In brief
Taking reasonable steps to safeguard assets can prevent loss while authority, insurance and ownership are clarified.
What to do next
- Check locks, utilities and property conditions
- Notify relevant insurers as appropriate
- Preserve mail and financial records lawfully
- Document valuable personal property
- Ask who is legally authorized before selling or transferring assets
Questions worth asking
Who has legal authority? Which assets are involved? Which state’s law applies? Are there court deadlines, tax issues, or disagreements that require professional advice?
Where to go from here
Use the state directory to locate the relevant jurisdiction and verify current requirements with official courts or government agencies. The free tools can help organize information before a professional appointment.