Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Pennsylvania
There are three co-executors on my father's estate. Collectively, we do not get along. As of today, probate had not been initiated. I want to offer that the other two parties buy me out for one lump (discounted) sum. Is this legal?
1 Answer from Attorneys
You are asking 2 separate questions. Having three-co-executors is a mistake for the very reasons that you cite. People do not get along. If no one has probated the will, then you should do it and see if you can get the others to renounce. Renouncing as executor does not mean that they are renouncing their right to inherit. If they refuse, this can go to court and the register will appoint one of you to be executor.
The other question relates to real property. You cannot force a sale at a "discount" and force the other parties to buy you out. They pay you for your fair share of the land, unless its necessary to sell the land as part of the administration of the estate. If they refuse, you can seek what is called partition and force a sale of the real property and anyone can bid at the sale. Seek out a probate litigation attorney in the county where the estate will be administered for help with all of this.