Understanding the Role of an Executor

An executor is a trusted person you choose to manage the distribution of your assets and handle your probate after you pass away.

It’s important to make a will that states who you’d like to serve as your executor. This role requires a high level of trust and the ability to follow your wishes and the law after you’re gone.

What Does an Executor Usually Do?

An executor has many responsibilities, which can vary depending on your estate’s complexity. Some tasks may be easier than others.

Typical duties involve paying your bills after you die, gathering tax information and paying your taxes, and settling any debts you owe. Executors might also take care of bank accounts or other financial matters.

A big part of an executor’s job is figuring out who the beneficiaries are and distributing the assets accordingly. They must collect and organize documents to ensure proper allocation and protection of assets until distribution.

Going the Extra Mile as an Executor

Executors must complete and submit paperwork on time and accurately throughout the probate process. They have a limited time to list assets and debts after your death and report them to the right parties, making sure debts and taxes are taken care of.

As the main point of contact, executors usually inform beneficiaries, creditors, and other interested parties about the death and give updates during the probate process.

Why Might Someone Want to Remove an Executor?

There are several reasons why loved ones might want to remove an executor. A common example is if the executor can’t or doesn’t want to handle their duties. Sometimes, after an executor is chosen, their situation may change over the years, making it hard for them to perform their duties.

In some cases, the executor might not be following your wishes as others understand them, and people may want them removed. Dealing with a death can be tough for everyone involved, and strong emotions might lead to confusion or greed. Heirs or loved ones might then feel that the executor should no longer have the responsibility or control.

A conflict of interest might also be a reason for removal. For example, if an executor is also a beneficiary, they might be tempted to move assets around or mismanage them to benefit themselves and give other beneficiaries less than their fair share.

In extreme cases, the executor might engage in misconduct like stealing or manipulating assets, which could lead to their removal and even prosecution.

How Can I Remove an Executor?

If you think the executor isn’t doing their job correctly, you might want them removed. First, make sure your reasons for removal are valid and can be proven.

Gross mismanagement or misconduct are valid reasons for removing an executor. Examples include excessive spending of the estate’s assets, mismanaging assets or debts, not filing paperwork on time, and not filing or paying taxes on behalf of the deceased.

If you can provide enough proof of mishandling, you can file a petition to remove the executor based on these reasons. This step can be challenging, as it’s often hard to find sufficient evidence of the executor’s negligence or wrongdoing if you don’t have access to their accounts or finances.

If there isn’t enough evidence, courts will likely not remove the executor. It’s essential to remember that suspicions alone won’t be enough to remove an executor and replace them.

The court will hold a hearing to determine if the presented facts warrant removal. An experienced estate attorney can help ensure you present enough evidence for the court to take action.

How Can an Estate Planning Attorney Help?

If you suspect an executor is acting negligently or maliciously, it can feel like a betrayal. Let me help you figure out your best options. As an experienced and compassionate estate planning attorney, I can help you review the executor’s actions, gather necessary evidence to support your claims, and represent you in the removal request process.

On the other hand, if you’re an executor who needs assistance to ensure you continue serving in your role, I can also help you with that.

Contact me today at (805) 244-5291 for your free, in-depth consultation. I’ve helped numerous clients with their estate planning needs and ensured that executors handle them appropriately. I work tirelessly for my clients because I understand how important and sacred managing an estate is to loved ones and interested parties. I look forward to assisting you..