Being named the executor of a Will isn’t always a task you look forward to, but something you feel you should do, if asked. It can be especially challenging if there is a significant amount of assets to be distributed or if the deceased has left instructions that might not bode well with everyone concerned. Understandably, this may be an especially trying time for you, just having lost someone dear to you, but some things must be done immediately based on the stipulations in the legal and binding document. So then, what are your responsibilities? They could be many and varied, but let’s look at some of the most common things you’ll be responsible for.
Following Instructions for “Final Arrangements”
This is something that cannot be put off even a day or two in some cases. If the recently departed loved one has left specific instructions on how to carry out final arrangements, that is something you are legally required to follow as they are stated in the Will. Although you may feel like this wouldn’t be something anyone could object to, you never know what others in the immediate family might think about what you are about to carry out.
You might be left with instructions to hold the funeral services in a particular church. That isn’t something most people would disagree with. After all, it is the faith of the deceased that matters. However, what if that Texas rancher, for example, wanted to have their remains buried on his ranch, or scattered in a specific legally allowable location? What if the cremation itself is objected to by some with other beliefs?
Well, to put it bluntly, that’s just too bad. The Last Will and Testament is a legally binding document so making online arrangements with a local crematory like SimpleCremation that offers cremation Fort Worth TX could be necessary. You must carry out those arrangements as stipulated in the Will.
Dealing With Objections
Since you have agreed to be the executor of the will, you are responsible for carrying out everything as stipulated. It may be difficult to deal with objections but it is not in your power to make any changes. You are legally responsible for carrying out all instructions, and if it is the division of assets that is objectionable, it was not something you decided. Your deceased loved one had reasons to divide property and other assets as they saw fit and you have nothing to say about that. In fact, if you don’t do exactly as stipulated you could face criminal charges.
The Last Word on the Last Will and Testament
Since you are required, as executor, to carry out exactly what is written in the Will, that’s what you must do. While there may be times that you cannot divide assets as stipulated, perhaps due to the death of a beneficiary, you can request the probate court’s decision on what you can do. The last word is always written in that Will and so you must follow it to the letter of the law. If, for any reason, you can’t then legal counsel may be required. With that said, your responsibilities are simply to follow the directives. You have no other choice but to do just that.
