Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Jersey

Please help. And thank you so much for your time. My husband passed away in 2004! I�ve been going through a lot since then. He left me with nothing, not even an insurance life. He was a musician, very secretive... US citizen, but I also believe he had residency in Calgary. He passed away in Japan. All I have in my possession is my marriage certificate (got married in Las Vegas), his death certificate that the US consulate sent me in 2004, and his diary (few numbers that I did call. End up with no more information about him.) and a last statement of an investment account (in Calgary), less than two thousand dollars. I do believe he had a bank account or a safety deposit box in Calgary or Vancouver. When I called the banks (I need to locate the account or safety box. And I need to know the amount of it. Is there a way to open a search for it?) and the investment company, they have no consideration for me! Saying that I am the surviving spouse means nothing to them! Please advice me what to do (I can not afford too many expenses). I am recently resident of New Jersey, US. Thank you so much for your time and consideration.

Asked on 5/06/12, 8:23 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Miriam Jacobson Retired from practice of law

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His estate should have been probated in the county where he resided [not necessarily where he was] at the time of his death.

You will need an estate lawyer in that jurisdiction to help you find out the status of his estate, his assets and debts, and what your options are.

THIS RESPONSE IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE, SINCE I DO NOT HAVE ALL OF THE INFORMATION THAT WOULD BE REQUIRED, AND I DO NOT HAVE A REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT WITH YOU.

* If the answers to your question confirm that you have a valid issue or worthwhile claim, your next step should almost always be to establish a dialog with a lawyer who can provide specific advice to you. Contact a lawyer in your county or township.

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Answered on 5/06/12, 8:31 am

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