Organizational skills are a requirement in probate. There are many rules to follow and a lot of paperwork to complete throughout this process.
As the California Probate Code indicates, personal representatives must maintain a high level of diligence and care to not only administer their loved one’s estate but also uphold their fiduciary duties. Staying organized can help personal representatives stay diligent. Generally, a loved one will look for these organization skills when selecting a personal representative or executor of their will.
You may already be an organized person, but probate can be an overwhelming procedure, especially amid the stress of grief. So, here are some helpful tips to improve your organization at this time.
1. Keep a detailed “To-Do” list
Plan ahead and track all of your tasks with a thorough, complete list of your “To-Dos.” It may help to create a dedicated planner or notebook to guide you. That way, you can take important notes and mark due dates and appointments all in one place.
If you would prefer, you may also look into some apps or tools that can help facilitate organization. For example, you can set reminders for yourself on your phone’s calendar.
2. Along with the list, create a file
It will also help to have a file where you store all the important documents you will need. As mentioned above, probate involves a long list of paperwork to complete. You can store copies of:
- The will or other estate planning documents
- The notices you file with the court
- The inventory of your loved one’s assets
- Other relevant records
You can go a step further and categorize folders within your file. That way, you can locate documents quickly whenever you need them.
3. Ask for help
Perhaps you have a friend or family member with specific organizational skills you think will help you. They might be well-versed in organization apps or even online spreadsheets. You could obtain their assistance to set up an effective plan to help you keep things organized through probate.
It can also be beneficial to seek guidance from a professional who is familiar with the California Probate Code and the process of estate administration. Working with an attorney can help make the process a bit easier and reduce the weight on your shoulders as you take on the role of personal representative.