If you've recently lost a loved one, and you're preparing for the probate process, the first thing you need to do is hire a probate attorney. If your loved one took care of all the details prior to their passing, you might think that you can forgo the legal representation, but that's not usually the case. Even the simplest estate can hit bumps in the road. Unfortunately, these bumps can lead to costly delays, especially if you don't have a probate attorney working on your behalf. Before you go any further with the probate process, be sure to hire an attorney. Then you'll need to prepare for the initial appointment. Here are three steps you'll need to take to prepare for the initial appointment with your probate attorney. 

Order the Death Certificates

If your loved one has recently passed away, and you're preparing for the initial consultation with your probate attorney, the first thing you need to do is order the death certificate. You'll need certified copies of the death certificate for a variety of reasons following the death of your loved one. You might think that you can order one certified copy, and make additional copies as needed, but that's not the case. Life insurance providers, creditors, and the probate court will all require their own certified copy, which is why you should order several copies of the certified death certificate. Be sure to bring those with you to the appointment with your probate attorney. 

Locate the Most Recent Will

If your loved one had a will or estate plan in place at the time of their death, you'll need to provide those documents to your probate attorney, too. Your attorney will use those documents to open your probate case with the courts. If you're unable to locate a copy of your loved one's will, you can provide the name of the attorney that they used for their estate planning. If your loved one passed away intestate, or without a will, you'll need to let your attorney know that as soon as possible. Your attorney can take care of this issue during the probate process. 

Provide a List of Living Heirs

If you're dealing with the loss of your loved one, and you're preparing for your appointment with the probate attorney, now's the time to make a list of living heirs. These are the people who may have a claim to your loved one's estate. This list should include living children, siblings, and parents, as well as any ex-spouses who may want to claim their rights to the estate. 

For more information, reach out to a probate lawyer near you.