3 Reasons An Executor Of An Estate Should Hire A Lawyer
Posted on: 17 January 2023
Have you been threatened with a lawsuit because the beneficiaries of your deceased loved one's estate are bitter that you are the executor? Whether it is one or multiple beneficiaries threatening you, it is time to hire a lawyer to stand your ground for what is right. Failing to hire a lawyer might lead to you giving in to the demands of the beneficiaries rather than sticking to your job as the executor. For example, if the beneficiaries are complaining about what they have inherited from your deceased loved one, it does not mean that you have to give in to their demands. A lawyer can assist with the entire litigation process to keep you out of an argument and resolve the conflict altogether.
1. Get More Organized with Managing the Estate
There are multiple responsibilities involved with being the executor of an estate, and mismanaging any aspect could cause a dispute. When the beneficiaries are bitter, mismanaging the estate could cause even more tension in the situation. A bitter person might be motivated to find every problem possible, but a lawyer can put an end to such a conflict. A lawyer can tell you what needs to be done to organize all of the tasks you are responsible for. He or she can help with locating and valuing assets, paying off debts, and every other aspect of managing your deceased loved one estate.
2. Be Prepared to Show Evidence to the Beneficiaries
When a dispute arises concerning the beneficiaries of an estate, accusations can be made that might require providing evidence. For example, if a beneficiary accuses an executor of embezzling money from the estate, proof should be on hand to debunk the claim. If you are in such a situation and do not know how to provide evidence, a lawyer can assist with gathering the evidence. He or she can draft a document that shows where any money that was spent from the estate was used. Paying off a deceased one's debts is one of the reasons to use money from an estate.
3. Let a Lawyer Communicate with the Beneficiaries
Sometimes the best way to avoid making a conflict worse is to hire a lawyer to communicate with all parties involved in the dispute. For instance, rather than directly replying to the beneficiaries, you can direct them to a lawyer when they have questions. By doing so, it could keep everyone involved on cordial terms so the probate process will go smoother.
Reach out to an estate litigation lawyer near you to learn more.
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