What is an executor?
An executor is the person named in a will to carry out the instructions in that will and help settle the estate.

What is a Personal Representative?
A personal representative is the broader term for the person responsible for administering the estate, and it can mean either an executor or an administrator. Wisconsin uses this term. Choosing a Personal Representative. 

What is an Administrator?
An administrator is the person appointed by the court when there is no will, or no one named in the will is able to serve.

What are the things to consider in a Last Will and Testament, and what makes it legal?
A Last Will and Testament should clearly name your beneficiaries, personal representative, guardians for minor children if needed, and how you want your property handled; to be legally valid, it generally must be in writing, signed, and properly witnessed under state law.   Additional Information.

Are there things that should be considered when deciding beneficiaries?
Yes — beneficiaries should be chosen carefully based on your family situation, financial goals, and whether anyone needs extra protection because of age, disability, or public benefits. It is also important to review beneficiary designations regularly and keep them consistent with the rest of your estate plan. Choosing beneficiaries.

What are guardians?
A guardian in a Last Will is the person a parent names to care for a minor child if both parents are no longer able to do so. The guardian may be responsible for the child’s day-to-day care, education, medical decisions, and overall welfare, although a separate person may handle the child’s money or inheritance if the will creates that role.  In practical terms, naming a guardian lets you express your choice to the court ahead of time, which can help avoid uncertainty and family conflict. If no guardian is named and one is needed, the court decides who should serve based on the child’s best interests.
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Can Wills be Contested?
Yes. A will can be contested, but only by someone with a legal interest in the estate and only on recognized grounds, such as lack of capacity, undue influence, improper execution, or a more recent valid will. In Wisconsin, a challenger must generally file an objection in probate court and explain the legal reason the will should not be admitted.  A will usually cannot be overturned just because someone is unhappy with the distribution. If a contest succeeds, the court may admit an earlier valid will, or if none exists, the estate may pass under intestacy law.
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Disclaimer
The information provided on these pages is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to recommend or endorse any specific estate plan, investment strategy, or tax plan. Because every person’s situation is unique, you should always consult with qualified attorneys, financial advisors, and accountants to develop a plan tailored to your individual needs.