Can I appoint multiple personal representatives in my will?

Full question:

Can there be more than one personal representative(executor) ie i wish joe doe and jane doe as my personal representative(executors)?

  • Category: Wills and Estates
  • Subcategory: Executors and Administrators
  • Date:
  • State: New Mexico

Answer:

In New Mexico, you can appoint more than one personal representative or executor in your will. However, there are important considerations to address:

  • Define how decisions will be made between the co-personal representatives.
  • Clarify whether both signatures are required for all legal documents and transactions.
  • Determine if one can act independently or if both must agree.
  • Establish a method for resolving disagreements.
  • Consider what happens if one representative cannot serve, such as due to death or refusal.

It’s common to name one person as the primary executor and another as an alternate. Additionally, an executor can hire help, like a law firm, to assist with their duties.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

If you have two executors, they must work together to manage the estate. They share responsibilities and must make decisions jointly unless specified otherwise in the will. This can lead to delays if they disagree on certain matters. However, having two executors can also provide checks and balances, ensuring that decisions are made fairly.