People generally do not like to think about their own mortality,, but since it is inevitable, it is important to plan while people are able to do so. It is important that people have their property pass on to the people they want to have it after they pass away.
This can be accomplished in a few different ways, but one of the easiest and simplest options is by having a valid will. This document states the deceased’s wishes for their property. It allows them to leave it to children in unequal shares, give property to charities, give property to other important non-family members and other options. If people pass away without a will, the property is divided according to the intestate laws of the state, which do not offer any choices.
While the will states the deceased’s wishes for the distribution of their property, it does not actually distribute the property. That is done by the personal representatives of the Will and they play a very important role during the probate process.
Responsibilities of a personal representative
They are responsible for identifying and gathering all the assets and determining any creditors the deceased owed at the time of death. They need to file all the probate paperwork. They need to find all beneficiaries. They then need to settle the estate by paying creditors and taxes and distributing the assets to the named beneficiaries. Finally, they need to close the probate of the estate.
Everyone will pass away at some point in time in Florida. Having a will is important and it is important that people choose a personal representative they know is capable and willing of doing all the required tasks. This can be a complicated process for personal representatives though and consulting with experienced attorneys could be beneficial.
