What is a personal representative?

A personal representative is a person appointed by the court in California to handle an estate after someone passes away. This may be someone appointed by the deceased in their will or chosen by the court if the deceased did not make an arrangement beforehand. Their role is to distribute the estate according to the wishes of the deceased and in accordance with California probate law. The personal representative will usually be responsible for collecting the assets of the deceased, paying their debts and taxes, and making arrangements with creditors. They must also distribute the estate to the beneficiaries named in the will, or to the heirs as determined by the law. In addition, they must keep accurate records of all transactions related to the estate and provide regular reports to the court regarding the estate’s progress. It is recommended that the personal representative involves the assistance of a lawyer when dealing with probate matters. This is because the complex laws and complex paperwork associated with probate can be difficult for anyone without experience in this area. The lawyer can provide guidance and expertise, as well as helping with the creation of any necessary documents.

Related FAQs

Who is entitled to the contents of a safe deposit box?
What happens when someone dies without a will?
When is an estate considered closed?
Are there any special rules for estate taxes?
What is a small estate affidavit?
How is an estate distributed?
Can an executor be removed?
Are there any restrictions on what an executor can do?
What is a probate estate?
What documents must be filed to open probate?

Related Blog Posts

What You Should Know About Probate Law - July 31, 2023
Probate Law: A Comprehensive Guide - August 7, 2023
Common Issues in Probate Litigation - August 14, 2023
The Benefits of Hiring a Probate Lawyer - August 21, 2023
What is Intestate Succession? - August 28, 2023