Being named an executor does not mean you have to handle every task on your own. In fact, knowing when to seek help from qualified professionals is part of fulfilling your duty to act prudently and responsibly.
Estate administration can involve a wide range of complex issues - legal filings, tax returns, real estate transactions, asset appraisals, investment management, and navigating family conflict - many of which benefit from expert support.
This section outlines:
- The types of professionals an executor might retain (e.g., lawyers, accountants, tax advisors, appraisers, and financial planners)
- When and why to bring in external expertise
- How professional fees are handled and paid from the estate
- Tips for effectively coordinating multiple advisors
- The role of trust companies and professional executors, particularly when the named executor is unwilling or unable to act
With the right team, you can administer the estate efficiently, lawfully, and with confidence - while avoiding costly mistakes or unnecessary personal stress.
Hiring a Lawyer
Hiring an Accountant or Tax Advisor
Other Professionals
In Summary: Use Professionals Wisely
Serving as an executor doesn’t mean doing everything yourself - it means ensuring everything gets done properly. In many estates, engaging the right professionals isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.
Think of your role as that of a project manager or coordinator. Your responsibility is to oversee the process, make informed decisions, and delegate tasks appropriately to qualified experts. The estate pays for these services, so when professional assistance is justified, it’s a smart investment that protects both the estate’s value and your own liability.
As the saying goes: “Don’t be penny wise and pound foolish.”
Up next, we’ll look at special scenarios that can complicate estate administration - such as business interests, foreign assets, or family disputes - and how to navigate them, often with the help of the professional allies we've just discussed.