Although planning for your passing isn’t the most exciting thing to do, it is a necessary step in securing your loved ones’ future while ensuring that your wishes are followed after your departure. Everyone’s situation in life is different, but for most people, appointing an executor is a key component in estate planning and administration.

What is an Estate Executor?

An executor of an estate is the person who has been appointed by the decedent to manage the legal and financial affairs of the decedent’s estate upon their passing. In other words, the executor is the person who is responsible for ensuring that the properties, bank accounts, bills, and other financial and property matters get resolved after someone dies.

This is slightly different from an estate administrator only in that the executor is the person named in the decedent’s will. An estate administrator is usually appointed by the probate court when they are handling a case of someone who died without a will.

If you don’t have a will drafted, you’re encouraged to work with an attorney in your state who specializes in estate administration. For example, in New York, you might consider looking for an estate administration lawyer Long Island courts recognize as being able to handle estate planning. Visit this website if you need an estate administration lawyer in Long Island.

Appointing an Executor

Appointing an executor is usually as simple as naming an individual in your will. It’s always a good idea to discuss this matter with the person you appoint so that they will be aware of their duties upon your passing.

If your estate is relatively large or complex, working with an attorney is going to be a benefit. In keeping with the New York example above, an estate administration lawyer Long Island courts recognize as being qualified to handle estate planning is going to be your best bet for getting answers to your questions regarding appointing an executor.

Cases involving a lot of assets can be complicated if an executor has little experience in dealing with such matters, so establishing a legal partnership with an estate administration attorney now can help to alleviate some of the stress placed upon the executor.

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