Can I Have Multiple Executors for My Will?

If you are in the estate planning process, you may wonder about who to choose your executor. It may not be an easy choice. Perhaps you have multiple children who may be a good fit. Or maybe you have a complicated estate and having more than one executor to carry the load just makes sense in your mind.

The good news is that you can name multiple executors in your will, often referred to as co-executors. Many people choose this option when they want shared responsibility, added oversight, or representation of different sides of the family. However, there are important advantages and drawbacks to consider.

How Co-Executors Work

Co-executors generally have equal authority and must act together when administering the estate. This can include signing documents, managing assets, paying debts, and distributing property. Some states allow a will to give co-executors authority to act independently, but without that language, unanimous or joint action is usually required.

Compensation and Liability

Unless the will states otherwise, each executor may be entitled to compensation under state law. Importantly, each executor carries fiduciary duties and can be held personally liable for mistakes or misconduct. This is true even if another executor caused the issue.

Potential Benefits of Multiple Executors

• Shared workload and expertise. Administering an estate can be time-consuming and complex. Co-executors can divide responsibilities based on strengths. For example, one handles financial matters while another manages real estate or communicates with beneficiaries. This can make the process more efficient and less overwhelming.
• Built-in checks and balances. Having more than one executor reduces the risk of mismanagement, fraud, or unilateral decision-making. Each executor owes a fiduciary duty to the estate, and the presence of a co-executor provides oversight that can help prevent mistakes or abuse of authority.
• Family balance and transparency. In blended families or high-conflict situations, naming co-executors from different branches of the family can reassure beneficiaries that the estate is being handled fairly. This perceived neutrality can reduce suspicion and lower the risk of will contests.
• Continuity and backup. If one executor becomes ill, unavailable, or passes away during probate, a co-executor can continue administering the estate without the need for immediate court intervention or appointment of a replacement.

Possible Challenges of Multiple Executors

• Decision-making delays. Unless the will clearly authorizes independent action, co-executors typically must act jointly. Disagreements can stall asset sales, delay distributions, and extend the probate timeline.
• Increased conflict and litigation risk. Personal tensions between co-executors can escalate into formal disputes, sometimes requiring court involvement.
• Higher administrative costs. Multiple executors may each be entitled to statutory or reasonable compensation, which can significantly increase estate expenses.
• Logistical and legal complications
  When co-executors live in different states, travel, court appearances, and differing availability can complicate administration.

Seek Legal Help

While you might want to have more than one executor in order to avoid hurting someone’s feelings, having more than one representative of your estate can lead to complications.

Have questions? Need advice? Get the help you need from Fort Lauderdale probate litigation lawyer Edward J. Jennings, P.A. can answer your questions about probate. We can help ensure your will is executed according to your wishes. Schedule a consultation by calling 954-764-4330 or filling out the online form.