Sometimes we get calls within a day or two of a loved one’s passing away by family members who wonder what they should do. The first thing that should be done is to handle the bereavement process. Spend time with family and friends and begin the grieving process before anything else.
There are many resources on line and in San Diego for information on the grieving process.
The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization is the largest nonprofit organization representing hospice and palliative care programs. In San Diego we have the Elizabeth Hospice, San Diego Hospice, and Hospice by the Sea to name just a few. For people dealing with the death of a child there is the Empty Cradle and the Jenna Druck Foundation.
Coping with the loss of a loved one is a process. In addition to the grief and bereavement resources listed here, there are many grief support groups at local churches or through professional counselors. Most support groups also can recommend books and articles on the subject.
We always tell our clients and potential clients that the first thing to do is to begin the healing process. In most cases, contacting us in several weeks will be fine to determine what needs to be done as far as estate and trust issues are concerned. Sometimes there are immediate issues that have to be addressed and the experienced estate planning attorneys at Law Office of Scott C. Soady, A Professional Corporation would be happy to assist with those if necessary. Feel free to contact us by phone or email if you have questions.