Do Your Require an Executor for Your Estate?

Do Your Require an Executor for Your Estate?

This is a commonly asked question when it comes to estate planning. The short answer, if you have executed a will, is yes. In the state of California, the person assigned to handle your affairs when you die is your executor.

What Is the Job of the Executor?

If you die with only a will, then your estate will go through probate. At that time, your executor will be in charge of accounting for all of your assets and distributing them to your heirs as declared in the will. The will gets filed with the probate court. The executor is also in charge of paying off debts or creditors, so these individuals need to be informed of the death. The executor is also in charge of paying the taxes due on the estate and will appear in court on behalf of the estate as necessary.

Avoiding Probate with a Living Trust

A living trust or revocable trust is a great way to avoid probate and the need for an executor. This is a common practice in California, but it can still be confusing to know which option is best for you and how to execute it properly. That’s what the Petrov Law Firm is here for.

Our estate planning attorneys know how to maximize the benefits for your heirs when you are no longer here to take care of them yourself. Call 619-344-0360 to set up a consultation with one of our estate planners today.