No Next Of Kin Or Estranged Family
What if no one in the family wants to be the executor?
Short answer
Anyone can decline the role. If all family members decline, the court can appoint a professional fiduciary — a licensed individual who manages estates professionally. The cost comes from the estate. Ask the probate court how to request a professional fiduciary appointment.
What this usually means
Anyone can decline the role. If all family members decline, the court can appoint a professional fiduciary — a licensed individual who manages estates professionally. The cost comes from the estate. Ask the probate court how to request a professional fiduciary appointment.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county phone numbers for coroner, vital records, and local offices.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.