Duties of the Personal Representative

The personal representative:

• Proves the will in probate court
• Collects and inventories property
• Pays bills and collects debts
• Files tax returns
• Manages probate property
• Defends or brings lawsuits, if needed
• Distributes property

Selection Criteria for the Personal Representative

Choose your personal representative carefully. The person you select must be:

• Able to do the job
• Willing
• Able to keep peace among family members
• Able to meet legal requirements
• Conveniently located nearby, if possible

Lesson Contents

I. Introduction

II. Estate Planning

III. Power of Attorney: Planning for Incapacity

IV. Property Transfer: Documents and Legal Arrangements

V. A Will: Who Needs One?

VI. The Probate Process

VII. Personal Representative: To Carry Out Your Wishes

a. Duties of and Selection Criteria for the Personal Representative

VIII. Gifting and Tax Strategies

IX. A Trust: Who Needs One?

X. How to Hire and Work with an Attorney

XI. Learn More

---

Glossary

Case Studies and Resources

Print this Lesson

Disclaimer

Acknowledgments

Prepare Your Estate Plan belongs to a series called Legally Secure Your Financial Future. The series also includes information to help you organize important household papers and to communicate your health-care wishes.

Browse related Articles by tag: personal finance, financial security: legal topics