Executor refuses to sign documents!

ipri

Hi,
My brother is executor of our late uncles will . He has aleady removed anything of value in a trailer without consulting anyone else on their wishes. He now refuses to make the ( Long) trip to the Solicitor to sign documents. Both he and I are likely to be major benefactors. I assume he has already got a copy of the will since my uncle died 6 weeks ago. There is a house to be sold but as yet, nothing is in progress regarding this. What can be done to allow the normal process?

SeniorSam

Does he have the right to remove anything of value and if so, is it to dispose of for the beneficiaries.

As Executor, he has a legal responsibility to act in the interest of the deceased to administer the wishes of the Will. Since a solicitor is involved, you may be able to raise your concerns with the solicitor, as he also has a duty of care. Documents to sign can be sent to a local solicitor if requested.

Sam

googler

If he's removing items in order to comply with the terms of the will, all good and well.

If he's removing stuff to sneak it out of the house, and claim it for himself outwith the terms of the will, that's not

You could remind him of his legal responsibilities, couldn't you?

ipri

Hi..unfortunatly, he doesnt speak to me...hasnt for years..didnt even inform me of the funeral date!....I believe he removed stuff for his own benefit.....not out of character!...I have no way of knowing who the solicitor is....or if I would have any juristiction anyway? ian

SeniorSam

Contact the Probate Court in the County where your Uncle lived. Explain the problem to them and they may be able to guide you. Your Brother will need to obtain Probate and the Court will be very interested in what has been taken away before Probate has been granted. They may also wish to advise your Brother of his legal obligations and in default, he may face court action against him.

Sam

thenudeone

I believe that a will becomes a public document once probate is granted, so you will be able to see exactly what you are supposed to receive.

If you believe that you have failed to receive what is due to you because of his actions, and he refuses to correct the problem, I suggest you see a specialist solicitor with the intention of taking legal action against him. Unfortunate but possibly necessary.

zygurat789

I turned up at our local probate office found a number from their computer system, paid £6 and got a copy in the post within 5 days

http://www.justice.gov.uk/guidance/courts-and-tribunals/courts/probate/copies-of-grants-wills.htm