PR-1807 Guidance: Consent to Serve | Gavel
PR-1807 Guidance: Consent to Serve (Wisconsin)
The PR-1807 Consent to Serve form is used when an individual agrees to serve as a personal representative or special administrator for a deceased person's estate in Wisconsin. Jump to guide on filling it out.
Official PR-1807 PDF Download (wicourts.gov)
When you need form PR-1807
The PR-1807 Consent to Serve form is integral during the probate process when someone is nominated to take charge of the deceased person's estate. This typically occurs after the submission of a petition for administration of the estate. The nominated personal representative or special administrator uses this form to declare willingness to fulfill the duties related to managing the estate, submit to the court's jurisdiction, and comply with Wisconsin's laws regarding the probate process.
Before reaching this step:
- File a Petition for Administration for either informal or formal probate.
- Submit a Death Certificate to the court to verify the decedent's passing.
- Provide a will (if available) to start the probate process.
The need for the PR-1807 form is triggered by the court's acceptance of a submitted petition for estate administration. This commences the probate process. The individual appointed as personal representative or special administrator must then provide this Consent to Service to confirm acceptance of the role and responsibilities.
How to file form PR-1807
- Complete the Form: Begin by accurately filling out the PR-1807 Consent to Serve form. Ensure all personal information, such as name, address, and contact details, is correct, and specify if serving as a personal representative or special administrator.
- Obtain a Resident Agent: Appoint a resident agent to accept service of process or a Wisconsin resident may serve as a resident agent to accept service.
- Sign the Form: The form requires signature to indicate consent to serve. The appointed resident agent, must also sign the form.
- File the Form with the Court: Submit the completed and signed form to the appropriate Circuit Court in the county where the estate is being probated.
- Adhere to Any Additional Requirements: Be prepared to file any required bond as stipulated and adhere to specific instructions given by the local probate court.
Tips for filling out form PR-1807
When completing form PR-1807, pay special attention to these less obvious sections:
Role Clarification
Understand that by consenting to serve, you're agreeing to take on the legal responsibilities of managing the estate, including acting in the best interests of the beneficiaries and the estate. Ensure you are prepared for the time and legal obligations involved.
Nonresident Requirement
If you are not a resident of Wisconsin, you must appoint a resident agent to accept service of process. This person will act as an intermediary to receive legal documents on your behalf. Ensure the resident agent is someone you trust and is reliable.
Choosing a Resident Agent
Select someone who is organized and responsible, as they will be handling important legal papers related to the estate. Confirm their willingness to perform this role before listing them on the form.
What to do after filing form PR-1807
- Ensure that the court has received and accepted your Consent to Serve form by checking with the clerk of the probate court or accessing Wisconsin's online court records system, if available.
- If you are appointed as a personal representative, gather all necessary documentation and information related to the estate, including financial records, assets, and any testamentary documents.
- Prepare to file any required bond as stated in the form, if applicable, to fulfill obligations related to your role as personal representative or special administrator.
- If you are a nonresident and have appointed a resident agent, ensure the agent is prepared to accept service of process on your behalf and communicate any relevant updates with them.
- Once your role is officially recognized by the court, begin the process of administering the estate, which may include distributing assets, paying debts, and filing necessary tax returns, while keeping the court and interested parties informed as required.