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Writer's pictureMelanie Palmer

What makes a good executor of a Will?


Executor administering an estate
A good executor is essential in administering an estate

The executor of a will plays a crucial role in ensuring that the deceased person's wishes are carried out properly and that the estate is administered smoothly. In New South Wales (NSW), Australia, as in many other jurisdictions, certain qualities are desirable in an executor. Here are some key qualities:

  1. Trustworthiness and Integrity:

    • Executors should be individuals with high moral and ethical standards.

    • They must be trusted to act in the best interests of the deceased and the beneficiaries.


  1. Organizational and Administrative Skills:

    • Estate administration involves a significant amount of paperwork, legal documents, and financial transactions. An executor should be organized and capable of managing these tasks efficiently.


  1. Communication Skills:

    • Executors need to communicate effectively with beneficiaries, legal professionals, financial institutions, and other relevant parties.

    • Clear communication helps to prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone involved is kept informed of the process.

Legal and Financial Knowledge:

  • While not mandatory, having a basic understanding of legal and financial matters can be beneficial for an executor. Executors often work closely with legal professionals to navigate the probate process and manage the distribution of assets.

Availability and Commitment:

  • Administering an estate can be time-consuming. An executor should be willing and able to commit the necessary time and effort to fulfill their responsibilities promptly.

Impartiality and Fairness:

  • Executors must act impartially and treat all beneficiaries fairly, regardless of personal relationships.

  • Being unbiased and avoiding favoritism helps to prevent disputes among beneficiaries.

Problem-Solving Skills:

  • Unexpected challenges may arise during the estate administration process. An executor should be capable of making sound decisions and resolving issues that may arise.


Patience and Empathy:

  • Dealing with the emotional aspects of the probate process requires patience and empathy. Executors should be understanding and supportive, especially when working with grieving family members.


Willingness to Seek Professional Advice:

  • Executors are not expected to be experts in all areas of estate administration. A good executor is willing to seek advice from professionals, such as lawyers, accountants, and financial advisors, when needed.


Attention to Detail:

  • Small oversights can lead to significant issues in estate administration. An executor should pay close attention to detail to ensure that all legal requirements are met and the estate is distributed accurately.


It's important to note that the role of an executor is a serious responsibility, and individuals appointed to this position should carefully consider their ability to fulfill these duties. In some cases, individuals may choose to appoint a professional executor, such as a solicitor or a trustee company, to ensure that the estate is managed competently.


By Melanie Palmer

Ph: 02 4869 1392

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