
What does an executor have to do in Scotland?
A step-by-step checklist from registering the death to the final accounts, with the key deadlines.
Read the guideMany executors are happy to do most of the work themselves, but want a solicitor on hand for the parts that carry risk. We can answer a single question, check your paperwork, or deal with one difficult part of the executry.

You do not have to choose between doing everything yourself and handing everything over. As an executor, you are personally responsible for dealing with the estate correctly, and a short piece of advice at the right moment can prevent a costly mistake.
Our executor's checklist sets out every stage of the executry, and our guide on the time limits for claims against an estate explains the deadlines that matter. Joint bank accounts catch many executors out, so see our guide to joint accounts after a death. If you decide you would rather hand over the whole executry, see estate administration.

A step-by-step checklist from registering the death to the final accounts, with the key deadlines.
Read the guide
What counts as a reasonable delay, what you are entitled to, the steps to take, and when the court can remove an executor.
Read the guide
Declining before you start, resigning later, the rules for a sole executor and the alternatives.
Read the guideYes. You do not have to instruct us to deal with the whole executry. We can advise on a single issue, check a document, or deal with one part of the process.
Yes. Checking an inventory before it is lodged is one of the most common things executors ask us to do, and it helps avoid the application being returned by the court.
Proper legal costs incurred by an executor in dealing with the estate are normally paid from the estate, not by the executor personally.
You can usually decline before you start, or resign later, but a sole executor must make sure someone else takes over first. We can explain the options, including staying on and letting us do the work.
Call us on 0141 471 9166 and tell us a little about the estate. One of our executry solicitors will talk you through the next steps. Your first appointment is free and there is no obligation.
If you can, have the death certificate, the will and any recent bank or pension statements to hand. If you do not have them yet, that is fine. Finding them is part of what we do. Our guides explain what a husband, wife or civil partner inherits and what happens to a joint bank account.
The quickest way to reach us
0141 471 9166Call to book your free first appointment, at one of our offices or by phone.
Please note that legal aid is not available for this service.