Appointing an Executor when preparing your Will

Many people appoint family or friends as their executor without giving much thought as to whether they will have the time, required skills and expertise to undertake this role.

Being an Executor can be extremely time consuming and daunting. The probate process can take up to a year to complete, sometimes longer, and there is lots to do in that time. Being responsible for making such important decisions can be stressful and your loved ones may be held personally liable for any mistakes, even if they are perfectly innocent, so the cost of getting it wrong can be high.

You may also find that whoever you chose to be your Executor could die before you, lose mental capacity or they may not wish to be responsible for handling your estate.

Even if Probate is not needed, tasks including registering the death, arranging and paying for the funeral and informing business and organisations that a loved one has died leaves your family with a lot to do if they are left responsible for dealing with these matters so you may decide that a professional is better placed to support them during what will be a difficult time for them.

Handling your affairs responsibly

Executors have a duty to put their personal interests to one side and act in the best interests of the estate so it’s important to choose an Executor you can trust. Someone who you can rely on to handle your affairs responsibly.

An alternative to those closest to you is to consider the appointment of a professional. This could be a solicitor, probate provider or Trust Corporation. A Trust Corporation like ZEDRA offer a competitively priced service and provide your loved ones with a dedicated probate specialist who can support them through the process.

By appointing a professional with experience in these matters, you can provide your family with peace of mind and someone to talk them through the steps – holding their hand every step of the way.

Our probate team provide a friendly, first class personal and professional service to those wanting to appoint a professional Executor.

Here at ZEDRA Estate Planning, our experts in Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Trusts and Probate have decades of experience helping people with Estate Planning and Estate Administration. If you haven’t yet prepared your Will, or would like to review it, please contact us to discuss your situation and find out how we can help.