The primary purposes of a will are to divide your assets, determine how to pay any creditors and taxes, and arrange your other affairs, such as child and pet guardianship. To administer the will, you must choose an executor. Many people simply select their will attorney to handle the responsibility. However, if you intend to choose someone else, here are the qualities you should look for.

What Qualities Should You Look For in a Will Executor?

1. Impartiality

You want someone fair and impartial who will consider your wishes, along with the best interests of the beneficiaries. In many cases, the executor is not a beneficiary. This means they can administer your instructions with regard to the estate and your beneficiaries—without succumbing to bias.

2. Determination

Executing a will can be challenging. It may require—along with the help of your will attorney—defending the estate against false creditors or legal challenges from dissatisfied heirs. You want a representative who has the determination and strength of will to stand up to these types of challenges and ensure your wishes are enforced.

3. Ethics

Because your executor will have access to your finances and estate, along with the responsibility for disbursement, you should choose someone you trust. Your representative should be ethical, honest, and unlikely to be swayed by the possibility of personal gain. 

4. Financial Skills

The executor must be responsible and financially savvy. They must understand how financial instruments—stocks, bonds, or real estate—work well enough to exercise caution when selling or transferring assets. They must also handle accounting issues, keep financial records, and file tax returns, if necessary. 

If you need an experienced will attorney to draft your last will and testament, contact Dennis P. Faller, Attorney at Law. Dennis has served clients in and around Auglaize County, OH, through his solo practice since 1985. He and his team specialize in estate planning, living wills, and title insurance. Visit their website or call (419) 738-4578 to arrange a consultation with an expert will attorney today.