What is a common duty of a personal representative in probate law?

A personal representative, often referred to as an executor or administrator, has several critical responsibilities in the probate process, one of which is distributing assets to the beneficiaries of the deceased's estate. This duty involves ensuring that the estate is settled according to the will (if one exists) or according to state law in cases of intestacy. The personal representative must inventory the estate's assets, pay any debts and taxes, and then distribute the remaining assets to the heirs or beneficiaries as specified. This duty is foundational to the probate process and is essential for fulfilling the intentions of the deceased, ensuring a smooth transition of assets to the rightful parties.

The other options do not accurately reflect the role of a personal representative. Creating new laws is a function reserved for legislative bodies, judging cases pertains to the duties of a judge, and representing the state typically involves a different legal role, such as that of a prosecutor or attorney general. Thus, distributing assets is the most accurate representation of a personal representative's common duty in probate law.