Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Washington
duties of executor of an estate
I know that an executor is supposed to "settle" an estate. My question is, what is an executor supposed to do? Where can I find a "how to serve as an executor" guide? I assume a court becomes involved; does an executor need to hire an attorney? If so, should a person writing a will provide the executor with funds for this, or does the executor claim expenses against the estate?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: duties of executor of an estate
An executor executes the will. If there was no will, the administrator administrates the estate. In WA they are now both called the personal representative.
You might find such a guide in a law library or the public library. The appropriate voume of a set entitled Washington Practice will be particularly helpful, and it may contain forms. You could also look up some other probate files at the county clerk's office. Seeing what attorneys have done might help you with the task.
Yes, a court normally gets involved.
You probably need an attorney. If you try it on your own, you might be able to handle it, but you'll most likely just get frustrated and get an attorney anyway. The only client I had who tried it himself finally got too frustrated with the process and came to me.
The PR is paid out of the estate.
Feel free to call.
Gary Preble
Olympia
360-943-6960
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
