Estate planning is a critical part of protecting your family’s future. One of the most important decisions you will make during this process is how to choose an executor for your estate. This person will be responsible for managing everything you leave behind when you pass away. They will make sure your wishes are followed and that your loved ones are taken care of according to your will. At Titus Hillis Reynolds Love, we help clients through these decisions every day and understand how emotional and personal they can be.

What Does an Executor Do?

Before addressing how to choose an executor, it’s imperative to understand what this role involves.
An executor is the person who handles your affairs after your death. Their job is to gather your assets, pay your debts and taxes, and distribute what remains according to your will. This can include selling property, handling bank accounts, filing paperwork with the court, and communicating with your beneficiaries.

This is an enormous responsibility, which is why choosing an executor should not be taken lightly.
The person you name will need to be organized, trustworthy, and capable of handling delicate financial matters and family dynamics.

Who Can Serve as an Executor?

Many people choose a close family member such as a spouse, adult child, or sibling. Others may name a trusted friend or a professional, such as an attorney or accountant. In Oklahoma, your executor must be at least eighteen years old and mentally competent. They should not have any felony convictions.

You can name more than one person to serve as co-executor if you feel that more than one person is necessary to help carry out your wishes. However, it is important to consider how well those individuals work together. At Titus Hillis Reynolds Love, we often help clients think through how family members might respond emotionally to being named (or not named) as executor.

What Should You Consider When Deciding how to Choose an Executor?

There are many factors to consider when deciding how to choose an executor of a will. Think about who is the most responsible person you know. You want someone who will follow your instructions, pay attention to deadlines, and stay calm under pressure. Managing an estate is a serious task, and emotions can run high, especially when family members are grieving.

You should also consider the person’s location. While an executor can live in another state, being nearby can make certain tasks easier, like managing property or meeting with local professionals.
If your estate involves a business, real estate, or special assets (like oil and gas interests), you’ll want someone who understands how to manage these matters or is willing to work with professionals who do.

Most importantly, choose someone you trust completely. This person will be handling sensitive information and making important decisions about your money and property. If you have even the smallest concern about their ability to act honestly and fairly, it is best to consider someone else.

Can You Name a Backup Executor?

Yes, and it is a good idea. Life can be unpredictable. The person you name as your executor may be unable or unwilling to serve when the time comes. That is why it is smart to name a backup. This gives your estate a clear path forward without delay or confusion.

At Titus Hillis Reynolds Love, our estate planning attorneys often recommend that clients choose a backup executor and talk with both individuals to make sure they are willing to take on the role.

What Happens If You Do Not Choose an Executor?

If you don’t choose an executor, the court will decide who should take on the role. This may not be the person you would have chosen. It could also lead to family conflict or delays in settling your estate.
That is why it is so important to make this decision while you can and include it in your will.

Planning ahead gives you peace of mind and helps your family avoid confusion and unnecessary stress. It also gives your chosen executor time to prepare and ask questions while you are still here to offer guidance.

What Should You Talk About With Your Executor?

Once you have made your decision, sit down and talk with your chosen executor. Let them know that you’re trusting them with an important job. Explain what your wishes are and where your important documents are kept. If you have specific instructions, such as how you want personal items distributed, share those details.

Talking openly now helps prevent misunderstandings later. It also makes your executor’s job easier when the time comes. At Titus Hillis Reynolds Love, we often help guide these conversations and make sure everyone understands what to expect throughout the process.

When Should You Update Your Executor Choice?

As with other parts of your estate plan, you should review your choice of executor when life changes happen, including divorce, the death of your chosen executor, a falling out, or a new relationship that affects your trust and wishes.

Keeping your estate plan up-to-date ensures that the person named in your will is still the right choice. If you are unsure whether your plan needs to be updated, our skilled and knowledgeable estate attorneys at Titus Hillis Reynolds Love can help you review it.

Why Choosing the Right Executor Matters

Choosing an executor is more than just a legal step; it’s a deeply personal decision that affects the people you care about most. The right person will carry out your wishes, manage your estate with care, and help your family through a difficult time.

An unprepared or unwilling executor can cause delays, conflict, and stress for your loved ones. That’s why taking time to choose wisely now can make all the difference later. With the right support and guidance, this choice can give you peace of mind knowing your affairs are in good hands.

Schedule a Consultation With Titus Hillis Reynolds Love Today

If you’re ready to start your estate plan or need help choosing an executor for your estate, the estate planning attorneys at Titus Hillis Reynolds Love are here to guide you. We understand that these decisions are personal and often emotional. We take the time to listen, explain your options in plain language, and help you feel confident about your plan.

Whether you are wondering how to choose an executor of a will or looking to update an existing plan, our team is ready to assist you. Schedule a consultation with Titus Hillis Reynolds Love today and take the first step toward protecting your legacy and giving your family the clarity they need in the future.