Choosing a personal administrator—also known as an executor—is one of the most important decisions you can make when estate planning. This individual is responsible for managing your estate after you pass away, ensuring that debts are settled, assets are distributed according to your wishes, and legal requirements related to your estate are met.
While many people assume the court will simply appoint a responsible party, naming your own personal administrator provides significant benefits and can help to prevent unnecessary complications for your loved ones. And, at the end of the day, do you really want the state making such an important decision on your behalf?
Your wishes matter
When you name your own personal administrator, you retain control over who will handle your estate. This allows you to have the peace of mind that someone you trust and respect will oversee the process, rather than leaving the decision to the courts. Without a named executor, a judge may appoint someone who does not fully understand your intentions or who may not be the best fit for the role.
To that end, administering an estate requires organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to handle financial matters responsibly. By naming your own personal administrator, you can select someone who has the experience and temperament to manage complex tasks, such as paying off debts, filing tax returns, and distributing assets. The personal administrator should have good communication skills to be able to work with an experienced estate and probate attorney to administer the estate professionally and promptly. This can help avoid delays and errors that could arise if an unqualified person is appointed to this role without your consent.
Taking the time to name a personal administrator can help you to better ensure that your estate is handled the way that you intend. Should you have any questions about how to go about making this decision, know that seeking legal guidance is always an option. Contact our experienced estate and probate attorneys today for a consultation, so you too can enjoy peace of mind.