One of your duties as an appointed personal representative of an estate is communicating with beneficiaries. You need to keep beneficiaries adequately informed about the estate and the probate process. Poor communication can lead to your removal, as it can be viewed...
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3 Common mistakes trustees make and how to avoid them
Serving as a trustee in Minnesota is both an honor and a serious legal duty. You must manage property and funds, follow the trust’s terms and act in the best interests of the beneficiaries. Mistakes can expose you to personal liability. Still, most issues are...
3 times it may be possible to remove a trustee
A trustee accepts a position that may inspire years of complex obligations. They have a responsibility to manage trust resources and distribute them as outlined in the trust documents. They receive compensation from the trust itself, but they may face regular demands...
Can I resign as executor or trustee if it’s too overwhelming?
You accepted the role of executor or trustee to honor someone you cared about. Now you face endless paperwork, hostile family members or complex legal issues. The stress keeps you up at night and you wonder if you can step away. The short answer is yes, but the...
Who is responsible for a decedent’s debts?
The debts a person accumulates when they’re living don’t just disappear when that person passes away. Instead, the creditors can turn to the person’s estate to recover the money they’re due. This is done by making a claim with the administrator of the estate. One of...
When does a medical power of attorney take effect?
If you want to give someone else the ability to make important decisions on your behalf, you may want to use a power of attorney (POA). For instance, you may be considering your future medical needs. You can use a POA and choose an agent, giving them the correct...
4 questions to ask as an executor
If a testator (someone who drafts a will) wishes to name you as their estate's executor, you should obtain adequate information before accepting the role. It's vital to ask them questions about your expected duties and their estate. Below are four questions to ask: 1....
Should you agree to be a personal representative?
Being asked to serve as a personal representative, also commonly referred to as an executor or estate administrator, for someone’s estate is both an honor and a significant responsibility. This role involves managing and distributing the deceased person’s assets...
Common reasons for estate litigation
People make estate plans to provide their loved ones with the instructions they need to handle the creator’s affairs when they pass away. Most estate plans are executed without any issues, but there are times when estate litigation becomes necessary. There are a few...