Choosing an executor means selecting someone to act on your behalf and carry out the instructions in your will, making it one of the most important decisions involved in creating an estate plan. Because this role carries so much responsibility, it’s important to name an individual with the organizational skills to juggle a variety of tasks and the integrity to manage your assets. You’ll also need to ensure that the person you nominate is allowed to serve as an executor under your state laws.

What Does an Executor Do?

The executor of your estate will be responsible for submitting your will to probate, closing your bank accounts, paying off debts, and inventorying your assets. If your estate doesn’t have the cash to meet your remaining financial obligations, they’ll also have the authority to sell some of your property to satisfy those debts.

If anyone challenges the will or files an objection during the process, your executor will be charged with representing your estate to ensure your wishes are respected. Finally, they’ll also have to distribute your assets to the beneficiaries named in your will and submit a final accounting to the court.

Who Can Serve As an Executor?

Each state has limitations on who may serve as the executor of an estate. In Pennsylvania, for instance, almost anyone over the age of 18 may be nominated, unless they’re found to be mentally unfit or have been charged with the death of the deceased. Corporations who aren’t licensed as fiduciaries in the Commonwealth are also barred from acting as representatives of an estate.

To minimize conflict and ensure probate goes smoothly, many people choose to name their estate planning attorney as their executor. In addition to understanding the process and what steps need to be taken, lawyers are impartial professionals, which can minimize tensions between family members. 

For over 20 years, the Law Offices of Robert B. Liotta, Esq. has provided personalized estate planning services and effective legal advice to clients throughout Pennsylvania’s Westmoreland, Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, and Indiana counties. Whether you’re updating your will or preparing an estate plan for the first time, you can depend on their team to ensure your last wishes are respected. Visit their website for an overview of their estate planning services or call (724) 334-9870 to make your first appointment.