Executor Disputes and Removal
Executor disputes can arise when concerns develop about how an estate is being managed, whether decisions are being made properly or if the executor is meeting their legal obligations. This page outlines common issues that lead to disagreements, what information may be relevant when assessing an executor’s conduct and how Law Tram provides a secure and obligation-free way to connect with licensed Australian lawyers who can explain your options.
What can you do if an executor isn’t doing their job?
An executor is responsible for administering a deceased person’s estate according to their will. But sometimes, executors delay the process, act unfairly, mishandle funds, or refuse to communicate with beneficiaries. In other cases, beneficiaries disagree on who should be the executor, or someone appointed may no longer be suitable to carry out the role.
When executor disputes arise, the court can be asked to step in. It may remove the executor and appoint someone else, often a beneficiary, solicitor, or the Public Trustee.
Law Tram connects you with lawyers who can assess your situation and explain whether the executor can be removed, challenged, or held to account.
Law Tram can assist with executor issues, including:
- Assessing whether an executor is breaching their legal duties
- Advising on delays in estate administration and how to address them
- Helping beneficiaries who are being left out or ignored
- Responding to unfair or dishonest behaviour by an executor
- Applying to remove and replace an executor through court
- Supporting executors who are facing pressure or need legal guidance
- Resolving disputes between multiple executors
- Advising on alternatives, such as appointing an independent administrator
Why choose Law Tram
- Connect with lawyers who understand disputes involving executor conduct
- Confidential platform to outline your concerns and ask questions
- Guidance on what information or documents may be relevant
- No obligation to engage any lawyer you speak with
- Lawyers help you understand the legal considerations involved
How it works
Confidential and Secure Questionnaire
Start by completing our secure online questionnaire. This step allows you to provide essential details about your legal matter and financial circumstances.
Confidential Legal Snapshots
Law Tram’s advanced technology generates a confidential legal brief summarising your case while keeping your personal details private.
Review by Licensed Australian Lawyers
Your confidential legal snapshot is shared with our network of vetted lawyers who review your case to determine how they can assist.
Connect with a Lawyer
If a lawyer believes they can help, they will initiate a chat with you through the Law Tram platform. Your contact details remain private unless you choose to share them.
No Obligation
You’re under no pressure to retain any lawyer unless you’re confident in their ability to assist. Law Tram empowers you to make informed decisions.
What others are saying
Real experiences from people who used Law Tram for estate-related matters:
Take the first step toward resolution
Law Tram offers a secure, efficient and supportive way to connect with lawyers who understand the legal issues involved in executor disputes and potential removal. Whether your concerns relate to delays, financial mismanagement, conflict between beneficiaries or questions about an executor’s impartiality, our platform helps you access tailored legal guidance before you decide how to proceed.
Take the first step with clarity and peace of mind by starting your free online consultation with Law Tram now.
Frequently Asked Questions
An executor must act in the best interests of the estate and beneficiaries. Duties include collecting assets, paying debts, and distributing the estate according to the will.
Yes. If the executor is not acting properly, a court may remove them and appoint someone else.
Yes. A will can appoint multiple executors. Disputes may arise if they don’t agree on how the estate should be handled.
If an executor is unwilling or unable to perform their role, a court application may be made to appoint someone else.
Yes. Executors can seek legal guidance to ensure they meet their responsibilities and avoid personal liability.
Estate accounts, correspondence, copies of the will, timelines of delays and any concerns about decision-making can help a lawyer assess the situation.
It depends on the extent of the delay and its impact. A lawyer can explain the general circumstances where courts may consider replacing an executor.
No. Executor disputes focus on how the estate is being administered, not the contents of the will itself. A lawyer can outline the differences and what each process involves.