Does Notarized Document Have Legal Executorship Standing?
Q. My father is dying and left me, the youngest of 3, as his executor on a notarized document in 1989. At this point, he’s unable to do anything, and I wanted to know if I could use that notarized letter now to start handling his affairs? Or do I need to file for guardianship? What are the best actions for me to start taking, as we need access to his money to do for him and he’s not competent at all. Thank you in advance for your attention to this request, and I look forward to your reply. Tamara V., Pleasanton, California. A. The answer to your question very much requires that you speak with a lawyer, with some urgency. A simple notarized document is seldom adequate to name an executor for a will after death. You need to check on the rules applicable in California, but it is rare for a will to be valid if the signature has not been witnessed by at least two persons. Generally, “executor” refers to the person who administers and distributes someone’s assets after death. Again, you need
