One of our biggest aims for clients is that their estate is administered efficiently and as painlessly as possible.
A high quality, legally binding Will and Estate Plan can go a long way in smoothing the process.
Sadly though even the best laid plans can go awry – and with no Will or plan at all they almost certainly do.
It helps to have an understanding of the most common issues when it comes to estate administration and how to avoid them.
Here are the most common issues that occur:
- The Will doesn’t appoint an Executor or the Executor refuses to act.
- Joint Executors don’t agree.
- An Executor may not be fit to administer the estate.
- Beneficiaries don’t agree with the Executor’s decisions.
- Executor delaying estate distribution.
- Beneficiaries can’t agree on what will happen to the estate property.
- Mishandling of assets during the deceased’s lifetime.
- There is no Will.
- The Will is invalid or out-of-date.
What next?
While some estate disputes and administration problems are unavoidable, it is possible to avoid or mitigate many issues, particularly in the planning stages. You should speak to qualified Wills and Estate professional such as Gill & Lane Solicitors for advice on best protecting your wishes in an estate plan, or if you need help administering an estate.