Sole or Joint Executors?

[WetAugust]

Hi
I'm seeing a solicitor to draw up my Will.

Should I appoint a sole executor or joint executors?

The whole estate ill pass to my son so I planned to make him sole executor but if discharging the duties that fall to an exector is an onerous task, would I be beter to appoint more than one?

Are there any advantages / drawbacks to sole/joint executors?

Thank you

You need to have two executors. I'm assuming that you're a lone parent (otherwise you'd normally appoint your husband as sole executor).

The reason you need two is that if you're leaving everything to your child and he's under 18 at the date of your death, the money will automatically be held in trust for which you need two trustees. The two execs will normally also act as trustees in those circs. You can state that the money is held in trust beyond 18, eg 21 or 25.

Presumably you also wish to appoint a guardian? If so, try to avoid appointing the same person to act as a guardian and executor, partly to avoid potential conflict of interest but also to spread the burden a bit.

If you need any more info, my will writing website is mentioned on my paid for advert over on Classified Small Businesses, titled "5* Will Writing Service Recommended by Mumsnetters"

Thank you Mumblechum - that's been very useful. DS is actually 23 so guradianship won't be an issue.

Yes, I'm happily divorced an exH as an executor is not an option.

I'll take a look at your add on CSB - thanks.