Step 1: Notify the Authorities

If the death occurs at home and is unexpected, your first step should be to call emergency services. If your loved one was under the care of a doctor or hospice, notify them, and they will guide you through the process. If the death happens in a hospital or care home, the staff will handle this for you.

Step 2: Get a Medical Certificate

A medical certificate confirming the cause of death is required before you can register the death. This certificate is usually provided by the doctor who was treating the deceased. In the case of unexpected or unexplained deaths, the Coroner may be involved, which could delay this step.

Step 3: Register the Death

You must register the death within five days (in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) or eight days (in Scotland). This can usually be done at your local Register Office. You will need the medical certificate and may also be asked for details such as the deceased’s full name, date, and place of birth, and occupation. Once the death is registered, you will receive the Death Certificate and the necessary documents to arrange the funeral.

Step 4: Arrange the Funeral

With the death registered, you can proceed with funeral arrangements. Check if your loved one left a Will or any instructions regarding their funeral wishes. If there is no Will, the closest family members will typically make the decisions. Funeral Directors can help you with the planning and ensure that everything is handled with care and respect.

Step 5: Notify Relevant Parties

Inform family members and friends about the death. Additionally, you will need to notify Government agencies, banks, insurance companies, and any other organisations with which the deceased had dealings. You may want to use the “Tell Us Once” service, available in the UK, which allows you to report a death to most Government organisations in one go.

Step 6: Locate the Will

Finding the Will is crucial as it outlines how your loved one’s estate should be managed and distributed. The Executor named in the Will is responsible for carrying out these wishes. If you’re not sure where the Will is kept, check with the deceased’s solicitor, bank, or personal papers. You can also look at the National Will Register to check if a Will has been registered with them.

Step 7: Begin the Probate Process

If your loved one left a Will, the Executor will need to apply for probate (known as confirmation in Scotland). Probate gives the Executor the legal authority to manage the deceased’s estate. This can include paying debts, closing accounts, and distributing assets according to the Will. If there is no Will, an Administrator will be appointed by the court to handle these responsibilities.

Step 8: Manage the Estate

Once probate is granted, the Executor or Administrator can begin managing the estate. This involves collecting assets, settling debts, and distributing the remaining estate to the beneficiaries as outlined in the Will. Here at Oak Shields, we can deal with a range of  disputes or complexities, so get in touch if you have any questions.

Step 9: Consider the Financial Implications

Handling an estate can have financial implications, including taxes. Depending on the size and complexity of the estate, inheritance tax may be due. The Executor is responsible for ensuring that all taxes are paid before the estate is distributed. Professional advice can help ensure everything is handled correctly.

Step 10: Seek Support

Finally, it’s important to take care of yourself during this time. Dealing with the death of a loved one will be emotionally taxing, so don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or professional counsellors. There are also many charities and organisations that offer bereavement support.