Naming an executor in your will is an essential step in estate planning—but sometimes, one isn’t enough. In Georgia, you can name co-executors, also called joint executors, to share the responsibility of managing your estate after death.
But what exactly can co-executors do? And when does it make sense to name more than one?
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is a Co-Executor?
A co-executor is one of two or more people appointed in a will to administer an estate. They have the same legal powers and responsibilities as a sole executor. That means they must work together to:
- File the will with the probate court
- Inventory and secure the estate’s assets
- Pay debts and taxes
- Distribute assets to beneficiaries according to the will
Unless the will says otherwise, co-executors must act jointly—which can slow things down if they disagree or live in different states.
What Can Co-Executors Legally Do?
In Georgia, co-executors can take any action a single executor can—but they must do it together unless the will allows them to act independently.
That includes:
- Opening an estate bank account
- Selling property
- Hiring professionals (e.g., attorneys, accountants)
- Handling creditor claims
- Distributing inheritance to heirs
Any action taken by just one co-executor—if not permitted by the will—may be challenged or reversed in probate court.
Pros of Naming Co-Executors
- Shared workload – Especially helpful for complex or large estates
- Checks and balances – Useful if you want more oversight
- Family harmony – Can prevent one sibling from feeling left out
- Skill diversity – One executor may have legal knowledge, the other financial
Cons of Naming Co-Executors
- Slower decision-making – Joint approval is often required
- Potential for conflict – Disagreements can delay or derail estate administration
- Logistical challenges – Especially if executors live far apart
- Extra paperwork – Some institutions require signatures from all executors
Before naming co-executors, make sure they have a strong working relationship—and that they’re both willing and able to serve.
Can One Co-Executor Act Alone?
Only if the will explicitly authorizes independent action. Otherwise, Georgia law requires joint decision-making and shared responsibility.
If the co-executors disagree and can’t resolve it, a probate judge may need to intervene—or in extreme cases, remove one of them.
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Should You Name Co-Executors?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. You may want co-executors if:
- You have two adult children you want to treat equally
- Your estate includes business assets or complex holdings
- You want one executor to provide oversight or a second opinion
- You’re concerned about fairness or avoiding family disputes
But in many cases, it’s more efficient to name a single executor and a backup (alternate) executor in case your first choice can’t serve.
Let Hurban Law Help You Plan with Confidence
At Hurban Law, LLC, we help Georgia residents build estate plans that work—during life and after. Whether you’re deciding who to name as executor or preparing your will from scratch, we’ll help you make informed decisions that protect your family and avoid unnecessary conflict.
Contact us today to schedule a personalized estate planning consultation.
