The Executor's Guide: How to Administer an Estate Under a Will

by Linda Kirby

Overview

You have been named the executor of a will by a friend or family member. Are you prepared to meet the challenge and do you know how to avoid personal liability? Thousands of individuals each year face the daunting and often painful task of settling the estate of a loved one, and even with professional guidance from attorneys, accountants, and financial advisors, they are often ill-equipped to deal with many of the tasks necessary to manage and settle an estate—and may put themselves at serious financial risk.

The Executor's Guide is the definitive instruction manual for anyone administering an estate under a will. Featuring step-by-step instructions, worksheets, checklists, and timetables, The Executor's Guide takes the reader through the entire process-from the time of death to the final closing of the estate. The Executor's Guide explains the full range of roles and responsibilities of the executor, including reading the will, hiring and supervising the attorney, dealing with court proceedings, notifying those who are entitled to property, finding and valuing assets, settling with creditors, filing taxes, and distributing the assets. Unique and highly practical elements include a comprehensive Summary of Assets (from Annuities to Videos), a glossary of essential terms, and a series of key questions to ask your attorney. Written in highly accessible language by an expert in the field, The Executor's Guide is at once authoritative and user-friendly—an essential resource for any family.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780275982034
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	05/30/2004
Pages:	336
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.75(d)

About the Author

LINDA KIRBY is an attorney in Wichita, Kansas, who, since 1988, has focused her practice on probate administration, estate planning, pre-marital agreements, wills, trusts, and estate planning. Formerly Professor of Law at the University of Richmond, she has taught at Newman University, Wichita State University, and in continuing education programs for the Wichita Bar Association, Certified Financial Planners, and Certified Life Underwriters.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Introduction to the Duties of the Executor
The Will
Opening Court Proceedings
Identifying All Interested Persons
Guardians, Conservators, Custodians, and Trustees
Inventory and Valuation of Assets
Management of Assets
Sale of Assets
Claims and Demands on Decedent's Estate
Taxes
Special Considerations
Final Settlement, Distribution of Assets and Discharge of the Executor
Probate Timetable
Timetable for All Estates
Proposed Method for Distribution of Personal and Household Items
Worksheets and Forms
Summary of Assets
Questions to Ask Your Attorney
Glossary
Index