Funeral & Estates
My loved one has been murdered. How do I close the estate?

These are examples of property and/or information that may need your attention:
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Apartment/Lease
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Car
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Cell phone
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Banking
More information can be found at this link: NC COURTS
In order to resolve these issues you’ll need a death certificate as proof that the person you’re acting on behalf of is deceased.
I suddenly have to plan a funeral. What do I need to know about cost?

Understand the average cost of a funeral and the average cost per item incurred.
If the crime occurred in North Carolina, NC Crime Victims Compensation will cover up to $5,000 for approved application. NC can make arrangements to pay the funeral home directly.
To protect you, the Federal Government requires funeral homes to provide a price quote of all items you have chosen.
Who files the death certificate and how long does it take to get one?

People who may file the Death Certificate:
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Funeral Director/Funeral Home
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Hospital
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Medical Examiner’s Office
Time it takes to get a death certificate:
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Depends on circumstances of death.
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If waiting on cause of death, a temporary certificate will be issued.
How do I obtain a death certificate?

If you need a copy of the Death Certificate you will need to find your register of deeds office here. You can go in-person or check online on their website. Find the tab that says “Vital Records.”
Expect a nominal fee: Certified Copy($10)
Uncertified Copy ($0.25-$1.00) varies by county
A minimal “convenience fee” for online requests and fees for “expediting” (typically $15 or more) may be added.
Expect to produce ID – see list of acceptable ID’s here.
Please contact NCVAN’s main number for assistance 919-831-2857.
Who can obtain a death certificate?

As authorized by NCGS 130A-93(c), copies may only be issued to the following:
Spouse, sibling, direct ancestor (child or grandchild) or descendant (parents or grandparents) or stepparent or stepchild;
A person seeking information for a legal determination of personal or property rights; or
An authorized agent, attorney or legal representative of a person described above.