When someone passes away, the loved ones they leave behind may have to deal with a number of issues. For example, they may work hard to ensure the correct distribution of assets and properly handle all of the other responsibilities that come with being a personal representative. If you have been named personal representative of an estate in Hennepin, or anywhere else in Minnesota, understanding your responsibilities and handling the probate process appropriately is paramount.
The Minnesota Judicial Branch’s website covers a variety of estate-related matters on their website, including the responsibilities of a personal representative. Also known as an administrator or executor, personal representatives are responsible for managing someone’s estate after they have passed away. Personal representatives have many responsibilities, such as collecting, protecting and appraising assets, paying an estate’s debts and taking care of tax-related matters, accurately distributing assets and closing a decedent’s estate. While closure of an estate is often expected within 18 months, personal representatives can ask the court for more time, if necessary.
If you have been named personal representative and are unsure of how to move forward or stressed out about managing your responsibilities, it may be helpful to closely evaluate the ins and outs of the estate and make sure you thoroughly understand your responsibilities. Personal representatives have a crucial role and should do everything they can to ensure that an individual’s estate plan is successfully carried out after their death.
This material was written for informational purposes and should not be considered legal advice.