You've been named executor. Here's what to do next.

Your first steps

1. Secure the original will and the home, vehicles and valuables.
2. Order several certified death certificates.
3. Don’t distribute property or pay debts yet, unless they’re urgent and modest, such as utilities that protect the home.
4. Gather recent statements, deeds, titles and insurance policies.
5. Talk with a probate attorney before taking any major action.

Executors who live outside Texas

You can serve as executor of a Texas estate even if you live in another state. Texas requires a nonresident executor to appoint a resident agent to accept legal notices. Jonathan works with out-of-state executors by phone, video and email, and keeps trips to Fort Worth to a minimum.

When a trust is also involved

Many estates include both a will and a trust. Jonathan can help you understand which assets fall under which document, and serve as counsel to you as executor and trustee. See Trust Administration.

Get clear next steps as executor. Schedule a consultation.