Life takes many unexpected turns and sometimes loved ones die suddenly and without warning. When this happens, the deceased may not have a will prepared for their assets to be distributed upon their death. There are many outcomes to this situation depending on factors like marital status, whether or not they have children, and whether they have surviving parents or siblings.

3 steps to take if a relative dies without a will include are:

  1. Consult an attorney: Not many people know who inherits property in someone dies without a will. Consulting an estate attorney is one of the best things you can do since an estate attorney has experience in this area and is familiar with North Carolina laws about wills and trusts. Having an experienced estate attorney is also helpful if the deceased has unusual assets or a large number of assets.
  2. Settle debts and court fees: Before any assets can be divided up by the state, the deceased’s estate should still go through the probate process, even if there is no will.  Remaining debts and court fees from the deceased must still be dealt with.
  3. Find out who may inherit any assets: It is important to know if the deceased was married, had surviving parents or siblings, or had children because if there is no will, any number of people may possibly inherit the deceased’s assets. There are basic rules of who will receive what in an estate that can easily be explained by an attorney.

While nobody wants to think about the possibility of untimely death, it is something that happens every day. It’s important to have an estate plan in place so that your family can avoid a lot of confusion and fights over your assets after your death. Thornton Law Firm can help with many of your estate planning needs. Contact us today and we can get started.