How To Choose A Personal Representative For Your Will

When it is time to plan your estate, choosing the right executor for your Will is a decision that requires careful consideration. In Florida, the executor is referred to as the personal representative and this person plays a pivotal role in handling the administration of your estate and carrying out your wishes. When choosing your personal representative, the stakes are very high and so, it is important that you choose someone with specific characteristics. Our St. Petersburg wills lawyer explains what these are below.

Choose Someone Who is Reliable 

It is critical that your personal representative is reliable, trustworthy, responsible, and organized. Your personal representative will have to pay your debts, manage your estate, and distribute it according to your wishes. This will require someone with a strong sense of responsibility and the ability to remain organized in the face of complicated tasks and situations.

Understanding the Role 

Your personal representative should have a very clear understanding of the tasks they will be responsible for. This includes communicating with beneficiaries, handling paperwork, and overseeing the probate process. Although it is not necessary that your personal representative has legal expertise, they should possess a certain level of attention to detail and a basic understanding of financial matters. It is critical that you choose someone who understands these responsibilities and is willing to fulfill them.

Jurisdiction and Availability 

It is also important to consider the availability and location of your personal representative. Estate laws can vary from state to state so, it is usually advised that you choose someone who is in the same jurisdiction as you. Also, your personal representative should be able to quickly carry out the necessary tasks involved. If your personal representative lives far away or has a very busy schedule, it can lead to potential delays in the execution of your will.

Conflict Resolution Skills 

During your family’s time of grief, emotions may run high and so, it is important that your personal representative has strong conflict resolution skills. To ensure a smooth probate process, it is important to choose a personal representative who can resolve disagreements and disputes among beneficiaries and maintain family harmony.

Health and Age Considerations

 Although it may seem obvious, choosing a personal representative who will probably outlive you is an important consideration. Choosing someone who is younger than you, or of a similar age, increases the odds that your designated personal representative is available when it is time to execute your will. You should also consider the overall health of your potential personal representative to avoid possible complications that could arise if their health deteriorates. The role of personal representative is time consuming and stressful, so it is important to choose someone who will be physically capable of handling the responsibilities.

Our Wills Lawyer in St. Petersburg Can Advise On All Aspects of Your Case 

Estate planning is rarely easy. There are many complex issues that can arise and when they do, you need the sound advice of a St. Petersburg wills lawyer. At Legacy Protection Lawyers, LLP, our experienced attorneys have the expertise to provide it so you can create a plan that is comprehensive and that will ensure your final wishes are fulfilled. Call us now at 727-471-5868 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get more information.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0732/0732.html