ESTATE ADMINISTRATION: WHO DOES THE LEGWORK?
Recording your final wishes on paper is all well and good and it is of course quite necessary. But as you are doing so you must also recognize the fact that somebody is going to have to carry out your wishes in a hands-on manner. If you use a Last Will to direct the transfer of your assets this legwork is done by the executor or personal representative.
When you are drawing up your Will you have to consider your choice of executor. It is important to understand the fact that it is not a purely ceremonial position that you give to someone that you feel especially close to as an honor. In fact there are many different business oriented tasks that must be completed by the executor during the probate process and this is something to keep in mind.
Things like the payment of final taxes, appraisal and liquidation of real and personal property, and handling any disputes that may arise among interested parties are all going to be matters that must be taken care of by the executor. Clearly, interpersonal skills are required along with a good bit of business acumen.
The executor is also going to have to bring in a good local Redlands probate lawyer to assist during the process, and you may want to arrange for the attorney who draws up your last will to act in this capacity as well when the time comes.
There are a lot of details to consider when you are making plans for the future, and the best way to be certain that everything is handled properly is to tap into the legal experience and expertise that only a licensed attorney can provide.