Probate administration can be a complex, time-sensitive process after a loved one passes. At Peach State Probate, our firm assists families in Kennesaw and throughout Georgia with the practical and legal steps needed to settle estates, protect assets, and meet court requirements. We work directly with personal representatives, beneficiaries, and other interested parties to organize documents, file required petitions, and follow Georgia probate procedures. If you have questions about next steps, timelines, or your responsibilities, contact our office to discuss how we can help you move forward efficiently and with clarity.
Whether an estate is straightforward or involves contested issues, proper administration reduces the risk of costly delays and disputes. Our approach combines careful case management with clear communication so clients understand deadlines, paperwork, and creditor notice requirements. We prioritize timely filings, accurate inventories, and thorough accounting so assets are preserved and distributed according to law and the decedent’s wishes. If litigation or fiduciary disputes arise, we coordinate necessary responses and explore alternatives like mediation when appropriate.
Proper probate administration protects estate assets, honors the decedent’s intentions, and provides a lawful path to distribute property to beneficiaries. Handling filings, creditor notices, tax obligations, and court accounting correctly minimizes the chance of later challenges and personal liability for the personal representative. Effective administration also speeds up distributions where possible, reduces administrative costs, and clarifies beneficiaries’ rights. Choosing careful representation helps families avoid common procedural mistakes and ensures the estate closes in compliance with Georgia law.
Peach State Probate is a probate law firm based in Sandy Springs serving clients across Georgia, including Kennesaw and Cobb County. Our lawyers focus on probate administration, trust and will contests, fiduciary litigation, and related estate matters so clients receive practical, process-driven guidance. We assist personal representatives with filing petitions, preparing inventories, managing creditor claims, and closing estates while maintaining open communication through each stage. Clients reach us by phone at 470-619-2424 to schedule a consultation and learn what to expect from the probate process.
Probate administration is the court-supervised process of validating a will, appointing a personal representative, identifying and securing assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining property to beneficiaries. The scope of administration depends on the size and complexity of the estate, whether a valid will exists, and whether any disputes or creditor claims are present. Georgia law imposes specific steps and timelines that must be followed to close an estate properly, and missing a requirement can prolong the process or increase liability. Working with counsel helps personal representatives meet filing deadlines, properly notify creditors, and complete necessary accounting for the court.
Some estates qualify for simplified probate procedures while others require full administration, hearings, and formal accounting, especially when assets include real property, businesses, or disputed assets. Probate administration also intersects with other issues such as trust administration, guardianships, and potential challenges to the will. Timelines vary—simple matters may be resolved in a matter of months while contested or complex estates can take longer depending on court schedules and litigation. A clear plan at the outset helps manage expectations and identify when additional legal steps or protective measures are advisable.
Probate administration refers to the legal process that takes place after someone dies to settle their estate under probate court supervision. It typically begins with filing a petition to open probate or appoint a personal representative and continues through asset identification, creditor notice and resolution, tax filings, and final distribution of assets. The court monitors certain actions to ensure the personal representative fulfills fiduciary duties and that beneficiaries receive what they are entitled to under the will or state law. Understanding these steps and the required paperwork reduces the chance of delays or disputes and helps protect estate value.
Key elements of probate administration include filing the initial petition, inventorying estate assets, providing public and private notice to creditors and interested parties, resolving outstanding debts, and filing necessary tax returns. The personal representative must also manage ongoing estate property, preserve value, and, when appropriate, sell assets under court authorization to pay liabilities. Accurate recordkeeping and timely accounting to the court and beneficiaries are essential to close the estate properly and avoid disputes. When contested issues arise, such as challenges to a will or disputes over fiduciary duties, the process will expand to include additional filings and court hearings.
Below are common terms you will encounter during probate administration with brief explanations to help you navigate the process.
The executor, also called the personal representative in Georgia, is the person appointed to administer the decedent’s estate under court supervision. That role includes locating and securing assets, notifying creditors and beneficiaries, paying valid debts and taxes, and distributing remaining property according to the will or state law. The personal representative owes fiduciary duties to the estate and beneficiaries, meaning they must act honestly, prudently, and in the estate’s best interests. Failure to follow statutory duties or court orders can result in removal, liability for losses, or other court sanctions.
Intestate means a person died without a valid will, so their assets are distributed according to Georgia’s intestacy statutes rather than a named plan. When intestacy applies, the court appoints an administrator to manage the estate and determine heirs based on family relationships defined in state law. Intestate estates often require careful genealogical documentation and can lead to disputes among potential heirs if relationships or claims are unclear. Proper administration under intestate succession still requires creditor notices, inventories, and court accounting to close the estate lawfully.
An administrator is a court-appointed fiduciary who manages an intestate estate or steps in where an executor is unavailable or disqualified. The administrator’s duties mirror those of an executor: gather assets, notify creditors, settle valid obligations, and distribute assets under the law. Courts typically require an administrator to post a bond unless waived, and the administrator must keep detailed records subject to court review. Beneficiaries can seek removal or surcharge if the administrator mismanages estate assets or breaches fiduciary duties.
Creditors’ claims are formal requests for payment of debts owed by the decedent that must be presented to the estate within specified timeframes under Georgia law. The personal representative is responsible for notifying known creditors, publishing statutory notices when required, and evaluating claims to determine validity. Valid claims are paid from estate assets in a priority order set by law, and disputed claims may require litigation to resolve. Prompt, consistent handling of creditor claims protects the estate and the personal representative from later challenges or personal liability.
When facing probate administration, you can choose limited assistance, full representation, or attempt to handle matters yourself, and each approach has trade-offs. Limited help may suffice for small, uncontested estates with cooperative beneficiaries, but it carries risk if unexpected issues arise or statutory steps are missed. Full representation provides comprehensive handling of filings, notices, asset management, and dispute resolution, which can be essential for complex estates or where litigation is possible. Alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation, can also be an effective option to resolve conflicts without prolonged court battles when parties are willing to negotiate.
A limited approach can be appropriate when the estate is small, assets are easy to locate, and beneficiaries agree on distribution under a valid will. If there are no real property transfers, no business interests, and creditor issues are minimal, a personal representative may complete much of the routine administration with occasional legal advice. Limited counsel can assist with preparing required filings or reviewing an inventory to ensure compliance while keeping costs lower than full-service representation. However, an initial attorney review is still beneficial to confirm that simplified procedures apply and to identify any hidden complications.
When a decedent left a clearly written will and beneficiaries are cooperative, fewer legal disputes are likely and administration can be more straightforward. In these situations, limited legal support for document preparation, creditor notice templates, and filing guidance may be enough to complete the estate. The personal representative should still follow statutory timelines and maintain proper records to protect against future claims or misunderstandings. If tensions develop or assets are discovered that complicate distribution, consider upgrading to more comprehensive representation.
Comprehensive legal service is important where beneficiaries challenge the will, allege undue influence, or where fiduciary duties are disputed, because court proceedings and discovery can be required. An attorney providing full representation will prepare pleadings, manage deadlines, take depositions if necessary, and advocate for the estate or the personal representative in hearings. Robust legal support helps preserve estate assets, present evidence effectively, and negotiate resolutions that limit prolonged litigation. In contested matters, counsel also evaluates settlement options and whether alternative dispute resolution might produce a faster, less costly outcome.
Estates with real estate, closely held business interests, multiple jurisdictions, or significant tax issues require careful legal and financial handling to value and transfer assets correctly. Comprehensive representation coordinates with appraisers, accountants, and other professionals to create accurate inventories, address tax liabilities, and structure transfers to minimize unnecessary expense. Fiduciary matters such as trust administration, breaches of duty, or contested accountings often require formal court filings and strategic legal responses. Having a dedicated probate attorney helps ensure that each technical and procedural requirement is met and that the estate closes efficiently.
A comprehensive approach reduces the risk of procedural errors, missed deadlines, and insufficient notice that can lead to challenges or liability for the personal representative. It ensures accurate inventory and valuation of estate assets, proper handling of creditor claims, and timely tax filings, all of which protect estate value and beneficiaries’ interests. Full-service representation also provides continuity if disputes arise, because counsel is already familiar with the file and positioned to respond immediately. This proactive management can shorten the administration timeline and produce more predictable outcomes for families.
Comprehensive representation supports consistent documentation and transparent accounting that beneficiaries can review, which often reduces misunderstandings and fosters cooperation. When litigation or contested matters occur, having counsel who has overseen the estate from the beginning improves case presentation and decision-making about settlement versus trial. It also allows the personal representative to focus on nonlegal responsibilities while legal professionals handle filings, court appearances, and negotiation. Ultimately, the approach aims to preserve estate assets, limit personal exposure for fiduciaries, and complete administration in line with legal requirements.
Comprehensive administration reduces the likelihood of disputes by ensuring proper notice, clear accounting, and consistent documentation at every step. When beneficiaries see thorough records and transparent communication, they are less likely to question distributions or fiduciary decisions. If disputes do arise, having well-prepared filings and a documented timeline strengthens the estate’s position in court or in settlement talks. Preventive legal work can therefore save time and expense compared with addressing challenges reactively after mistakes are discovered.
A full-service approach coordinates valuation, tax filings, and necessary court approvals to move assets toward beneficiaries as efficiently as possible. Counsel arranges for appraisals, coordinates the sale or transfer of property if required, and ensures creditor claims are resolved in the correct order to allow final distribution. Efficient administration reduces the time assets remain in limbo and helps beneficiaries receive their inheritances sooner. Proper planning and execution also minimize administrative costs that can erode estate value when matters are handled piecemeal or incorrectly.
Gathering wills, deeds, account statements, beneficiary designations, and insurance policies as soon as possible speeds probate administration and reduces delays. Early organization helps identify assets that may pass outside probate and highlights items requiring court action. It also makes it easier to locate potential creditors and provide accurate inventories to the court. Keeping a clear file benefits both the personal representative and beneficiaries by providing transparency throughout the process.
Mediation or settlement discussions can resolve many probate disagreements more quickly and at lower cost than formal litigation. A facilitated negotiation allows parties to discuss concerns and reach a mutually acceptable outcome without a prolonged court battle. Where relationships are worth preserving or estate resources are limited, alternative dispute resolution often produces better practical results for beneficiaries. Your attorney can help determine whether mediation is appropriate and can represent you during those discussions to protect your interests.
You should consider professional probate administration services when the estate includes real estate, business interests, complex investments, tax concerns, or when beneficiaries disagree about distribution. A knowledgeable probate team ensures all legal notices are served correctly, debts and taxes are addressed in the right order, and assets are transferred with proper documentation. Many personal representatives appreciate having counsel to guide them through statutory deadlines and required court filings. Legal support also reduces personal exposure by ensuring fiduciary duties are followed.
Even seemingly simple estates can conceal complications such as undisclosed debts, unclear beneficiary designations, or assets held in multiple states, which can create significant administrative burdens. Probate counsel helps uncover and resolve hidden issues, coordinates with forensic accountants or appraisers when needed, and manages communication among interested parties. If the estate is contested or allegations of fraud or undue influence surface, prompt legal involvement is critical to protecting the estate and preserving evidence. In short, professional service adds predictability and protection throughout the process.
Probate administration is required when a deceased person owned assets titled in their name that must be transferred through the court process, when a will must be admitted to probate, or when heirs must be officially determined under state law. Other common circumstances include disputes over the will, creditor claims against the estate, the need to sell estate property to pay debts, or situations involving guardianships and conservatorships. Estates that include business interests, retirement accounts without clear beneficiaries, or significant tax issues typically demand professional administration. Addressing these matters properly ensures legal compliance and reduces the risk of later challenges.
When a decedent leaves a will, probate administration begins with filing the will and a petition in the appropriate Georgia probate court to admit the will and appoint a personal representative. The court oversees appointment, requires an inventory of assets, and monitors distributions to ensure they conform to the will and state law. The process includes notifying creditors, resolving claims, and filing tax returns on behalf of the estate. Proper probate of a will provides a clear legal path to transfer titled property and resolve disputes under court supervision.
If someone dies without a will, the estate must still be administered under Georgia’s intestacy rules to identify heirs and distribute assets lawfully. The court will appoint an administrator who performs many of the same duties as an executor, including inventory, creditor notice, and final distribution. Intestate cases can require additional documentation to establish family relationships and heirs, which can extend the timeline. Legal guidance helps ensure that distributions follow statutory priorities and that the administrator complies with all probate requirements.
Disputes among beneficiaries over the validity of a will, interpretation of clauses, or allocation of assets often require formal court proceedings to resolve competing claims. Such disputes may involve allegations of undue influence, lack of capacity, or fraud, and they typically lead to motions, discovery, and hearings in probate court. Early legal involvement can identify settlement opportunities, preserve evidence, and advise fiduciaries on minimizing exposure. When litigation is unavoidable, representation helps present the case and protect your rights through the court process.
We’re here to guide you through probate administration in Kennesaw and Cobb County. Call 470-619-2424 to schedule a consultation and discuss your case.
Clients choose Peach State Probate for thorough process management, clear communication, and careful attention to Georgia probate rules that impact timelines and duties. We prioritize organized case files, timely filings, and transparent accounting so personal representatives and beneficiaries understand each step. Our firm works to identify potential issues early, coordinate necessary professionals, and keep estate administration moving efficiently. We focus on practical solutions that preserve estate value and reduce stress for families during a difficult time.
When disputes or contested matters arise, we develop a strategic response tailored to the circumstances, including negotiation, mediation, or court representation as needed. Our team explains legal options and likely outcomes so clients can make informed decisions about settlement versus litigation. We also assist with related matters such as trust administration, guardianship petitions, and fiduciary litigation when those issues intersect with probate administration. Throughout, we emphasize documentation and compliance to protect the estate and the people responsible for administering it.
Practical guidance, responsive communication, and a commitment to follow-through are the hallmarks of our service approach, and we aim to remove uncertainty by informing clients at each major milestone. We offer an initial consultation to outline steps, estimate timelines, and identify potential complexities that could affect cost or duration. Our goal is to provide predictable, process-driven legal help so families can focus on other priorities while we manage the probate details. For immediate assistance, call our office at 470-619-2424.
Our probate process begins with a thorough intake to identify assets, beneficiaries, and any immediate deadlines or creditor issues that require attention. We prepare and file the necessary petitions with the probate court, provide required notices, and create an inventory and schedule of assets for court review. Throughout administration, we keep clients informed about required actions, potential claims, and timelines for distributions, and we coordinate with accountants or appraisers as needed. If disputes occur, we develop a strategy that may include negotiation, mediation, or litigation to protect the estate and the fiduciary.
The first step is filing a petition to open probate or appoint a personal representative and having the court admit the will where applicable. This stage includes gathering necessary documents such as the death certificate, will, deeds, and account statements, and preparing statutory notices. The court issues letters testamentary or letters of administration that authorize the personal representative to act on behalf of the estate. Early and accurate filings set the stage for a smoother administration and help avoid procedural delays.
We review the decedent’s estate planning documents, identify titled assets and beneficiary designations, and prepare the required probate petitions and filings for the court. Careful review helps uncover potential conflicts, missing documents, or assets that may require special handling. Preparing petitions correctly reduces the chance of objections or procedural errors that could slow the case. We also advise the personal representative about their duties and immediate steps to secure estate property.
After filing, the personal representative must notify beneficiaries, heirs, and creditors as required by Georgia law, including published notice when necessary. Proper notice gives creditors an opportunity to present claims and informs beneficiaries about the probate proceedings and potential distributions. We prepare notice documents, manage service where required, and maintain proof of notice for court records. Timely and correct notice is a foundational requirement to avoid later challenges to the administration.
During this stage, the personal representative compiles a complete inventory of estate assets, obtains valuations or appraisals where necessary, and identifies liabilities and creditor claims for resolution. Accurate inventories and valuations are essential for tax filings, proper distribution, and accounting to the court and beneficiaries. The representative must evaluate creditor claims, pay valid debts in the correct priority, and dispute improper claims when appropriate. Careful handling of this phase preserves asset value and protects against later surcharge claims.
We coordinate appraisals and gather documentation for bank accounts, investment holdings, real property, and personal property to prepare a comprehensive estate inventory. Correct valuation matters for tax obligations, creditor payments, and fair distribution among beneficiaries. Where business interests or specialized assets are present, we work with qualified appraisers or financial professionals to establish market value. The inventory is then submitted to the court and used to guide administration decisions.
The personal representative must identify and resolve creditor claims according to Georgia deadlines and priorities, paying valid claims from estate assets. We evaluate each claim, negotiate or settle where appropriate, and litigate contested claims when necessary to protect estate resources. Proper documentation and timely responses limit exposure and help ensure that only legitimate obligations diminish the estate. This controlled process preserves assets for rightful beneficiaries and provides transparency for the court record.
Once debts and taxes are resolved and assets are prepared for transfer, the personal representative prepares an accounting for the court and beneficiaries and proceeds with distributions under the will or intestacy statutes. This stage may involve transferring titles, selling property with court approval if necessary, and coordinating final tax filings. The representative files a petition for final distribution and, when approved, distributes remaining assets to beneficiaries and closes the estate. Thorough accounting and clear documentation are essential to obtain the court’s discharge of the personal representative.
Preparing the estate accounting involves documenting receipts, disbursements, distributions, and the status of ongoing obligations, and presenting that record to the court and beneficiaries. Estate and final individual tax filings may be required, and we coordinate with tax professionals to ensure compliance and accurate reporting. Proper accounting protects the personal representative from later claims and provides a clear record supporting final distribution. We assist in preparing and filing necessary tax returns and responding to tax authority inquiries if they arise.
After the court approves the accounting and distribution plan, remaining assets are transferred to beneficiaries and the personal representative seeks discharge from further duties. Transfers are documented with deeds, title changes, or beneficiary payment records, and final receipts are obtained. The court issues an order closing the estate once all requirements are met, and the representative is released from liability. A careful closing ensures the estate is settled in accordance with law and the decedent’s wishes.
Probate administration is the court-supervised process for proving a will, appointing a personal representative, collecting and valuing assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remainder to beneficiaries. It provides a legal mechanism to transfer title to assets that were held solely in the decedent’s name and ensures claims against the estate are addressed in an orderly manner. Many assets, such as property deeds and certain bank accounts, require probate action to complete transfers lawfully. The need for probate depends on the nature and titling of assets, so an early review determines whether the estate must go through formal administration or qualifies for simplified procedures. If an estate is small or assets pass by beneficiary designation or joint ownership, probate may be limited or unnecessary, but many estates still benefit from a formal process to resolve creditor claims and clear title. Consulting with counsel helps identify which assets require probate and what filings and notices are necessary to protect the estate and the personal representative. Proper administration reduces the risk of future disputes and ensures compliance with Georgia law. If you are unsure whether probate is required, an initial consultation can clarify next steps and likely timelines.
The length of probate administration in Georgia varies widely depending on the estate’s complexity, whether there are disputes, and court scheduling, ranging from several months to over a year for straightforward cases. Simple, uncontested administrations that do not involve real property or litigation can often move to final distribution within a matter of months once notices and inventories are completed. Estates with complex assets, creditor claims, tax issues, or will contests typically take longer because additional filings, appraisals, and hearings are required. Court timelines, the need for appraisals or tax clearances, and any contested matters are the primary factors that extend the process. Efficient case management, timely responses to creditor claims, and clear communication with beneficiaries help shorten administration time. When litigation occurs, resolution can take significantly longer, so early identification of risks and strategic planning are important to manage expectations and costs.
A personal representative’s duties include locating and securing estate assets, preparing an inventory, giving notice to creditors and beneficiaries, paying valid debts and taxes, and distributing remaining assets in accordance with the will or intestacy laws. The representative must act in the estate’s and beneficiaries’ best interests, maintain accurate records, and account to the court as required. They may need to manage ongoing property, engage appraisers, work with financial institutions, and file required tax returns on behalf of the decedent. Because these duties involve legal and procedural obligations, many personal representatives consult counsel for guidance on timelines, required notices, and accounting formats that satisfy the court. Proper documentation and transparent communication protect the representative from later claims and help ensure an orderly closing of the estate. If questions arise about whether a specific action is allowed or necessary, seeking legal direction early reduces the risk of later disputes or personal liability.
Yes, a will can be contested on several grounds including lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, forgery, or improper execution under state law. Contesting a will requires timely legal action and evidence supporting the claim, and courts evaluate both the legal formalities of the document and the circumstances surrounding its creation. Not all disagreements justify a successful challenge, and pursuing a contest can be costly and time-consuming, so the merits of the claim should be carefully evaluated before filing. When a will is contested, litigation can delay distributions and increase administrative expenses, which reduces the estate’s net value for beneficiaries. Alternative dispute resolution, such as mediation, is sometimes an effective way to resolve disagreements without prolonged court proceedings. If you believe a will should be challenged or if you are facing a contest against a will you are administering, consult counsel to understand the legal options, likely outcomes, and procedural requirements under Georgia law.
Creditors present claims against the estate and, if valid, are paid from estate assets in a priority order established by law. The personal representative must provide notice to known creditors and publish statutory notice when required to give unknown creditors the opportunity to file claims. Valid claims are reviewed and paid from the estate after being verified, and improper or disputed claims may be challenged in court to protect estate resources. Prompt handling of creditor claims protects the estate from personal liability for the personal representative and helps ensure the correct distribution of assets to beneficiaries. Because creditor rules and priority can be technical, personal representatives often seek legal assistance to evaluate claims, negotiate settlements, or litigate contested debts. Proper documentation and timely responses keep the probate process on track and reduce the risk of later creditor litigation.
When the decedent owned assets in multiple states, ancillary probate may be required in those other jurisdictions to clear title or transfer property that is located out of state. The primary probate proceeding typically occurs where the decedent was domiciled, but ancillary filings in other states ensure legal title to real property or local accounts can be transferred to beneficiaries. Each jurisdiction has its own rules and filing requirements, which can add complexity and cost to the administration process. Coordinating multi-jurisdictional probate requires careful planning, appropriate filings in each relevant court, and sometimes coordination with local counsel to handle ancillary matters. Our firm assists clients in determining which assets require ancillary administration and works with out-of-state counsel when necessary to streamline the process and minimize duplication. Early identification of out-of-state assets helps avoid surprises and reduces delays in final distribution.
Yes, in some cases alternatives to formal probate administration exist, such as small estate procedures, transfer-on-death designations, joint ownership, payable-on-death accounts, or trust administration, which can pass assets outside probate. The availability of these alternatives depends on the type and value of assets and whether proper beneficiary designations or ownership structures were in place prior to death. Trusts, for example, often avoid probate for assets titled in the trust’s name, while small estate affidavits may allow certain transfers without formal administration. However, even when alternatives exist, probate may still be prudent to resolve creditor claims or clear title for real property. An initial review of the estate and asset titles helps determine whether probate is required or whether simplified methods apply. Consulting counsel early clarifies options and the implications of each approach to ensure assets pass appropriately and legally.
The cost of probate administration varies based on the estate’s size, complexity, whether litigation is involved, and whether you hire full-service representation or limited assistance. Typical costs include court filing fees, appraisal and accounting fees, costs for required notices, and attorney fees if legal representation is retained. Some estates qualify for simplified procedures with lower expense, while contested matters or complex asset valuations increase overall costs significantly. Many firms offer an initial consultation to estimate likely steps and potential costs based on the estate’s profile, and transparent billing practices help clients understand where fees are incurred. We provide fee estimates and explain options for limited versus comprehensive representation so clients can choose the level of service that fits their needs and budget. Early planning and efficient case management often reduce avoidable expenses during administration.
If there is no will, the estate is administered under Georgia’s intestacy laws, which specify how property is distributed among surviving relatives such as spouses, children, or other heirs. The court appoints an administrator to handle duties similar to those of an executor, and the administrator must follow statutory priorities in distributing assets. Intestate administration may require documentation to confirm family relationships and can result in outcomes the decedent might not have intended had they left a will. Because intestacy can complicate distribution and increase the likelihood of disputes among potential heirs, legal guidance helps identify rightful heirs, gather necessary documentation, and complete required filings. An administrator should also provide clear accounting and notices to avoid surprises that lead to contested claims. When family dynamics are complex, early legal support helps manage expectations and preserve estate value.
To protect yourself as a personal representative, keep detailed records of all estate transactions, provide timely notices required by statute, obtain court approvals for significant actions, and avoid commingling estate assets with personal funds. Acting transparently, maintaining clear communication with beneficiaries, and seeking legal advice for uncertain decisions reduces personal exposure to later claims. Following statutory duties and court procedures carefully is the primary safeguard against allegations of breach of fiduciary duty. If potential conflicts or complex matters arise, consult counsel promptly to document decisions and obtain necessary court directions. Liability often attaches to failures to follow required processes, so reliance on legal guidance for filing, creditor handling, and final accounting is a practical way to minimize risk. When in doubt, obtain court approval or guidance to ensure actions are within your authority as personal representative.