Can an Executor Decide Who Gets What in a Will? Understanding Their Authority in California Probate

In the world of probate, few roles are more important or more misunderstood than that of the executor. In Los Angeles County, where probate real estate and inheritance disputes are increasingly common, one question comes up again and again:

“Can the executor just decide who gets what?”

The short answer is: No, not exactly. The executor holds a powerful position, but they are bound by law to follow the instructions in the will and California probate code. They can’t simply distribute assets as they see fit.

Let’s break down the executor’s responsibilities, what power they actually have, and what happens if a will is unclear or challenged.

What Is an Executor's Job?

In California, the executor (or personal representative) is legally responsible for managing the deceased’s estate. That includes:

• Filing the will with the probate court

• Notifying creditors and beneficiaries

• Paying off debts and taxes

• Managing real estate and personal property

• Distributing assets to the rightful heirs

Their role is not to interpret the will based on what they think is fair — their job is to execute the instructions written in the document.

When the Will Is Clear, So Is Their Role

If the will explicitly states who should receive specific assets like "My daughter gets the home on Melrose Avenue" or "Split my bank account evenly between my sons" the executor must follow those instructions precisely.

In Los Angeles County, courts take the will’s language seriously. Executors have no authority to override or modify bequests unless:

• The will gives them discretionary power, or

• All beneficiaries agree to change the distribution voluntarily

If the will is clear, there’s very little wiggle room.

What If the Will Is Vague or Doesn’t Name Specific Assets?

Here’s where it gets more complicated.

If the will says something general like “divide my estate equally among my children,” but doesn’t say who gets what, the executor has some administrative discretion.

They might:

• Sell property and divide proceeds

• Assign items of similar value to each heir

• Facilitate a buyout agreement among beneficiaries

Still, they must act fairly and transparently, keeping accurate records and giving all heirs the chance to agree or object to any division.

Can the Executor Favor One Beneficiary Over Another?

Absolutely not.

The executor has a fiduciary duty to act in the best interest of the estate and all beneficiaries equally. Favoring one heir, delaying distributions to others, or using estate assets for personal gain is a serious violation that can lead to:

• Legal removal from their position

• Fines and penalties

• Personal liability

In a diverse county like Los Angeles, with high-value estates and blended families, even the perception of favoritism can lead to courtroom conflict.

What Happens If Heirs Disagree With the Executor?

Heirs and beneficiaries have rights. If they believe the executor is:

• Mismanaging the estate

• Failing to follow the will

• Withholding information

• Acting unfairly

…they can file a petition with the probate court in Los Angeles County to intervene. The court may:

• Order a full accounting of the estate

• Block or reverse specific actions

• Remove the executor and appoint someone else

Executor Authority with Real Estate

Real estate is often the biggest asset in the estate. If the will gives clear direction about who should inherit the property, the executor must honor it. But if the will is vague or silent, they may:

• Sell the home to pay off debts

• Distribute proceeds to beneficiaries

• Transfer the home to one heir and adjust other distributions

In all cases, the executor must get fair market value and act in the estate’s best interest —not their own.

How We Support Executors and Heirs in Los Angeles Probate

At The Borges Real Estate Team, we’ve helped many families and personal representatives in Los Angeles County navigate situations just like this. Whether you’re trying to divide a high-value estate fairly, sell a home that’s causing tension, or avoid legal battles among heirs — we bring a calm, experienced, and no-pressure approach to probate real estate.

You don’t have to figure it out alone. We’re happy to walk you through what’s possible and help connect you with the right professionals if needed.