But in some circumstances, the probate court may require the fiduciary to obtain an executor or administrator bond. An administrator executor, fiduciary, or personal representative bond is a type of court bond required to safeguard the estate and ensure that the wishes of the decedent are carried out.
Unfortunately, the answer to this question is yes, an executor can be held liable. If you have an attorney, ensure that they are a qualified probate attorney. There are many things an Independent Executor should know in order to make sure they fulfill their position properly.
Estates are often left without a bond if the executor does not have one before they die. The person must file with the court for creditors to be notified of the death, and then any claims against the estate must be satisfied. If no creditors come, then there is no need for a bond.
While each state is different, California generally requires your personal representative to be bonded. The only exceptions are when the testator's will expressly waives the requirement (and the court permits this to happen) or all the beneficiaries will agree in writing to waive the bond requirement.
Options to take action. If you think an executor isn't being honest or is otherwise acting improperly, there are steps you can take. First, try to resolve the problem directly with them or their lawyer. If this doesn't work, you may want to seek legal advice.
Given the magnitude of the responsibilities and the intimacy of the role, you may want to name a close friend or relative as executor, someone who fully understands and respects your wishes, as well as those of your beneficiaries, and who might handle your sentimental heirlooms and other property more sensitively than ...
If the executor fails to meet their legal obligations, a beneficiary can sue them for breach of fiduciary duty. If there are multiple beneficiaries, all must agree on whether to sue an executor.
If a transaction is in the best interest of the beneficiaries and the estate and is in line with the decedent's wishes and state law, the executor can sell a property without all beneficiaries approving. The executor has the power to choose the probate lawyer and the real estate broker.
(B) Except as provided in section 2117.061 of the Revised Code, all claims shall be presented within six months after the death of the decedent, whether or not the estate is released from administration or an executor or administrator is appointed during that six-month period.
The statute of limitations to contest a will varies by state and is typically between three months and two years. If the claim involves fraud, the statute of limitations often begins running on the date the fraud is discovered.