Naming a Personal Representative ("PR") can be a difficult and somewhat daunting task. A PR is the person, named in your Will, who collects and preserves the estate's assets and then pays the debts, taxes and expenses of the estate. Once the PR accomplishes this task, he or she can distribute the remainder of your estate to your intended beneficiaries.
If you have a moderately sized estate (that is, an estate with no complicated tax issues) and you do not anticipate any disputes within your family, then designating a family member such as a spouse, brother/sister, or responsible child, is a good decision. Keep in mind that the person you designate as PR can decline the position
or may become incompetent. It is especially prudent to speak with the PR you have designated and to also select a successor PR who can step into their place.
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