Getting named as an executor to someone else’s estate is a dubious honor (and sometimes not worth what is agreed by the parties or allowed as a fee by the Probate Court). It means that the person who passed trusted you to fulfill his or her wishes, which reflects well on your character. There can be a lot of work that comes with managing an estate. The same is true if someone names you as a trustee for an estate or end of life trust.
You need careful and comprehensive awareness of the various legal obligations you’re facing, as well as the specifics of the estate plan, trust requirements or last will. Working with an experienced Illinois estate and probate attorney is wise.
Your attorney can review the documentation provided by the testator to help ensure you are properly complying with all requests. An attorney can also help verify that the requests and requirements within the estate plan, trust or last will comply with state laws. Trying to handle everything on your own could result in a messy situation where one or more heirs or family members contest the will or your role as executor of the estate in the hopes of personal gains.
