When handling probate matters, Personal Representatives often take possession of firearms as assets and are charged with distributing the firearms to beneficiaries. In Minnesota, if a Personal Representative transfers a firearm knowingly to someone who is not lawfully to be in possession of guns, the Personal Representative would be exposed to criminal charges. For example, if a beneficiary is convicted of a felony, domestic abuse, is involuntarily committed for a mental health reason, has been convicted of unlawful possession of illegal drugs, and even if in trouble with the federal ban on marijuana charges. The easiest way for Personal Representatives to protect themselves from personal liability is to arrange a private transfer through a gun shop by contacting a gun shop and determining if they handle private transfers and arranging an appointment where the Personal Representative and beneficiary can complete the transaction through the gun shop. The same process can be used for transferring to a beneficiary outside of Minnesota. Please contact Donohue McKenney at 763-201-1450 with any probate issues.