The executor of a will handles the estate of someone who has died, including paying the estate’s debts and taxes and distributing the assets to the beneficiaries. The executor must do this work on time and act in the best interest of the beneficiaries.
But what if you’re a beneficiary waiting for your inheritance, and the executor fails to act? For example, what happens if the executor refuses to distribute property to the beneficiaries? Can the beneficiaries remove the executor and appoint another?
First, consider whether the executor is failing to act or if wrapping up the estate is just taking longer than you’d like. Then, if the amount of time is genuinely unreasonable, consider whether the executor’s actions or inactions warrant removal. If they do, you can petition the probate court to remove the executor or sue the executor for damages.
