Top estate planning and probate attorney Bobby Sawyer founder of Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC pinpoints key mistakes estate managers should avoid. For more information please visit https://www.jandspllc.com
-- Estate Planning Attorney Bobby Sawyer has shared critical warning signs that trustees or executors should recognize when managing an estate and emphasized the importance of seeking professional legal guidance to avoid costly mistakes and litigation.
For more information please visit https://www.jandspllc.com
The founder of the Fort Mill, SC-based law firm Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC, explained that estate managers refusing to share a will with beneficiaries could face serious legal challenges.
"A will is not a secret to be guarded by the estate manager," Sawyer said. "Unless explicitly restricted by the documents, beneficiaries requesting a copy of the will should have access to the entire estate plan."
Sawyer also highlighted the importance of transparency and communication throughout the estate management process, noting that failure to do so can breed mistrust among beneficiaries and lead to unnecessary disputes.
Failing to handle tax obligations or liabilities is another common mistake among estate managers, according to Sawyer. "Tax issues inevitably arise, such as filing the decedent's final income tax return," he explained. "Negotiating debts for less than the owed amount can trigger tax inquiries, and large gifts made before someone’s death often draw additional scrutiny from both beneficiaries and tax authorities."
Sawyer pointed out that paying beneficiaries before addressing debts and liabilities is one of the most dangerous errors an estate manager can make. "Debt obligations come first," he stated. "If you pay beneficiaries first and then find there’s not enough left to cover taxes or outstanding debts, you could face legal action, and it might even come out of your own pocket."
To fulfill their responsibilities effectively, Sawyer advised estate managers to maintain detailed records, communicate openly with beneficiaries, and prioritize obligations according to legal and financial requirements. He also stressed the importance of seeking legal advice early on.
"An estate manager should not hesitate to consult an Estate Planning attorney if they are overwhelmed, unsure of their responsibilities, or simply guessing their way through the process," Sawyer said.
He concluded: "The role of an estate manager is about more than just distributing assets. It’s about honoring a legacy, avoiding unnecessary conflict, and ensuring everything is done properly. With the right guidance, estate managers can carry out their duties confidently and effectively."
For further guidance and support, Bobby Sawyer and his team at Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC, offer personalized consultations to assist estate managers with the probate process and estate planning matters.
Source: http://RecommendedExperts.biz
Contact Info:
Name: Bobby Sawyer
Email: Send Email
Organization: Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC
Address: 1184 Springmaid Ave suite 201, Fort Mill, SC 29708, USA
Phone: (803) 233-6777
Website: https://www.jandspllc.com
Release ID: 89147377
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