Wills, Probate

Trusts, Estate Planning

140 South Beach Street, Suite 310
Daytona Beach, FL 32114
(386) 257-3332

Personal Representative

Heidi Webb is a very professional and caring attorney. She is focused on attention to detail. She also is very articulate. Every situation that has come up in my case she has taken care of as swift as possible. My case has had some difficult turns which she has dealt with to her sensational ability. Heidi Webb has an outstanding personality and puts you at ease immediately. I highly recommend her. It is nice to know that out of so my attorneys their is one that is exceptional.

~ Rita S.

Heidi handled the creation of our estate plan which includes a trust. In the consultation she explained all of our options and the cost involved with them. After a couple of more meetings with her we now have a completed estate plan we are very happy and comfortable with. Heidi and her team were easy to contact with questions along the way. We would highly recommend her for any estate planning needs.

~ Lisa C

Ask Heidi: What is the role of the Personal Representative in Florida?

Personal Representative

For starters, some of you may find it helpful to know that a Personal Representative in Florida is the same thing as an Executor in many other states —Florida Law just chose the term Personal Representative.  A lot of times when I say that folks are like “ohhhhhhhh” and the a-ha moment occurs but if you’ve never dealt with either term this blog will hopefully clear up the basics.

A Personal Representative is responsible for gathering the assets of the Estate, protecting the estate property, preparing an inventory of the property, paying various estate expenses, paying valid claims [including debts and taxes] against the Estate, representing the Estate in claims against others, and eventually distributing the estate property to the beneficiaries. In the event the decedent passed away with a Will, the Will may often impose additional duties on the Personal Representative that are not required by law.   In all cases, the first thing the Personal Representation should do is contact an attorney to see what needs to be done [as well as what may not need to be done].

Here is a quick list of the responsibilities the Personal Representative will need to handle with the assistance of an attorney representing the estate:

  • Opening the Estate
  • Identify Assets of the Estate
  • Opening of the Estate Account
  • Provide Notice to Creditors
  • Preparation of an Estate Inventory and record-keeping during the administration
  • Filing of Tax Returns
  • Distribution of Assets and Closing the Estate

When choosing the Personal Representative for your Estate, it is critical to fully explain what comes with this responsibility to make sure they are up for the task. It is recommended to discuss your Estate Plan with an Estate Planning attorney in the State in which you reside to ensure your plan is draft correctly.  If you live in the Daytona Beach or Melbourne, Florida area, call my office for a free consultation.

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