What is the role of a Will Executor?

What is the role of a Will Executor?

The role of a Will Executor is to put the wishes of the will-maker into effect by:

  • Collecting assets,
  • Paying liabilities and
  • Distributing the will-maker’s property to those he or she wished to benefit (beneficiaries).

Almost all Will Executors are trusted family friends or relatives. The remainder provide executorial services in a professional capacity such as solicitors, accountants and financial advisors (professional executors).

Common Disputes related to the Will Executor

Will Disputes Between Executors & Beneficiaries

Disputes between Will Beneficiaries and Executors can arise when the personal interests of an Executor conflict with the duties of the Executor role. The key right of a Will Beneficiary is to have the estate administered in a proper and timely way and to share in the fruits of that administration. If a Will Executor refuses, is unfit to act or is incapable of acting, the court has power to order their removal. 

Learn more about Executor Beneficiaries Disputes

Executors Commission Disputes

A Wills Executor can apply to be paid a commission for their 'pains and trouble' associated with their obligations as Will Executor. This commission is normally a percentage of the estates value and is not automatically granted. Disputes can arise over the amount of commission to be paid to the executor. These disputes can be resolved by the court. 

Learn more about Executor Commission Disputes

Ask our expert Wills & Estates lawyers for advice on the role of Will Executor

Partner Andrew O’Bryan and Senior Associate Carl Wilson are expert Wills & Estates lawyers and can offer free phone/first consultation advice.

Galbally & O’Bryan have offices in MelbourneDandenong and Pakenham and are one of Victoria’s leading Wills & Estates law firms.

Contact us

Or call us on 03 9200 2533

Galbally & O'Bryan Will and Estates Lawyers

 Andrew O'Bryan - Galbally & O'Bryan

Andrew O'Bryan
Galbally & O'Bryan 
Lawyers 
259 William Street 
MELBOURNE VIC 3000 

T (03) 9200 2533 I M 0400 469 704 
aobryan@galballyobryan.com.au 

 

 Carl Wilson - Galbally & O'Bryan

Carl Wilson
Galbally & O'Bryan 
Lawyers 
259 William Street 
MELBOURNE VIC 3000 

T (03) 9200 2533 
cwilson@galballyobryan.com.au 

 

 

Dandenong Office
Shop 9 / 147-151 Foster Street
DANDENONG VIC 3175
T (03) 9769 2510
nglavic@galballyobryan.com.au

 

Pakenham Office
Shop 1, 15 John Street
PAKENHAM VIC 3810
T (03) 5941 7990
pakenham@galballyobryan.com.au

 

The information on this website is of a general nature only and may not reflect recent changes to certain areas of law. It should not be relied upon as a substitute for discussing your situation with a qualified legal practitioner. Contact us for more information.