How do you handle things if there is no will when someone passes away?

The estate will generally go into probate court. Yes, see an attorney at once, and do as they advise. Everyone needs a will, but so many people don't write one since they don't "have much." But as you can see with Kearly, this can still cause huge problems within families. That said, you are working from the other end. So, get legal help. It will be worth it.
Carol

You need to check what the laws are in your state. My brothers stepped right in and changed the locks on the door of our fathers place, and they sold all of his belongings for 1000.00, it was totally insane. Frankly it has placed a wedge in the family. I would also recommend contacting a lawyer before things get out of control at least try for a free consultation. I was my Mom's caregiver for one year before she passed, and 3 months for my Father who passed away as well, my sibilings found every excuse in the book not to help me out with either of our parents. But it was very disturbing how they came to the rescue when our Fathers died. Good luck to you and your sister...

How do you arrange funeral services when there are no relatives? I am his best friend

My father passed away and in Summerville SC requested autopsy on him due to foul play wanted know the reason and time of death. Contact the funeral home letting them of my request and having the corner to pick up the body, come to find out one hour later after speaking to the person the wife had his body emblam to get ride of body. How to prove if there was foul play and evidence been removed from the body, but her action is in question as to how wife is handling things. Please help me.

People who die at home become a coroner's case, but if it appears to the coroner that they died of natural causes there is no autopsy. Or, if a doctor has seen them recently and is aware of a fatal condition, that doctor can sign the death certificate without an autopsy.