Let’s talk about something that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves: choosing your executors.
I get it. When writing a will, most people focus on who gets what. Who’s inheriting the house? Who’s getting the family jewellery? Who’s getting the dog (because let’s be honest, that’s the most important thing)?
But the most important decision you’ll make isn’t about who gets what, it’s about who makes it happen. That’s your executor, and picking the right one can make all the difference.
What Does an Executor Actually Do?
An executor is the person (or people) responsible for sorting out your estate after you die. It’s a job that involves a bit of everything:
✔ Sorting through paperwork
✔ Paying off debts and taxes
✔ Applying for probate (if needed)
✔ Distributing your assets according to your wishes
✔ Keeping the peace between family members (this one is crucial)
It’s a big responsibility. They’re not just handling money and the legal stuff, they’re managing your entire legacy. So, you need someone who’s not too emotional, can take a step back and look objectively when making decisions.
Who Should You Choose?
A lot of people automatically pick their spouse or eldest child, and sometimes that works. But before you go with the easiest option, ask yourself these questions:
🔹 Are they organised? This job requires dealing with paperwork, deadlines, and official forms. If they can’t find their own car keys half the time, maybe not the best choice.
🔹 Are they good under pressure? Losing a loved one is emotional, and executors often have to deal with grieving family members (some of whom may be unhappy with the will). You need someone who can stay calm and keep things moving.
🔹 Do they have the time? Being an executor can take months or even years depending on the complexity of the estate. If your chosen person is already overloaded, it might not be fair to put this on their plate.
🔹 Do they understand the job? They don’t need to be legal experts, but they should be willing to seek advice and follow the rules.
Common Mistakes People Make
🚫 Choosing someone just because it "feels right." Your best friend might be amazing, but if they’re terrible with money and organisation, this isn’t the role for them.
🚫 Only naming one executor. What if they can’t or don’t want to do it when the time comes? Always name a backup!
🚫 Picking someone too old. If your executor is much older than you, there’s a chance they won’t be around when they’re needed.
🚫 Forgetting about family dynamics. If your kids don’t get along now, making them joint executors probably won’t improve things!
Should You Choose a Professional Executor?
I know that my people think that lawyers are far too expensive. I know that sometimes it can feel as if they do not understand your needs. If your estate is complicated or you don’t want to burden family or friends you can appoint a professional executor, like me. They handle all the admin, make sure everything is legally sound, and most importantly they’re neutral.
This can be a great option if:
✅ You have a blended family or complicated relationships
✅ Your estate involves business assets, overseas property, or tricky finances
✅ You just want to make life easier for your loved ones
Alternatively, if you do not want to appoint them to be "in charge" your executors can instruct them to act in relation to the administration to work alongside your family members to ensure your wishes are fulfilled.
Final Thoughts
Your executor is the person who brings your final wishes to life. They need to be capable, trustworthy, and ready for the responsibility. Choosing the right one can make the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
If you’re not sure who to pick, let’s have a chat. I can help you figure out the best option for your situation because a well-chosen executor means peace of mind for you and your family.
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