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New Jersey Employment Lawyers > Blog > Estate Planning > Four Considerations When Picking the Executor for Your Will

Four Considerations When Picking the Executor for Your Will

Executor

Do you have a will? You Should. Your last will and testament helps to set the foundation for your estate plan. As part of your will, you will need to name an executor. An executor is a person named to manage the deceased estate. They are responsible for carrying out the instructions in the will. You need to pick a reliable, willing, and qualified executor. At Poulos LoPiccolo PC, we provide estate planning services in New Jersey and New York. Here, our estate planning lawyers highlight four considerations for choosing the executor for your will.

  1. Do You Trust Them to Perform the Role? 

First and foremost, you need to be sure that you select an executor who you truly trust to perform the role. An executor is ultimately the party who bears the responsibility for submitting your will to the probate court and ensuring that the instructions are followed. You should assess their integrity, impartiality, and capacity to act responsibly under some level of pressure. Ultimately, you need someone you can trust to follow your wishes and act in the best interests of your beneficiaries.

  1. Are They Willing to Take the Time to Do the Paperwork? 

Trust is not enough. You should always look for an executor who actually wants to take on the responsibility. The reality is that executing a will can involve a considerable amount of paperwork and administrative duties. You should ensure that your chosen executor is prepared and willing to invest the necessary time to manage these tasks effectively. Among other things, this typically includes filing court documents, managing estate accounts, and communicating with beneficiaries.

  1. Are They Young Enough and Healthy Enough to Be a Reasonable Choice? 

The role of an executor can be demanding. It may also not actually arise for many years—even several decades—in the future. It’s important to choose someone who is not only young enough to likely outlive the probate process but also in good health. For example, if you are in your 50’s, picking your own parent as an executor is generally not a reasonable choice. 

  1. Is Your Estate Too Complicated for a Loved One (Professional Needed)? 

An executor can be a family member or friend. An executor can also be a professional, such as an attorney. Who you should name as an executor will depend, in part, on the complexity of your estate. Your estate involves complex assets, such as businesses, multiple properties, or investments in different states or countries; as such, a professional executor might be necessary.

Speak to Our New Jersey and New York Estate Planning Lawyers Today

At Poulos LoPiccolo PC, our New Jersey and New York estate planning attorneys are standing by, ready to provide solutions-focused guidance and support. If you have any questions about choosing an executor for your will, please do not hesitate to contact us for a fully private, no obligation initial case review. Our firm provides estate planning services to clients in New Jersey and New York.

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