If the executor of estate is a family member do they have to be selected or can they apply?

Question

Is this done before or after death?

Answer 1

Executors of estates are chosen by the person making the will. They do not have to be a family member and often shouldn't be to avoid conflicts. No one applies but you could always ask if you think you could be a good and fair choice. Of course, this is done at the time the will is created.

Answer 2

Executor is after the death of someone...then you have to go before a probate judge and if there are more siblings ...all have to be in agreement that you are going to be the Executor. Or there may be two or three Executors.
Before death you become Power of Attorney...picked by the person or because of mental reasons by a judge. But the Power of Attorney ends at the death of the person. That is when you have to file with the Probate Judge for the Executor........God bless and hope this helps.