What is a Personal Representative?

A personal representative is the person designated in the Last Will and Testament — or ordered by the court in an intestate situation — who handles all aspects of the probate with the assistance of a probate attorney. In order to serve as a personal representative in Florida, you must meet the following criteria:

• Must be 18 years or older
• Must not have been convicted of a felony
• Must be of sound mind and competent to serve as a personal representative
• Must be a resident of Florida or related to the deceased

If the proposed personal representative does not meet these criteria, he or she cannot serve as the personal representative and another person who does qualify for this position must petition the court to be name personal representative.

More Information About Florida Probate Law

• Where Does the Probate Get Filed?
• What Documents are Needed to Open a Probate Estate?