It is important for Pennsylvania residents to take steps to execute estate planning documents in accordance with one’s personal circumstances, and an attorney can advise individuals regarding an estate plan.
Choosing an executor for your estate is one of the most important parts of the estate plan. An executor has the responsibility of ensuring that your estate is administered according to your wishes.
Objective traits of a good executor
There are many factors that should be considered when selecting an executor. The perfect executor for one person will not always be the same for everyone, but there are some traits that an executor should possess. For example, an executor should have strong organizational and communication skills, and be emphatic. There will be instances when your executor will be communicating with grieving family members and friends while dealing with his or her own emotions.
Personal compatibility with an executor
On a personal level, the executor should be compatible with you. You should share similar world views and moral opinions. You do not have to agree on everything, but you should agree on matters you think are important. Your executor should be someone that you trust, who will make decisions in accordance with your wishes during the administration of your estate.
An executor works with an attorney to probate an estate and, with the attorney’s advice, moves through the estate administration process. Any creditors of an estate have one year from the date of notification to advise of any outstanding debts of a decedent, and most estates can be completed within 12 to 15 months of the date of publication of an estate in a local newspaper.
