Why Should A Personal Representative Have Legal Counsel?

Being appointed as a personal representative, also known as an executor, of a loved one’s estate can be overwhelming. Not only are you grieving and managing the loss of a loved one, but you are also tasked with the legal responsibilities of administering their estate.

In these situations, it is essential for personal representatives to seek legal guidance from experienced attorneys. If you were appointed to serve as a personal representative of someone’s estate, you might want to contact Mark R. Manceri, P.A., for legal assistance.

Our Pompano Beach estate litigation lawyer can guide you through administering the decedent’s estate. We can assist you with protecting your loved one’s estate in a manner consistent with their wishes.

5 Reasons Why a Personal Representative Should Have Legal Counsel

If you were appointed as a personal representative, you are required to have counsel to provide the knowledge and expertise needed to ensure that the estate is administered efficiently and accurately, all deadlines are met, assets are managed correctly, and disputes are resolved promptly. Below are the five reasons why a personal representative should have legal counsel:

1. Legal Expertise

Most individuals appointed as personal representatives do not have legal training or experience with probate and estate matters. By working with a lawyer, personal representatives can leverage their experience and knowledge to ensure that every step of the estate administration process is carried out efficiently and accurately.

2. Compliance

Complying with state and federal regulations can be a daunting experience for a personal representative. Legal counsel can ensure that all required notices and filings are completed within deadlines, and all assets are accounted for, which minimizes the risk of legal complications and personal liability.

Fact: Under Florida law, a personal representative is a fiduciary who must act impartially and in the best interests of the decedent’s estate (Florida Statutes § 733.602).

3. Asset Protection

Personal representatives are responsible for identifying, managing, and distributing the assets of the estate. However, if the process is not handled correctly, it can result in a loss of assets, diminishing the value of the estate. With the help of a knowledgeable lawyer, personal representatives can ensure that all assets are protected and correctly valued, minimizing the risk of financial loss.

4. Dispute and Conflict Resolution

During the estate administration process, disputes and conflicts between beneficiaries can arise. In these situations, legal counsel can mediate and resolve conflicts with their expertise, preventing the disputes from escalating, and protecting the interests of the estate and beneficiaries.

5. Peace of Mind

Being appointed as a personal representative can be an overwhelming experience, with a considerable amount of responsibility resting on one person’s shoulders. Engaging a legal team from the outset of the process can provide peace of mind for personal representatives, allowing them to focus on grieving and effectively administering the estate.

Legal Counsel at Mark R. Manceri, P.A.

Administering an estate as a personal representative can be a challenging undertaking, and it is vital to work with a skilled and knowledgeable lawyer. Seeking legal guidance from a lawyer can provide personal representatives with peace of mind, allowing them to focus on what matters most – grieving, healing, and keeping the memory of their loved one alive. Reach out to a lawyer at Mark R. Manceri, P.A., to get the legal assistance you need. Call 954-491-7099 today.

Source:

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