Choosing an executor is one of the most important decisions you make when creating your will. Some people consider naming more than one person — known as co-executors — to share the responsibility. While co-executors can be helpful in certain situations, they can also complicate the probate process, especially under Georgia law.
Here’s what to consider before deciding whether to name co-executors in your will.
What Co-Executors Are and How They Work
Co-executors are two or more people appointed to carry out the terms of your will. They have equal authority and must work together to:
- File the will with probate court
- Collect and manage estate assets
- Pay debts and taxes
- Handle property sales
- Distribute inheritances
- Communicate with beneficiaries
Georgia probate courts require executors to act jointly unless the will specifically allows independent actions.
Learn about executor duties on our Georgia Probate Lawyer page.
When Naming Co-Executors Can Be Helpful
Co-executors may make sense for some families, especially when responsibilities or relationships benefit from shared authority.
When it works well:
- Two adult children want equal responsibility
- A spouse and an adult child work well together
- One executor has financial skills while another has legal or organizational strengths
- You want checks and balances to prevent mismanagement
Co-executors can also give heirs confidence that no one person has too much control.
Drawbacks of Naming Co-Executors
While the idea may feel fair, naming co-executors often causes delays, extra paperwork, and conflict.
Common challenges include:
Delays in Decision-Making
Every major decision must be agreed upon and signed by both executors. If they disagree, the estate stalls.
Complications with Financial Institutions
Banks, mortgage lenders, and investment firms often require signatures from all executors — causing administrative backups.
Increased Probate Costs
Multiple executors can mean more legal guidance, more filings, and more time in probate.
Potential for Conflict
Sibling rivalry, communication issues, or distrust can derail the process.
Confusion Over Roles
If the will isn’t clear about responsibilities, Georgia courts will expect equal action from each co-executor.
When You Should Avoid Co-Executors
Co-executors may not be the best approach if:
- Your children do not get along
- Executors live in different states
- One person is significantly more capable
- Your estate includes real estate or a business that requires fast decisions
- You want probate to move quickly
In these situations, naming one capable executor with a backup successor executor is often more effective.
Best Practice: Choose One Executor, Name Successors
Many Georgia estate planning attorneys recommend appointing:
- One primary executor, and
- One or two successor executors (who serve only if the primary cannot)
This approach avoids delays while still providing a clear backup plan.
Learn more on our Estate Planning Services page.
What If You Still Want Co-Executors?
If co-executors feel necessary, you can reduce conflicts by:
- Stating in your will that each co-executor may act independently
- Using clear instructions on roles and responsibilities
- Naming a professional executor (such as a firm) as a third co-executor
- Talking with your co-executors ahead of time
Customized drafting can solve many potential problems.
Final Thoughts
Naming co-executors may feel fair, but it often adds complexity and delay to Georgia probate. For most families, choosing a single, capable executor — with a well-chosen successor — is the most efficient and effective approach.
If you need help selecting an executor or updating your estate plan, Hurban Law can help you create a clear and conflict-free will that reflects your wishes.
