Hastily choosing an executor can lead to problems after your death

Choosing the right executor (or “personal representative”) is critical to the smooth administration of an estate. Yet many people treat this decision as an afterthought. An executor’s duties may include taking inventory of the estate’s assets, filing the estate’s tax returns and paying its taxes, and handling creditors’ claims. A family member is a common first choice, but it can be a mistake. If he or she stands to gain from the will, this can be perceived as a conflict of interest, which can lead to will contests. Contact us for guidance in naming an executor.