What to do about an deceased executor?
Question Details: My mother passed away from mesothilioma 5 years ago. Before her death she was involved in a class action suit. The payout from the suit continued after her death and my step father was made executor of the settlement. My stepfather passed away 6 months ago and my brother and I were named executors of his estate. We just receieved a settlement release in my step fathers name. Before we consult the attorneys involved we would like to know if the settlement issue can be changed to our names or can only a spouse be named as the executor? We have shared equally in the settlement monies, and frankly we all thought the settlement monies were done, but apparently this can continue for years to come. Do we have a legal right to become executors?
It is likely that your mother received a settlement for her injuries and damages that has been paying through these years. When she passed away, the settlement was paid to her husband as her heir. Now that he passed away, you and your brother may be her heirs, or, your stepfather's children may be entitled to his share. Who is entitled to the remaining settlement proceeds depends on the terms of the settlement, your mother's will (if any), your step father's will (if any), and the statute of descent and distribution in your state.
You have not said whether your mother or your stepfather left a will. Usually, people are named executors in a will, but sometimes the terms are used incorrectly. The executors of a will are not the people who receive distributions from the estate. Beneficiaries receive distributions from the estate. The beneficiaries and executors could be the same people, but they don't have to be the same people.
I suggest that you speak with the attorneys involved in your mother's case. Ask if anyone is entitled to settlement proceeds now that your stepfather has passed away. If they tell you "yes," then ask who is entitled to the proceeds and what steps you should take. Those attorneys can probably lead you to the correct procedures and perhaps even refer you to a probate attorney who can help.
It is likely that you will have to open an estate.
