Are you an Executor?
Being an executor of a Will can be a complex and time consuming task. Many people appoint a friend or relative as a way of acknowledging their respect or admiration for that person. However, being left with the burden of administering a loved one’s estate can be a distressing task during a time of grief.
If you have been named the executor of a Will you are under no legal obligation to accept this appointment. Taking on the responsibility may not be the right thing for you and it is unlikely that the person who nominated you would have wanted to put you under stress.
If you are unsure whether you are the right person to take on the role of executor, you should consider this before you apply for a grant of probate. However, before making this decision it is important you consider the following:
- Do you have time to manage all the paperwork required in a timely way?
- Will you be able to find all the beneficiaries of the estate easily?
- Are you confident you have the relevant business, legal and financial experience to create the best outcome for the beneficiaries?
- Will the beneficiaries view your actions as impartial, or will you be open to criticism and accusations of bias?
We are experts in estate administration and with our dedicated team of estate managers, accountants and solicitors we are equipped to deal with any issue that may arise. If you are worried about not being able to achieve all that is asked of you as executor, please contact your nearest Public Trustee branch.