Executor Duties

If someone close to you asked you to be the executor, you probably feel honored, but at the same time you may be quite unsure of your responsibilities. What do you need to do, when does it need to be done and how much time will it take? To get accurate answers to these questions and for assistance in carrying out your duties as executor, seek out the advice of a trusted lawyer.

At Avera Law Firm, P.L.L.C., our probate and estate administration lawyer, Robert Avera, is committed to helping executors and administrators navigate through the sometimes-complex Texas rules regarding probate matters. We are happy to meet with you, learn about your situation and explain how we can help you face the probate process for your loved one’s estate.

Demystifying The Probate Process

Most first-time executors know they may have to “go through probate,” but often are not sure what that really means. Simply put, probate is the process courts use to ensure that wills are valid, that assets are distributed and that final expenses are paid. As an executor, you have the right to hire an accountant, an attorney and any other professional who can assist you with the process. Professional fees are charged to the estate, not to the executor.

Some Of Your Duties As An Executor

Before and during the process, executors must take some important practical steps. In Texas, Avera Law Firm, P.L.L.C., will help you fulfill these duties, including:

• Keeping track of funeral expenses
• Locating and retrieving the person’s will, trust and other estate planning documents
• Obtaining a guardian for minor children, if necessary
• Notifying the IRS of the death
• Locating and obtaining values for assets, then separating which assets need to go through probate and which do not
• Applying to probate the will
• Paying claims, expenses and taxes (estate taxes and final income taxes)
• Distributing the assets that remain after expenses are paid

Executors have many responsibilities but Avera Law Firm, P.L.L.C., is by your side throughout the process. Turn to us when you need help or when you have questions about what to do and when to do it.

Call Us Today For Knowledgeable Legal Advice

If you are anywhere in the Austin area and have been chosen to serve as an executor, call Avera Law Firm, P.L.L.C., for advice.  Call us today at 512-615-3578 or email our firm to schedule a time to meet with us.