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Estate Executors and
Administrators
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Overview Our Expertise The Challenges Sample Case FAQ How We Can Help
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Burrey Law Group Represents Estate Executors and Administrators

Being appointed as the executor or administrator of an estate is an honor, but it’s also a legal obligation that can quickly become overwhelming. From navigating probate to handling creditor claims and distributing assets, you’re expected to manage every detail while balancing the expectations of grieving family members and the requirements of California law.

At Burrey Law Group, we support estate representatives through every stage of the process, offering clear guidance, responsive counsel, and experienced advocacy when disputes arise

Guidance You Can Rely On

Whether you’re named in a will (executor) or appointed by the court (administrator), you’re now responsible for:

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Gathering and valuing estate assets
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Notifying beneficiaries and creditors
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Paying valid debts and taxes
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Filing court documents
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Distributing property according to the will, or state law if there’s no will
This process is legally complex and emotionally charged.
We ensure you’re equipped to handle it all with confidence and care.
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When Disputes Arise

Even with the best intentions, executors and administrators may face:

  • Accusations of mismanagement or bias
  • Heirs contesting the validity of the will
  • Family disputes over distributions
  • Legal action from creditors or omitted heirs
  • Uncertainty around ambiguous or outdated documents

Our team helps resolve disputes efficiently—whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation—and protects your role throughout the process

Illustrative Example

Our client was the executor of her late mother’s estate. Her mother hadn’t followed all the legal formalities when drafting her will, leading to one sibling contesting its validity. This created immense stress and family tension.

We guided our client through the court process, presenting clear and convincing evidence to defend the will’s legitimacy. Our efforts ensured that her mother’s estate was distributed exactly as she intended, bringing our client peace of mind and honoring her mother’s wishes.

Note: This scenario is fictional and provided for illustrative purposes only.

As the Personal Representative, you have a legal obligation to act in the best interest of the estate’s beneficiaries (if there’s a Will) or heirs (if there’s no Will).  These responsibilities are known as your fiduciary duties—and failing to fulfill them properly can lead to personal liability.

Yes. Even well-meaning Personal Representatives can face lawsuits or objections from heirs or beneficiaries who believe the estate is being mismanaged, assets weren’t properly valued, debts were paid improperly, or the distribution plan is wrong. We help you navigate the complex probate procedures correctly to minimize the risk of disputes and can assist in defending your actions if they are challenged.

In most cases, yes. You will typically be required to file an “Inventory and Appraisal” early in the probate process, listing all estate assets and their values. Before the estate can be closed and assets distributed, you will usually need to prepare and file a formal “Probate Accounting” with the court and provide copies to the beneficiaries/heirs. We help you prepare thorough, legally compliant accountings to maintain transparency and avoid disputes.

You can resign as Personal Representative, but it requires following specific legal steps. You can’t just abandon the role.  We can guide you through the necessary court procedures for resignation and assist with the transition to a successor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some of your burning questions have been answered.

Get in touch Here to Help You Handle Every Detail

If you’ve been named as executor or administrator—or find yourself in over your head—Burrey Law Group is here to help. We walk beside you through every step of the probate process with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

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