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.