Is it complicated to be an executor ?

babsx

Rather than pay solictor's exorbitant legal fees, would anybody know how easy/complicated it is to act as somebody's executor? (will)

shykins

this would sort of depend on how complictaed the will is and how many beneficiaries etc... as far as getting probate granted you can get the forms from the probate registry and complete them yourself they are fairly straightforward once you have collected the necessary information

hope this helps a little

NixNoo

Same as shykins - depends on the will but don't let them solicitors frighten you cos they tried it with us and we sailed thro and saved loads of money.

Good luck!
Nix

babsx

Yes, it would be a straight forward will, so sounds like it would be pretty easy to sort it out myself. Thanks for info guys!

dunstonh

There is some legal liability involved and you need to make sure that the estate has sufficient funds to pay for the funeral otherwise the executer can end up paying for it out of their own money (if they book the funeral). However, with a simple estate, there really isnt a need for solicitors.

jonesMUFCforever

dunstonh wrote:

There is some legal liability involved and you need to make sure that the estate has sufficient funds to pay for the funeral otherwise the executer can end up paying for it out of their own money (if they book the funeral). However, with a simple estate, there really isnt a need for solicitors.

The above is a great answer!
Note that the liability is 100% on Executor if something goes wrong!
Ideally perhaps have at least 2 executors - 2 heads and all that. In particular take care if deceased had any dealings whatsoever with any Government Dept. If any benefit has been paid in error they will ask for it back even if you have distributed assets and wound up estate.

fatbelly

If you appoint a solicitor as executor, it means that when the time comes the solicitor will be acting for the deceased. Which makes it hard to influence the process, especially where speed or costs are concerned.

However, if you appoint a friend or relative as executor, and they need legal help, the solicitor acts for them. Which is a whole different ball game.

silvercar

Anyone know how long it takes to get a certificate of completion from the inland revenue?

Ken68

Also , not sure, doesn't the executor have to sign that no monies are owing to The Inland Revenue. If say you find income fiddling whilst going thru the deceased papers, this has to be declared.

silvercar

Apparently the accounts etc are done the lady selling her house at the top of our (too long) chain has just been advised to obtain this certificate of completion before she actually exchanges on her house sale.

Her solicitor has advised her to obtain this certificate before exchange; I hope he has advised her on how to pay inheritance tax if the first time buyers pull out because she won't commit!