusion during a difficult time. He explains what probate is, how it works, and how to keep assets out of court through proper planning.

Key Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
01:15 – Focus on Family and Grieving
02:30 – Ordering Death Certificates
04:45 – Finding Estate Planning Documents
06:40 – The Legacy Portal
09:50 – When a Will Can’t Be Found
11:15 – Where to Store Legal Documents
13:30 – Contacting Social Security
14:20 – Understanding Probate
16:00 – What Assets Go Through Probate
17:00 – Joint Ownership vs. Trusts
18:30 – Final Thoughts

Show Description:
When a loved one passes away, knowing what to do next can ease both emotional and legal stress. In this episode, Andy outlines the essential steps families should take after a death—from ordering death certificates and finding wills to understanding probate and the role of trusts. He also explains how his firm’s Legacy Portal helps clients stay organized and make the process easier for their families.