What happens with the debts of the deceased?
The Executor must determine the balance outstanding of any debts owed by the Deceased so that arrangements for payment can be made. If the Executor is not satisfied that such debts are legitimate debts of the Deceased, it is the Executor’s responsibility to contest or settle such debts. The Executor will be personally responsible for debts to the extent of assets passing through the Executor’s hands even without notice of those debts. To protect the Executor from claims by creditors of the Deceased, advertisements for creditors should be placed. Subject to other limitation dates, the Executor is not permitted to distribute the assets of the Estate until 21 days from the last publication has elapsed.
