Even if you have a thorough estate plan, you will still need an executor to oversee the distribution of your assets. They will have to adhere to probate law while carrying out your final wishes. To ensure the process goes as smoothly and quickly as possible, choose someone of good character to be your executor. This guide will help you make a better choice on who should carry out your last wishes.

What Factors Should You Look for in an Executor?

1. Responsible Nature

Serving as an executor requires understanding probate law and meeting obligations to adhere to court requests. Someone who is frequently late or misses appointments would not be a good choice to serve as your executor. Choose someone you can trust to be there when you need them.

2. Good Credit History

Under probate law, your executor will have to be bonded or insured to protect against the possibility of fraud or theft. Insurance companies will be less likely to insure someone with a poor credit rating, which means your executor will be unable to fulfill that role. In that case, the court will have to appoint someone of their choosing, regardless of your choice.

3. Youth

Many years will pass between the time you set up your estate plan and your death. Choosing someone close to your age increases the risk that you may outlive your executor, which is why you should choose someone considerably younger than you.

It also makes sense to review your choice every couple of years. In the event of a falling out, it will be necessary to choose a new representative. You should appoint a backup executor if the primary one cannot fulfill the responsibilities.

4. Trustworthiness 

As your estate goes through probate, your executor will have to assess the value of your assets, create an inventory, and liquidate physical property to pay final taxes and debts. These duties give your executor control over your assets, so it’s important to choose someone that you feel confident will carry out your wishes.

Working with an attorney skilled in probate law can help you create an estate plan that will ensure your assets are protected. Located in Cabot, AR, Larry Cook, Attorney at Law has been practicing since 1987 and has the skills and knowledge to help assist in estate planning. To learn more about the firm’s services, visit them online. To schedule a consultation, call them at (501) 843-6591.