Can the Register of Wills guide me through estate administration, or must I seek legal counsel?
There are two concerns that every personal representative shares. One is that the estate is administered properly according to law, and the second is that the amount of taxes paid is minimized and the amount of assets passing to beneficiaries is maximized.


The Register of Wills is only a record keeping office, and the clerks are not trained or licensed to give legal advice. Estate administration is typically conducted more effectively and efficiently with the assistance of legal counsel. Estate administration is an orderly process that is designed to insure that the will of the decedent is carried out and the interest of all parties to the process are protected.


It is the duty and obligation of the personal representative (executor or administrator) to protect
estate assets and pay all proper taxes and claims. A personal representative is personally
responsible for improper distributions. It is often necessary to review and interpret many documents and legal contracts, such as insurance policies, employee benefit information, income tax returns, stocks, bonds, and business agreements.

Show All Answers

1. Must all wills be probated? Can money distribution be made to heirs without probate?
2. If someone dies, where will I find the will?
3. What happens if I can’t find the will?
4. What if I know there is no will?
5. What must be legally done with the will?
6. I have been named executor, but I do not want to serve. Can I get out of it?
7. What must I do if I am named executor?
8. Can the Register of Wills guide me through estate administration, or must I seek legal counsel?
9. What is a short certificate?
10. How do I know how much I have to pay in taxes? When do I have to pay them?