Are there any restrictions on what an executor can do?
The job of an executor is to carry out the instructions of a will and care for the assets of an estate. In Washington, an executor has a legal responsibility to the estate. This includes an obligation to distribute the estate’s assets according to the instructions of the will and to act in the best interests of the estate’s beneficiaries. In Washington, an executor has certain restrictions on what they can do. An executor must be granted authority by the court to perform certain functions such as selling or transferring assets. They must also follow the laws governing the probate process such as filing a will or other documents when necessary. An executor must properly complete all forms and applications. In Washington, an executor cannot self-deal with the estate’s assets or use them for their own benefit. They cannot distribute assets before the court has given them permission. They must follow the instructions of the will and consult with counsel if they are not sure how to proceed. An executor’s actions must always be in the best interests of the estate’s beneficiaries and they cannot act in bad faith. Finally, an executor cannot change the terms of the will. They must carry out the instructions given and make sure the estate’s assets are distributed according to the wishes of the deceased. If an executor fails to do any of these things or acts in bad faith, they may be held accountable by the court.
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