Can the register of wills guide me through estate administration or must I seek legal counsel?
Estate administration is conducted more effectively with the assistance of legal counsel. Clerks in the Register’s office who process various estate-related documents are not familiar with assets and obligations of the estate which is being administered. It is the duty and obligation of the personal representative (executor or administrator) to protect estate assets. It may be necessary to review many documents (insurance policies, bills, motor vehicle titles, employee benefit information, business agreements, recent income tax returns, medical or disability insurances, bonds, stocks, and numerous other sources). The Register of Wills and staff are not licensed to give legal advice. Professional executors (attorneys and trust departments) may receive no greater compensation than an individual who serves as a personal representative. They could save time and money in the long run due to their knowledge and experience. What happens to the estate if the decedent died intestate (leaving no
