Salt Lake City, UT asked in Estate Planning and Probate for Utah

Q: My mom passed away we then find out her attorney is executor of her will. Can we fire him?

She was always nervous could never be alone from age 2. She sighned that not knowing what it meant. He can sell everything including the home property everything inside and out. Mom wouldn’t have willing do this we need help please.

Related Topics:
1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: If the attorney serving as the executor of your mother's will is acting in a manner that raises concerns, beneficiaries do have options. Generally, an executor can be removed by the court for valid reasons such as mismanagement of estate assets, failure to comply with the will's terms, or a conflict of interest. To initiate this process, you would need to file a petition with the probate court explaining the reasons why the executor should be removed.

Understanding and proving that your mother signed the will under duress or without understanding its implications can be challenging but not impossible. Gathering evidence such as witness testimonies, medical records, or expert evaluations regarding her mental state at the time of signing can support your case. This evidence would be crucial in contesting the will or the appointment of the executor.

Seeking legal advice from an attorney who specializes in probate or estate law is crucial. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation, help you understand your options, and represent you in court if necessary. The process can be complex and emotionally taxing, but legal support can navigate these challenges and work towards a resolution that honors your mother's true intentions.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.