The Role of the Personal Representative
August 27, 2025 | Posted by: Anchor Bay Law PLLC - New Baltimore Trusted Lawyers
The “personal representative” (sometimes colloquially called an “executor”) is the individual appointed by the probate court to administer the estate. If the decedent had a will, that document typically nominates a personal representative. If there is no will, Michigan law provides a priority list of eligible individuals.
Once appointed by the court, the personal representative receives Letters of Authority, giving them the legal power to act on behalf of the estate. Duties include:
- • Gathering and safeguarding all assets of the estate
- • Notifying and paying valid creditors
- • Filing an inventory and later an accounting with the probate court
- • Filing and paying any required tax returns
- • Distributing remaining assets according to the will or Michigan intestacy laws
- • Closing the estate by filing the appropriate documentation
Anchor Bay Law provides comprehensive legal guidance to personal representatives throughout this process to help ensure compliance.
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