When my Dad finally passed, we didn't make the best decisions over all those details we had to address, and we could have done a better job preparing.
I found a great book, "Widow's Key" by Linda Lindholm, JD, that REALLY helped us. (She has an internet site of free help and advice, too, WidowsKey.com) I'd recommend it; I've just sent the book along with flowers to a friend who lost her husband, because I wanted to do something more than just send flowers.
But the best time to have this book is to PLAN before inevitable death occurs. I've atarted applying the advice in advance, for my Mom, but also for ME and my spouse.
It's not only legal advice, but personal, everything about the details, death certificates, trusts, preparation, grieving, even how to sensitively plan memorial services, at a time when decision-making is very hard. It's the only book I found that addressed everything in one place. And led me through it step wise, simply. Hope this helps someone else who has to go through this.