There are many stressful decisions to make when a loved one passes away, including understanding what the loved one would have wanted for their final arrangements and navigating the probate process.
An executor who openly communicates with the estate beneficiaries can greatly reduce probate stress. However, when an executor is not communicating with beneficiaries, it can be difficult to know how to move forward.
The attorneys of Gaslowitz Frankel LLC have counseled hundreds of clients who have struggled with will and estate disputes with their executors. If you feel as if your executor is withholding crucial information, it is in your best interest to contact an estate litigation attorney immediately.
Read more to learn about the different types of information you are obliged to receive from your executor, and steps you can take if they are withholding information.
What Information is Your Executor Required to Share With You?
Executors are legally obligated to keep the beneficiaries reasonably informed about the estate. The information required to keep beneficiaries reasonably informed generally includes understanding the estate’s assets, debts, and distribution plan, as well as the annual receipts and disbursements from the estate.
Executors are not required to share every detail regarding the probate process. Depending on the provisions of the will being administered or, if the estate is intestate, the order appointing an administrator, executors can be required to provide beneficiaries with a copy of the will, an inventory of the estate and an annual statement of receipts and disbursements (with supporting documentation). Executors should also keep beneficiaries updated on any delays in administering the estate.
If the executor fails to provide the required information or fails to update a beneficiary about the status of the estate in a timely manner, the beneficiary may have cause to contact an attorney.
What Should You Do if Your Executor is Not Communicating with You?
If you believe that the executor of an estate in which you have interest is withholding information from you, an estate litigation attorney is your best option. A litigation attorney can help you obtain an order requiring the executor to disclose the previously withheld information or removing the executor from office altogether.
The best attorney for such a case will be one experienced in fiduciary law. A well-versed attorney can walk you through your litigation or alternative dispute resolution options.
The attorneys at Gaslowitz Frankel LLC are the premier fiduciary litigation attorneys for the state of Georgia, guiding beneficiaries like you toward the best outcomes for you, meaning you can recover and move forward after the loss of a loved one. Our team stands out above other attorneys for our in-depth understanding of the fiduciary process coupled with our compassionate approach to address the whole person. Gaslowitz Frankel LLC has the passion and authority required to deliver clients with their ideal outcomes. Fill out our contact form for a free consultation.
