At some point in everyone's life, everyone will be placed in the position of dealing with the death of a loved one. Arranging all the necessary details at such a difficult time can prove overwhelming. However, help is now at hand in this guide that covers all the essential aspects:

Ways to avoid probate and other estate problems while you're still alive through gifts and trusts

Pre-funeral formalities, such as when the loved one dies in another state or country

Selecting a funeral parlor and working with its director and clergy with regard to the funeral service

Disposition of the remains, whether burial or cremation

Probating the will or marshalling the assets if the deceased died intestate

Survivor benefits and other financial and tax matters

Mourning and grief therapy

Drawing from the counsel of funeral directors, clergy, attorneys, estate planners, and psychologists and with references to Web sites and other sources of further information, this book provides straightforward and reassuring advice that is both practical and comforting at this difficult time.