How to Choose a Personal Representative for Your Will

Drafting a will is one of the most loving and responsible things you can do for your family. A will performs many functions. It outlines how you want your property distributed after your death and names a guardian for your minor children. In your will you will also designate a personal representative of your estate. Your personal representative will administer your estate and be responsible for completing many different tasks associated with the administration.

As with all aspects of your will, choosing a personal representative is a very personal decision. Deciding who to select is not always easy, though. Below, our Tampa wills lawyer provides some tips that can help you decide who to choose.

Choose Someone You Trust Implicitly

Personal representatives have many duties. They must inventory all of your assets, value the property, respond to creditor claims, and ultimately, distribute your property according to your wishes. Your personal representative has a fiduciary duty to your estate, meaning they must act in your best interests and according to your wishes. Due to this, you should trust someone you have the utmost trust in.

Choose Someone Practical 

Although practicality should not be the deciding factor when selecting a personal representative, there are certain factors to consider. Your personal representative may have to make many trips to your home or other real estate of the estate, or the possibly the probate court. If they live in another county or state, this may not be practical. Also choose someone who has the necessary time and energy to dedicate to the tasks involved, is in good health, and has any necessary transportation.

Choose Someone with the Necessary Skills

It is not uncommon for people to choose their spouse, adult child, or close friend to serve as their personal representative. While these individuals may seem like a natural choice, it is important to consider whether they possess the necessary skills to act as a personal representative. There are many financial and legal duties involved. While your personal representative does not have to be an expert in these fields, they should have a basic understanding of them or know who to reach out to for assistance.

Choose Someone Who is Willing 

Again, there are many responsibilities associated with serving as a personal representative. There is a lot of time, effort, and potentially, stress involved. It is important to choose someone who is willing to take on the role and the many tasks that come with it. If you are choosing a loved one, also remember that they will be grieving at the time they will have to carry out all of the necessary tasks.

Communicate Your Choice

As with other parts of your estate plan, it is important to communicate with your loved ones who have a right to a portion of your estate and tell them who you selected. This can prevent disputes and legal battles in the future.

Call Our Wills Lawyer in Tampa Today

There are many things to consider when drafting a will, including who to choose as your personal representative. At Messina Law Group, P.A., our Tampa wills lawyer can provide the advice you need to make informed decisions and ensure you and your family are protected. Call us today at (813) 492-7798 or contact us online to request a consultation and to get the legal help you need.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0700-0799/0733/Sections/0733.602.html