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The main duty of a personal representative in estate administration is to take possession and control of estate assets. This responsibility is critical because it enables the personal representative to manage the estate effectively, ensuring that all assets are accounted for and protected during the administration process. By gaining control over the assets, the personal representative can assess the value of the estate, pay any outstanding debts or taxes, and ultimately distribute the assets to the beneficiaries according to the terms of the will or applicable intestacy laws.

This duty is foundational to the administration process, as the personal representative must first secure and manage estate assets before fulfilling other responsibilities, such as settling debts or distributing inheritances. This control ensures that the estate is preserved and properly allocated, reflecting the intentions of the deceased.

Other responsibilities, such as making funeral arrangements, contesting a will, or selling property for profit, may arise in specific contexts but are not the primary obligation of a personal representative. Securing the estate's assets is fundamental and must occur before addressing these other duties.