Section 10553 Of Article 4. Powers Exercisable Without Giving Notice Of Proposed Action From California Probate Code >> Division 7. >> Part 6. >> Chapter 3. >> Article 4.

. The personal representative has the power to do all of the following:
  (a) Commence and maintain actions and proceedings for the benefit of the estate.
  (b) Defend actions and proceedings against the decedent, the personal representative, or the estate.