Who Should Be the Executor of My Will? Avoiding the "Hidden" Sibling Conflict

Dan McKenzie • April 20, 2026

As an estate planning attorney in the Denver metro area, I often see families struggle with one specific choice. In my recent video, The Family Conflict Hidden Inside Most Wills, I explain why the person you choose to manage your estate is the most important decision you will make.

Who should be the executor of my will?

Many parents naturally want to name one of their adult children as the executor—the person responsible for carrying out the instructions in a will. While this comes from a place of love, it is often a recipe for conflict. When one sibling is put in charge of the others, it can quickly lead to suspicion and hurt feelings, especially if communication isn't perfect.

The risk of sibling rivalry in estate planning

Even the closest families can feel the strain of a legal process. If the sibling in charge isn't incredibly transparent, other family members may start to wonder if things are being handled fairly. This tension can overshadow your legacy and cause lasting damage long after the legal work is done. Whether your family spends their weekends hiking in the Rockies or cheering on the Denver Broncos, you want those bonds to remain strong.

Considering a professional executor

To avoid these hidden conflicts, we often suggest looking outside the family tree. A professional executor or a neutral third party can handle the paperwork, taxes, and asset distribution without the emotional baggage. This allows your children to focus on supporting each other during a difficult time rather than arguing over logistics.

Choosing the right person for the job

Every family in Centennial and across the Denver metro area is unique. When we sit down for a strategy session, we discuss the specific qualities your representative needs. We assess the complexity of your assets and the dynamics of your family to ensure the person in charge is a good fit for the role.

If it has been more than 5 years since you last reviewed your plan, or if you aren't sure who should be in charge, we are here to help. Contact The McKenzie Law Firm, LLC today to schedule a consultation. Call us at 720-821-7604 to ensure your estate plan brings your family together instead of pulling them apart.

The McKenzie Law Firm, LLC practices law exclusively in Colorado. This post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation.

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What Happens to a Bank Account When Someone Dies in Colorado?

By Dan McKenzie • September 15, 2026

Losing a loved one is overwhelming, and many families are surprised to learn that financial matters can freeze instantly after a passing. When a person dies, their legal financial identity stops immediately. This means they can no longer hold property, sign agreements, or authorize payments. Even if you hold a power of attorney—a legal document allowing you to make decisions on someone’s behalf while they are alive—that authority ends the moment they pass away. Families across the Denver metro area are often caught off guard when trying to access funds to pay for immediate expenses.