Posted: 3/28/2010 7:32:04 AM EDT
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A close friend of mine lost his father last Thursday night due to a gunshot wound to the head. Not only did he lose him, he witnessed it. Apparently, it was self-inflicted and accidental. This man was also a great friend of mine through the years.
We have spoken a few times over the weekend, and obviously, he's pretty torn up. There isn't much I can do but offer gentle words and help him out as much as I can. He called last night and was quite angry. It seems his grandmother (father's mother) is handling all the funeral arrangements and has told him that he is not welcome, and that he will get nothing of his father's. I told him that he eventually needs to seek the advice of a lawyer. I've never had to go through this process myself. I'm sure I will in the future, but I cannot fathom this hardship. He told me that he was worried all his father's possessions will either be destroyed or sold off. He remembers his father speaking of a will a number of years ago. My question is, if there was a will written, when does it go into effect? Will he be contacted by a bank or a lawyer? Is it up to him to track it down? We're just not familiar with this process. Any help is appreciated. |