Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in Florida
Spouse responsible for deceased spouse med bills?
I have a patient that is being told by another medical provider that she is legally responsible for her deceased husband's medical bill with their facility, although she did not sign as responsible party. My understanding is that the law in Florida was overturned a few years ago, however the research analyst at the law library said that it is not a statute, but rather a case law. Her research showed at least one case in which it was determined that the wife was not legally responsible for the deceased husband's bill, but in at least 4 cases it was upheld that the husband was legally responsible for the deceased wife's bills. Could you clarify this for me?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Spouse/ respons/ for deceased med bills?
It is my understanding that the surviving spouse is not directly responsible for payment of the bills you described. The decedent's estate may have the liability. If the estate does not pay the claim , then the beneficiary may have a laibility for payment. The chances of a creditor following through against the benificary are remote. The odds increase in proportion to the bill.
Alexander M. Rosenfeld
Rosenfeld & Stein, P.A.
18260 NE 19 Ave
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
