Probate

You must choose executors when making a Will. Most people appoint one family member and one professional executor to guide the way through the maze of complex activities called probate and avoid family disputes.

Tasks of the executor include:

• Settling funeral costs
• Proving that the Will is valid (usually, wills are notarised and signed by two individuals)
• Gathering and presenting the probate court with a list of assets including property and savings
• Presenting the probate court with detailed information on debts owed, and the inheritors of the estate
• Officially notifiying relatives and creditors of the death
• Managing any assets and making decisions that arise related to the estate such as:
  • House insurance
  • Continuity of utilities
  • Maintenance of property
  • Disposal of possessions including furniture
  • Security for the assets
  • Professional valuation
• Paying the debts and taxes and then distributing the remaining assets to the specified heirs