Pesänhoitajia

Pesänhoitajia are individuals appointed by a court to manage the estate of a deceased person, known as the testator. This role is typically undertaken when a person dies without a will or when the appointed executor is unable or unwilling to serve. The primary responsibility of a pesänhoitaja is to administer the estate according to the relevant laws and the wishes of the deceased, as far as they can be ascertained.

The duties of a pesänhoitaja are extensive and include locating and inventorying all assets of the estate, such as property, bank accounts, investments, and personal belongings. They are also responsible for identifying and settling all debts and liabilities of the deceased, including taxes, mortgages, and other outstanding obligations. This often involves communicating with creditors and negotiating payment arrangements.

Furthermore, a pesänhoitaja must ensure that the estate is distributed to the rightful heirs or beneficiaries. This process involves determining the legal heirs, which may require consulting wills, legal documents, or family records, and then distributing the remaining assets according to legal requirements. The pesänhoitaja must also maintain detailed records of all transactions and proceedings related to the estate and provide reports to the court and the heirs. The appointment and activities of a pesänhoitaja are overseen by the court to ensure fairness and adherence to legal procedures.