At first, appointing two people to serve as co-executors may sound like a good idea. Parents sometimes want to “be fair” by naming multiple children, or someone might think sharing the job will make things easier. In practice, though, co-executors often create unnecessary complications.
Here are the most common reasons to reconsider:
- Every signature is required.
Co-executors must act together, which means both have to sign paperwork, court filings, real estate and financial documents. Something as simple as opening an estate bank account or selling property can stall if one person is out of town, unresponsive, or disagrees. - Disagreements slow everything down.
If co-executors don’t see eye-to-eye, the probate process can grind to a halt. Courts may even need to step in to resolve disputes, which creates extra costs and delays for the estate. - Unequal workloads lead to resentment.
Often, one co-executor ends up doing most of the work — handling paperwork, dealing with lawyers, meeting deadlines — while the other is less involved. This imbalance can cause tension within families. - It complicates an already stressful process.
Probate is challenging enough without adding extra layers of coordination. A single responsible executor, with a backup named in case they can’t serve, is usually the smoother and more effective option.
Co-executors can make probate harder, not easier. Naming one capable executor and a backup (alternate) is usually the best way to protect your estate and your family.
Why You Should Always Name a Backup Executor in Your Will
When you write a will, choosing an executor is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. But many people stop at just one name, which can cause serious problems later. Life doesn’t always go as planned. Your chosen executor could become ill, move away, or decide they’re not able to take on the responsibility. If that happens and you haven’t named a backup, the court may step in and appoint someone you wouldn’t have chosen.
A backup executor, sometimes called an alternate, is simply the person who steps in if your first choice can’t serve. They have all the same duties: filing your will with the court, managing property, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to your beneficiaries. It’s not just a title — it’s a legal role with real authority.
Why It Matters
Even if you’re confident in your choice of executor, life happens. Common reasons a backup becomes necessary include:
- Your executor passes away or becomes incapacitated
- They’re hard to reach or relocate during probate
- Health issues or personal obligations keep them from serving
- They decide they’re not up for the responsibility
- A court disqualifies them
Naming an alternate helps avoid delays, disputes, and stress for your loved ones.
How to Choose Wisely
Your backup shouldn’t just be someone you like — they need to be capable of handling the responsibility. Look for someone who is organized, financially responsible, patient, and able to communicate clearly with family members and attorneys. It’s also important to ask them directly if they’re willing to serve.
Keep It Clear
Your will should use precise language when naming an alternate. Include their full legal name, state the order of succession (who’s first, who’s next), and update your documents if circumstances change. Clear instructions make the process smoother and reduce the chance of confusion or court involvement.
Protect Your Wishes
No one wants to imagine their plans going wrong, but a good estate plan accounts for the unexpected. Naming a backup executor ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are spared unnecessary difficulties.
At Emily A. Bohls, PLLC, we guide clients through every detail of their estate plan, including naming reliable executors and alternates. If you’d like to review your will or update your executor choices, we’d be glad to help. Reach out today to get started.
