Debts & Medical bills after a death has ocurred.

My girlfriend's brother just died in a car accident. She is left to the task of informing everybody of this death. My question is that he had some credit card debt, as well as some unpaid medical bills...Is she responsible to call each and every credit card and doctor's office and let them know of the situation, or will they eventually find out through the state? Also, If she forgets one or two, will she be held responsible, and some legal action can be taken against her?? She would rather not involve a lawyer to handle the estate, because there is really not much available except for a small amount of cash in a checking account. He did not own a car(was leasing), was renting an apartment with his mom, is not married, has no kids, and was an adult 29 yrs. of age. The place of resisdence is in NJ. Any info. would be greatly appreciated! Thank You! Rob.

Sorry about the death. It is horrible to have a 29 year old die.

If he had no assets the credit card companies can't hold her liable, but she should send them copies of the newspaper story to shut them up. Also, if anyone takes his assets, they could possibly be responsible up to the value of the assts they take.

More important, she should see a lawyer to find out if, just possibly, there may be someone partially or fully at fault for the accident, and thus liable for a major wrongful death case. For example, perhaps the car was defective, or didn't have working air bags, or another driver was involved, or a bartender sold him drinks after he was intoxicated, etc. Check out an auto accident lawyer on AttorneyPages.com in NJ. There are lots of VERY VERY good ones listed.

Are newspaper articles stating his death, sufficient enough, or should she send copies of the death certificate??

Are newspaper articles stating his death, sufficient enough, or should she send copies of the death certificate??