What does an executor of a Will do?
If your loved one passed away with a Will, then an executor is named within the document or appointed by the court. The executor of a Will carries out the terms of a Will and is responsible for managing the estate’s probate.
The named executor of a Will must submit the Will to probate court, along with a petition asking the court to open the California probate process, where management and distribution of assets are overseen by the court.
An executor of a Will may be expected to perform duties such as:
- Taking care of your loved one’s financial obligations
- Representing the estate for legal purposes
- Managing the affairs and expenses of the estate
- Contacting government institutions and issuing notifications
- Filing final tax returns for your loved one
If you don’t feel confident in carrying out these tasks effectively, you may hire a professional to help. Contact one of our experienced attorneys today for a free consultation.
If most of your loved one’s assets were held in a Trust before they died, then the executor’s role is limited.
What does a Trustee of a Trust do?
The Trustee of a Trust carries out the terms of a Trust and is named in Trust documents. The Trustee usually has to agree to act the role and assumes all duties and responsibilities outlined in both the California probate code and the Trust document.
The Trustee can take over management of the Trust without court intervention and are the legal owner of Trust assets.
The Trustee role comes many responsibilities including:
- Managing assets in the Trust
- Tax filings for the Trust
- Distributing Trust assets, as relayed in the terms of the Trust
- Communicating regularly with beneficiaries
Acting as a Trustee is complex and you may be personally liable. For further assistance in carrying out your duties, our Trust attorneys are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
