Wills Q&A Part 2: Executors, Probate, And Common Misconceptions

• Published date: 21 July 2025
• Subject Matter: Family and Matrimonial, Wills/ Intestacy/ Estate Planning
• Law Firm: Rothera Bray
• Author: Charlotte Pinkham

In Part 1, we covered why a Will is important and what to include. Now let's talk about what happens after your Will is written, and how to make sure it's carried out properly.

In Part 2 of my series addressing top questions I'm asked about Wills, I cover executors, what probate is and how to get started making your Will.

What do Executors do?

Your Executors are the people responsible for:

• registering your death
• arranging your funeral
• managing your assets and debts
• paying any Inheritance Tax
• distributing your estate

You can name up to four Executors. They can be:

• family members
• friends
• solicitors
• even your beneficiaries (yes, they can be both!)

I have a Will in place, so does that mean my estate doesn't have to go through probate?

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