GETTING STARTED
Evaluate the proposed role
Begin with the county, court, family circumstances, case status, assets, obligations, and reason an administrator is needed. The initial discussion addresses availability, potential conflicts, and the proposed responsibilities.
THE NEXT RESPONSIBILITY
Address appointment and qualification
Any appointment must proceed through the appropriate court process. Qualification, letters, the scope of authority, and any required bond must be addressed before acting in the administrator’s role.
THE NEXT RESPONSIBILITY
Identify and protect the estate
Gather records, identify property and ownership arrangements, and address preservation needs. An estate house may require immediate practical attention while other assets and obligations are being reviewed.
THE NEXT RESPONSIBILITY
Carry out the administration
Address applicable notices, claims, expenses, inventory and reporting requirements, property decisions, and court approvals. Maintain the records supporting receipts, disbursements, and administration decisions.
THE NEXT RESPONSIBILITY
Work toward completion
Plan for authorized distributions, required accountings, and the procedure for concluding the administration. The particular estate and the court’s orders determine the remaining steps.
START WITH A CONVERSATION
Start with the estate’s current situation.
A general conversation can identify what needs to be reviewed before a potential appointment.