Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

My friend's father passed away. She was an authorized signor on his checking account to assist paying his bills while he was ill. She was also the contact person for the long term care facility that he stayed at before his passing. The final bill for services from the home was given to her after his passing, although her father had been paying the current bills for his stay and care. Her father did not have an estate, property or any monies remaining in his checking when he died. Is she responsible for paying his debt?


Asked on 1/03/10, 5:49 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

George Shers Law Offices of Georges H. Shers

Definitely not. None of the actions or things causing the bills were incurred for her benefit. None of the duties she performed would make her liable for any of the bills. She should inform all potential creditors that her father has dlied, that there is no money left in his checking account, that he has left behind no property, money , or assets of any but sentimental value, she has no legal responsibility for any of the debts and will not pay any of them, she does not plan to file for probate as there are no assets to probate, she has been advised by an attorney that sice there are no assets to pay the bills none of them can or will be paid beyond what has already happened, and that if nay of them should disagree them sjhould immediately contact her in writing strating the legal basis for theri right to receive any money and from whom. She should also state that she does not want t receive any telephone calls or personal visits, that since she has made them aware that she has no liability she will consider any attempt outise of written messages or e-,mails as harrassment contrary to the Fair credit reporting and other acts, and that any repeated written contact will also be so considered.

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Answered on 1/14/10, 9:46 pm


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