The person designated as the backup to you in the will would be appointed to serve if you decline to serve as executor of an estate.

Q: Let’s say someone — we’ll call him “me” — has been named executor for an elderly friend, even after telling him I don’t want the job. He has no one else to give the position to, no relatives or friends he trusts. But I simply don’t want the hassle. I’ve encouraged my friend to contact his bank to see if they offer executor services, but he hasn’t done so. Do I have any options, if he passes without changing his will, to responsibly get out of serving as executor? After he passes, can I contact his bank or my bank and ask them to take over?

ESTATE ISSUES: What to do if a live-in aide refuses to leave when the contract ends

A: After your friend’s........

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