What Factors Will Determine How My Loved One’s Estate Will Be Handled?

Marital status, state of residency, existence of children, debts, and other factors are involved in determining how your loved one's estate will be handled.

In all cases, all debts and court fees must be settled first. Only then is the remainder of the assets divided between surviving relatives. If your loved one had a substantial estate, the state may appoint someone to handle its administration and division.