Being named the beneficiary of an estate can be overwhelming, as you may feel honored by your loved one’s decision to leave assets to you while also mourning their passing. However, the emotions you experience may only grow worse if the appointed executor does not communicate with you or withhold information about the estate. If this reflects your circumstances, it’s important to connect with PA estate litigation attorneys to explore your legal options when the executor is not adhering to their duties. Keep reading to learn more about their obligations and your rights as the beneficiary of an estate.
What are the responsibilities of an executor?
As the named or court-appointed executor of an estate, this individual is responsible for overseeing the distribution of the estate as per the will of the recently deceased estate owner. This includes informing the beneficiaries of their inheritance as per the will, paying any debts, and maintaining properties until they have been transferred to the correct parties.
Aside from the major responsibilities, it’s important to understand that executors are legally obligated to maintain transparency with the beneficiaries of a will. This includes the debt and assets, how probate is progressing (if necessary), and whether or not there are delays that can prevent them from administering the estate.
Some of the required information executors must share will be included in the estate accountings, which detail certain transactions and assets. For example, this account will include an inventory of the estate, the transfer of assets, changes in values, and the taxes paid from the estate. An executor must provide named beneficiaries with this information.
What are my rights as a beneficiary if the executor won’t communicate with me?
As the beneficiary of an estate, it’s important to understand that you have legal rights if the executor of an estate is not performing their legal duties. Generally, you are within your rights to petition the courts if you have not heard from the executor, they do not provide you with their accounting, you have reason to believe the accountings are incorrect or falsified, or the executor has overstepped their legal authority.
It’s important to understand that you do not have to sit idly by. As the beneficiary of an estate, you can connect with an experienced attorney to explore your legal options when you believe the estate you are the beneficiary of is being mishandled by the executor.
At Friedman Schuman Layser , we understand how overwhelming the death of a loved one can be. Unfortunately, this can only be exacerbated by the deceitful or inconsiderate actions of the individual left in charge of your loved one’s estate. As such, our dedicated firm will do everything possible to help you receive a favorable outcome and justice. Connect with us today to learn how we can fight for you.
