How Can Beneficiaries Communicate With Executors in Washington?

If you stand to inherit assets from a deceased loved one, you may need to interact with the executor of the Will. This might be someone you know personally, such as a close family member. However, it might also be someone whom you may not be as close to – and it could be challenging to communicate with them. What should you do if you’re having trouble speaking with the executor of a Will? Can a probate lawyer in Spokane help?

What to Do if an Executor Is Not Replying to You 

A common issue for many beneficiaries is a lack of communication from executors. For example, you might have sent the executor multiple emails about a concern about the Will. Perhaps you also left numerous messages on their answering machine. This can be frustrating, and it may also represent a violation of the executor’s legal fiduciary duties to you.

Even though this situation can lead to legal action, it is best to try alternative strategies before going to court. With help from a lawyer, you may be able to draft official warnings that catch the attention of the executor. When an executor sees that you’re working with a lawyer, they may be more inclined to communicate effectively with you (or your attorney).

If this approach fails, you may go to court and ask the court to force or “compel” the executor to start communicating with you. The exact details of these court orders depend on what type of information you are trying to obtain from the executor.

Why Communicating With an Executor Is So Important 

Executors are legally required to communicate with beneficiaries in various ways. First, they are required to locate beneficiaries named in a Will. These beneficiaries may not be easy to find, especially if they have moved to a different county, state, or nation. However, the executor is still expected to make a reasonable effort to track beneficiaries down. If you discover that you have been named in a Will and the executor has not notified you, there is a clear urgency for you to get in touch with the executor as soon as possible.

An executor is also required to keep beneficiaries updated about any major changes or decisions during the probate process. In some cases, the executor must notify the beneficiaries before selling property – especially real estate. They may also need to notify beneficiaries if the validity of the Will has been contested or if a more recent Will has emerged.

Can a Probate Lawyer in Spokane Help Me Communicate With an Executor? 

A probate lawyer in Spokane could help you communicate effectively with the executor of a Will. These communications can be critical if you have valid concerns about the Will. Perhaps you believe that the Will is fraudulent, or maybe you know where to find missing assets named in the Will. Whatever the case may be, Moulton Law Offices can help you navigate the probate process with confidence. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your options in more detail.

Sources: 

bentoncountywa.gov/pview.aspx?id=55556&catid=4

investopedia.com/terms/e/executor.asp