Riverside Funeral Directors

          Brian D. Kuratko

          Owner/Director

          708-609-5585

Legal and Insurance Information

Legal Information/Probating a Will

Perhaps one of the most important tasks you now face is the disposition of a loved one's estate. Whether or not the deceased had a will can make a great difference in the time and effort involved in the proper disposition. It is suggested that you obtain legal advice on the array of different matters such as the disbursement or conversion of assets, changing of property deeds and titles, the disposition of bank accounts, stocks and bonds, and the disposition of business assets.

If you do not have an attorney, now is a good time to find one. The best method for finding an attorney is through friends and relatives, or by calling your local bar association.

If your loved one had a will, it will need to be probated. Probate is the legal procedure for the orderly distribution of estates. In most cases, probating a will is a simple process. Only in the instance where the will is being contested or the deceased had numerous holdings will the action be more complex. There is usually a specific time within which a will must be probated, so it is important to check carefully.

If there is no will, the estate will be disposed of according to the state laws governing descent and distribution. Preparation and/or review of your own will is also an important consideration at this time. It is the best way to assure that your estate is handled according to your desires.

Please email and we will provide you with contact information for county and federal offices you may need to contact to settle the estate.

Life Insurance Information

Traditionally, life insurance companies require only two forms to establish proof for a claim; (1) a statement of claim, and (2) a certified copy of a death certificate. Please remember that this is a general statement. Your insurance companies reserve the right to request further information or proof that they deem necessary.

When filing a claim form, you should have available the following information:

1. Full name and address of the company

2. The policy number(s) and the face amount

3. The full name and address of the deceased (or insured)

4. His or Her occupation and the last date worked

5. His or her date and place of birth and the source of the birth information

6. Date, place, and cause of death

7. Claimant's name, age, address, Social Security Number, and date of birth

Most of the above information is listed on the death certificate. Please call Riverside Funeral Directors if you need assistance filing the claim.