ARTICLES

Choosing the Right Executor for your Will

After you have decided how your personal estate will be managed in the future, you will need to select an executor to ensure that your plan is carried out. An executor, also known as a personal representative, is the person you name in your will to oversee the division of your property. It is very important to choose the right person for this important task.

Who Can Be an Executor?

An executor can be anyone over the age of 18. Many people appoint their spouse or an adult child, but he or she could also be a close friend or neighbor. Some people choose to place their trust in a professional such as an accountant or a lawyer. It is recommended that you select someone who lives near you, to make the job easier for him or her.

Whoever you pick, they do have the right to refuse the job at any time. This means that even after your death, your executor may decide that he or she no longer feels up to the task. You may name an alternate executor in your will to who the job will be offered in this situation. If you do not name an alternate, the court will appoint someone.

How to Choose the Right Executor

The executor of your will should ideally be someone with the following traits:

• Responsibility
• Honesty
• Trustworthiness
• Good organizational skills
• Respect

A Minneapolis Estate Planning Attorney Can Help

If you do not currently have a will, it is a good idea to begin putting one together. For legal assistance, contact the Minneapolis estate planning attorneys at Skjold ▪ Barthel at 612.746.2560.