Should Your Children Be Your Executor

Naming your children as executors, especially while they are still young, is something worth thinking about carefully. Being an executor is a big responsibility, and it can be a real weight to place on someone at a difficult time.

We generally have conversations with clients about who they wish to nominate, particularly where younger children are being named as substitutes. It is really important for them to understand what the process involves.

We also explain the role that we play if something happens to you. We have an important part in supporting the executors through the administration of the estate, and we can be there for them from start to finish. Even where the children are, say, 18 or 19, which would otherwise be extremely daunting for them, it is our job to make sure the process is one we can work through together, so that they feel comfortable with it.

Many people have a preference for their children as substitute executors. What we then talk about is whether it is appropriate to have someone a little older alongside one or more of the children, someone they can turn to and work with, or whether they are comfortable relying on the solicitor's assistance to help the executor navigate the process.

We have prepared this article to share general information. For personal advice, book a consultation with our team.