The following are six key duties of a personal representative in the administration of estates:

1. Collection of Assets: The personal representative is responsible for collecting and securing all assets of the deceased, including property, investments, and other belongings.
2. Payment of Debts and Liabilities: The personal representative must ensure that all outstanding debts, taxes, and liabilities owed by the deceased are paid from the estate before distribution to beneficiaries.
3. Distribution of Estate to Beneficiaries: After settling debts, the personal representative distributes the remaining estate according to the will of the deceased or, in the absence of a will, according to the rules of intestacy.
4. Filing of Necessary Legal Documents: The personal representative is required to file the necessary probate or administration documents with the court to obtain legal authority to act on behalf of the estate.
5. Preparation of Accounts: The personal representative must prepare detailed accounts of the administration of the estate, including records of all income, expenses, and distributions.
6. Maintenance and Protection of Estate: The personal representative has a duty to maintain and protect the estate’s assets, ensuring that they are preserved and managed properly until the estate is fully administered.