When a person dies, and has a Will, the Executor’s job is to Probate the Will (in the jurisdiction where the deceased lived) and to carry out the Testator’s wishes in accordance with his/her Will. This involves following the Will and also involves determining any possible claims against the Estate and tracking down all of the assets. When a person dies Without a Will the job of tracking down assets and liabilities falls to a relative or friend who, after applying for a Grant of Administration is appointed by Probate Court to act for the Estate.
In both situations this carries an obligation to file forms with Probate Court and provide notices to likely beneficiaries of the Estate. A lawyer who is familiar with the law, the process and forms can help by providing advice and/or the preparation of the documents for the representative.