An executor is not legally obligated to keep siblings informed of all actions taken or to provide copies of the death certificate, but it is generally considered good practice to maintain communication with all beneficiaries and interested parties. Keeping siblings informed can help prevent misunderstandings and disputes. Executors should review the will and local laws, as requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Transparency can foster trust and collaboration among family members during the estate administration process.
No. An executor is the person who has been officially appointed to settle the estate. The executor does not answer to the heirs and they do not direct the actions taken by the executor. They do not need the permission or involvement of the heirs. Although the executor may, at their discretion, encourage the interested parties to express an opinion regarding the sale, the executor has the legal power and authority to make the final decision.
Of course not. If the beneficiary has reason to believe the executor is mishandling the estate they should complain to the court that appointed the executor immediately and ask the court to review the situation.
No actions need to be taken, as your mother still lives. She can modify the will to appoint a new executor. Or when she does pass on, the court can appoint someone else to serve.
A "certificate of service" is a document that confirms a legal document has been properly delivered to all parties involved in a case. It is used in legal proceedings to ensure that all parties are informed of important documents and actions taken in the case.
The will must go into probate. That is your opportunity to challenge the actions of the executor. A probate Judge will hear you on these issues and rule according to state law and in the fair interests of those involved.
Yes, the executor has the duty to carry out the instructions of the will regardless of what any potential beneficiaries may want. There may be situations in which the executor must sell certain property in the best interests of the estate. Of course, any questionable actions of an executor can be challenged in court.
The duties of an executor are to prove the will to bury the deceased collect in the estate to pay the debts in their proper order to pay the legacies and distribute the residue among the persons entitled the executor may bring actions against anyone who is indebted to the testator or are in possession of property belonging to the estate
Generally, no. An executor has no authority until the will has been submitted to probate court, proved and allowed, and the court has officially appointed the executor. Once a will has been filed for probate it becomes a public record and anyone can go to the court, request the file and review the will and any other filings. An executor should not be secretive about a will or their actions in settling the estate.
The executor receives a statutory percentage of the assets for performing their duties. They are paid before any bequests are paid. You would need to check your state probate code for the amount allowed in your state.
There is a form that is submitted to the court with the will to request a letter of authority. It can recommend who wishes to be the executor. In most cases, unless there is controversy, the court will appoint that person. Otherwise the court will appoint a neutral party.
You can resign from the position upon providing a full accounting of your actions in regards to the estate.
An executor who spends money improperly can be sued to have him return the money, pay for interest lost on the mispent money, forfeit his commissions and perhaps be removed as executor. These are civil actions to be brought in probate court mostly. He may also be charged with criminal theft .