Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New Mexico

Elderly male dies w/no living relatives

My friend of 18 years died today. He left no will and has no living relatives. I tried to convince him to prepurchase funeral arrangements to no avail. He currently has plently of money in the bank to pay for his arrangements but I am unsure how to legally access these funds. He wanted to be cremated and asked me to make the arrangements. I have his debit card but am afriad it is illegal to use it. I was his medical POA but I don't think that is going to help. I ,also, was his unpaid caretaker for the last four years. He died at the age of 89 and was a WWII vet.


Asked on 4/06/05, 12:24 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Douglas Barr The Barr Law Firm, P.C.

Re: Elderly male dies w/no living relatives

A probate action will have to be filed as soon as possible. If you are his partner or live-in, you may qualify to be named Personal Representative, but you cannot legally act on his behalf without first taking proper legal steps. Call me for more information: 888-4409 [Albq.]

Read more
Answered on 4/06/05, 1:19 pm


Related Questions & Answers

More Probate, Trusts, Wills & Estates questions and answers in New Mexico