Whether you’re seeking appointment as a personal representative in a probate matter or have already been approved by the court, it’s crucial to understand your responsibilities under state law. A Coral Springs probate law firm can tell you more about your role as personal representative, but you should be prepared to take on a few basic responsibilities.
Inventory Assets: One of the first tasks you’ll need to accomplish as personal representative is listing all of the real and personal property of the decedent. In some cases, the asset will be represented by documentation, such as bank accounts, investment accounts, deeds to real property, and other paperwork. You’ll also collect information on tangible personal property, including household items, furniture, jewelry, automobiles, and similar assets. When you’ve gathered all of these details, you must file an official inventory with the court.
Notify Known Creditors: If there are any outstanding bills owed by the decedent, you must notify the creditor so they can make a claim. You send these entities or people an official document regarding the details of the estate, and pay any claims they are able support with proof. In addition, you’ll publish a Notice to Creditors in a local publication to put any unknown creditors on notice.
Distribute Assets: As the process of estate administration winds down, you will distribute assets to those entitled to them. If there is a will, you follow the directions provided in distributing to beneficiaries. When there is no will, you must adhere to the rules of intestate succession to distribute assets to legal heirs.
There are additional tasks that you’ll need to complete in order to finalize a decedent’s estate and wrap up the probate process, some of which may be quite complicated. If you’ve been appointed or are seeking appointment as personal representative, consult with a qualified Florida probate attorney about the proceedings. Attorney Richard S. Pillinger has assisted many clients in navigating the probate process, so please contact our Coral Springs probate law firm at (954) 755-5199 for more information.