Edward Olkovich Law
Last Reviewed October 2024
As an executor, you are named in a person’s will as their legal personal representative. In some jurisdictions, executors are referred to as fiduciaries or personal representatives. Executors are also called estate trustees with a will in Ontario. Your authority comes from being named in a will and becomes effective when a person dies. A court then may confirm your appointment as executor.
I’m an executor – now what?
You should know this about being an executor:
- statistics show most people have no idea what to expect
- every estate is different
- the majority of estates progress smoothly
- be careful, some situations can become dangerous
- your first step should be to get experienced legal advice.
You do not need special skills. You can hire estate lawyers, accountants and other professionals. They can help with some estate tasks and advise you. Anything you can do now to prepare yourself will reduce your stress. If you are handling an estate, take steps to protect yourself. It is never too early to get advice from an experienced estate lawyer. Before you make any commitments you may later regret, request a consultation.
Edward Olkovich, Certified Specialist, Estates and Trust Law
