It’s often a matter of personal preference. Naming co-executors can be beneficial when an estate is large, involves complex assets, or has numerous beneficiaries. It can also give multiple loved ones a voice in administration or provide additional checks and balances.
However, co-executors can also complicate administration. If unanimous consent is required, disagreements may delay transactions, increase probate costs, and postpone distributions to beneficiaries.
Consider the relationship between your proposed co-executors before naming them. For example, appointing two children who frequently disagree or have a strained relationship could create unnecessary conflict during administration.
An estate planning attorney can help determine whether co-executors, a sole executor, or a professional fiduciary best fits your circumstances. A professional fiduciary may be particularly appropriate when you want a neutral party to administer the estate and avoid the appearance of favoring one family member over another.
