Choosing an executor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your estate. Your executor is the person who will handle your affairs after your death—managing your assets, paying any outstanding debts, and ensuring your wishes are followed exactly as set out in your will.
At Brighton Wills, we help families across Brighton, Sussex, and the South East make informed decisions about their estate planning. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the right executor.
What Is an Executor?
An executor is the individual (or individuals) appointed in your will to take legal responsibility for administering your estate. Their duties typically include:
Locating and securing your will
Registering the death
Applying for probate
Valuing your assets and liabilities
Paying any outstanding debts, taxes, and funeral costs
Distributing your estate to beneficiaries according to your will
Because the role carries legal authority and significant responsibility, it’s essential to choose someone capable, reliable, and organised.
Who Can Act as an Executor?
In the UK, almost anyone aged 18 or over can act as an executor, including:
Your spouse or civil partner
Adult children or family members
Trusted friends
Professional executors such as solicitors, accountants, or estate-planning specialists
Trust corporations
You may name up to four executors, although only four can act at once. Many people appoint more than one executor to ensure continuity if one is unable or unwilling to act.
Key Qualities to Look for in an Executor
Choosing the right person can make the probate process far smoother for your loved ones. Look for someone with:
✔ Trustworthiness
Your executor will manage sensitive financial information and valuable assets. They must be dependable and honest.
✔ Good organisational skills
Administering an estate involves paperwork, deadlines, and communication with banks, HMRC, solicitors, and beneficiaries.
✔ Financial confidence
They don’t need to be an expert, but they should feel comfortable managing money and understanding legal documents.
✔ Availability and willingness
Probate can take months—or sometimes longer. Make sure your chosen executor is willing and able to take on the responsibility.
✔ Impartiality
In estates where family tensions may arise, a neutral executor—such as a professional—can help avoid conflict.
Should You Appoint a Professional Executor?
There are situations where choosing a professional executor is a smart option, such as:
Large or complex estates
Estates including property portfolios or business ownership
Where potential disputes between beneficiaries are likely
When there is no suitable family member or friend available
Professional executors charge a fee—usually a percentage of the estate or an hourly rate—but this can provide valuable expertise, efficiency, and impartiality.
Before naming a professional executor in your will, ensure you understand their fee structure and agree with their terms.
Discuss Your Choice Before Finalising It
It’s always wise to talk to the person (or people) you plan to appoint as executor. Explain the role and confirm they are comfortable taking it on. This prevents surprises and avoids delays later.
If appointing multiple executors, consider how well they work together—disagreements between co-executors can slow down the probate process or lead to legal challenges.
Keep Your Will Updated
Once you’ve chosen an executor, make sure their full name and address are included in your will. You should review and update your choice if:
Your executor dies or becomes ill
Your relationship changes
Your executor moves abroad
Your estate becomes more complex
You remarry or experience another major life change
An outdated executor appointment can create complications for your family and delay the administration of your estate.
What Happens If No Executor Is Named?
If your will doesn’t name an executor, or if the appointed executor cannot act, a close relative or beneficiary will normally apply to the Probate Registry to become the administrator of your estate.
This can take longer and may increase the risk of disagreements within the family.
Make the Right Choice With Expert Guidance
Choosing an executor is an essential part of responsible estate planning. The right person will ensure your wishes are respected, your estate is handled efficiently, and your loved ones are supported during a difficult time.
Our friendly estate-planning specialist, Jane Amos, can guide you through the process of writing or updating your will and help you choose the executor best suited to your circumstances.
📞 Call us on 01273 385833
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Let Brighton Wills & Family Trusts give you the clarity and confidence you need to plan for the future.