All duties must be taken in proper steps to ensure that the estate is taken care of properly.  Any mistakes can slow down the whole estate process.  There also may be mistakes that lead to beneficiary upset.  In some cases the representative can be liable for any mistakes that have been made.

Under the law, the personal representative is legally obligate to distribute the probate estate to Florida law.  The person is responsible for gathering, identifying, valuing and safeguarding all assets.

A notice to creditors must be published in the decedent’s local paper.  This gives people who need to file a claim, to do so in a manner that is in accordance with Florida law.

There must be a notice of administration that will provide information about the probate and administration procedures that must be followed.  These are set in place for those people who have any objection to the decedent’s estate.  They will then have a certain amount of time to file a complaint if they disagree with the terms of the estate.

Any creditors must be notified as of the time that their claim must be filed.  The personal representative must do a reasonable search to find all creditors.  These creditors are deserving of receiving rewards for all debts that were incurred by the decedent.   Florida law helps to not only protect decedents and beneficiaries, but creditors as well.

The personal representative must make sure to object to improper claims.  Suits that are brought on must be defended.  This helps to protect the estate from any wrongdoing.  All valid claims must be paid.  All tax returns must be files and paid.

If need be, the personal representative will find professionals that will assist with administering the estate.  These professionals may be accountants, investment advisors, appraisers, and attorneys.  If a representative needs help with the estate, it is advised that they obtain the proper assistance so that all duties are carried out in the correct manner.

All expense related to administering of the estate must be paid.  All statutory payments must be made to a decedents’ spouse and/or family.  The representative must distribute assets to the beneficiaries and close the estate.

The personal representative has to carry out all duties in the proper manner that is in accordance with Florida law.  If this is not done, the representative will be liable for any harm and suffering that may be experienced by beneficiaries.

This article is not intended for legal advice.

Additional Legal Site: The Law Offices of Adrian Philip Thomas. Serving clients in Fort Lauderdale, Fl.