Legal Question in Credit and Debt Law in New York

Debts after death

My father has passed away recently and my mom is getting medical bills from different places. We have also terminated a lease for my father's car and the leasing company is sending us a $5,000 bill. If there is no will, nor an Estate and the property that my parents own were ''as husband and wife'' and have joint accounts, is my mom responsible to pay these bills. What is the worst that can happen if she doesn't pay them?


Asked on 4/28/08, 6:25 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Guy Lewit Guy Mitchell Lewit, Esq.

Re: Debts after death

nothing. The funds in the joint accounts are entirely owned by the surviving spouse. the creditors have a claim against the estate not your mom. if there is no assets in the estate there is nothing they can do. Return the leased vehicle.

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Answered on 4/28/08, 6:31 pm


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