What happens to a person’s financial assets, possessions, and outstanding debts after death?
If there is a will, the custodian of the will must deposit it with the clerk of the court within 10 days of learning of the person’s death. You may want to consult with an attorney to find out whether a probate proceeding is required. When probate is required, the personal representative (either named in the will or appointed by the court) is required to notify the beneficiaries of the will, publish a notice to creditors, and other tasks. The representative can also hire an attorney to handle settlement of the estate. For more information on this process, contact an attorney or the probate court.
