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An<a href="https://rip.ie/legal-and-financial-advice/youve-been-named-executor-in-a-will-what-to-do-next-265"> Executor</a> is the person named in the <a href="https://rip.ie/legal-and-financial-advice/why-make-a-will-254">will</a> of a deceased person, who is expected to carry out the wishes of the deceased after their death. Their responsibilities include dealing with the assets of the estate and distributing them according to the wishes expressed in the will.Very often, probate – the legal process of validating a person’s will – will be needed if there is any real estate involved or financial assets in excess of a certain value.It can be challenging if you are an interested party and the executor is not doing anything with the estate. In this case, and assuming they are not communicating with you, either directly or through the estate solicitors, you should consider retaining legal representation to take legal steps on your behalf to ensure that the administration of the estate progresses.Very often a letter from a solicitor can help. This letter can be written to the executor reminding them of their duty to deal with the administration of the estate. And it can have the desired effect of prompting them into action.However, in some cases an application may have to be made to the court to either remove the executor or to revoke the grant of probate (if one has already been granted and the executor is not finishing the job).<h2>Matters to Consider Before Taking Action</h2>Executor’s Year No legal proceedings can be taken against the executor until 12 months after the date of death. This is known as the ‘Executor’s Year’.Who Can Take Action? Only an interested party can take action to remove an executor. An interested party is a beneficiary of the estate, a creditor, or a co-executor (if there is more than one executor named).Multiple Executors Not all executors have to act. If there is more than one executor appointed, and the executor who is doing nothing has not even started dealing with the estate, the other executor or executors can administer the estate without the executor who is doing nothing. The inactive executor should be invited to reserve or renounce their position before the other executor steps in.Executor Unable to Act If an executor is unable to act due to disability, then there is a procedure to have that executor removed and an alternative appointed.Legal Advice If you end up having to take legal advice to assist with this issue, your solicitor will explore all options with you. Legal action is usually taken as a last resort – and only if the matter cannot be resolved in any other way.<h3>In Summary</h3>If the executor is not fulfilling their role, and you are a beneficiary of the estate or an interested party, there are various steps you can take to get help to address the issue. Seek help from a solicitor and they will assist you through the various steps as outlined above.Ciara O’Callaghan is a solicitor and member of the Law Society’s Probate Committee.<h3>Disclaimer</h3>Please note that this article is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be legal advice. While every care has been taken in its production, no legal responsibility or liability is accepted, warranted, or implied by the author, publishers, or the Law Society of Ireland in respect of any errors, omissions, or misstatement. Readers are advised to seek independent professional legal advice before acting on anything in this article.

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The Executor Named in the Will Is Doing Nothing: What Next?

This article is one of a series, and while it can be read on its own, is designed to be read along with the articles “<a href="https://rip.ie/legal-and-financial-advice/what-should-you-consider-when-making-a-will-257">What Should You Consider When Making A Will?</a>” and “<a href="https://rip.ie/legal-and-financial-advice/what-happens-if-you-dont-make-a-will-258">What Happens If You Don’t Make A Will?</a>” <h3>Introduction</h3>A will is a written document that lets you decide what happens to your property and assets in the event of your death. A will can also set out who should take care of young children. Importantly, it also stipulates who will manage your affairs after your death. It can be a difficult topic to think about, or discuss, but it is crucial, especially if you have young children. If you die without a will, you won’t have a say in who receives your property and other assets (including your pets). You won’t have a say in who manages your estate. If you have children, you miss out on the opportunity to nominate a trusted, responsible guardian for them. Not having a will can make it more difficult for your loved ones after you pass away.Wills aren’t just for the sick or elderly - in fact, every adult should consider making one. <h3>Who Gets What?</h3>You are the person best to decide how you want to divide your money and assets. Remember, nobody knows your wishes and your family as well as you do. Firstly, you should think about how you would like to divide your money and assets. You should have a good idea about what you own, either in your sole name or jointly with your spouse or civil partner. You should think about what you would be leaving behind and who you want it to go to.There are legal protections for your spouse, or civil partner, and your children, but most people provide for their family as fairly as possible in their will. Partners outside marriage are not protected to the same extent. Your spouse, or civil partner, has a legal right to a share in your estate: one third if you have children and one half if you don’t have children. If you are separated or divorced, the Court should have dealt with this. When it comes to your children, you should consider their ages; their education; any financial support you previously provided; what they now own; and their line of work. In some cases, the older and wealthier they are, the less help they may need. Your children are not entitled to a fixed share like a spouse or civil partner, but they can apply to Court if not properly provided for by what the law describes as a “just and prudent parent.”Many wills made by married couples leave everything to each other with a “gift over” clause/option, which states that if the other spouse also dies, all property goes to the children. If the children are very young, the “gift over” clause/option ensures everything goes to trustees to mind the assets for young children.<h3>Who Handles This?</h3>The person who takes care of your affairs in the event of your death is called your Executor or Executrix. This can be a very demanding and emotional role. You can appoint more than one. You should let them know beforehand that you will be assigning them this role, and where they can find your will, should anything happen to you. If you are leaving property to young children, as stated above, you might think about including a trust for those children, and appointing Trustees to manage any money or assets left for them while they are under 18, or even slightly older. A trust is where people called Trustees hold the assets “in trust” for the benefit of the children until the children reach 18, which is when they can own the property.  You might also think about appointing Guardians, who would take over your role in raising the children until they turn 18.In the event of one parent’s death, the surviving parent is automatically assigned as guardian, but if both parents were to die –in a car crash for example –  someone has to be appointed to mind them. This is a very difficult, but important decision to make, and should be considered carefully.<h3>Summary</h3>People, especially those with young children, should think about making a will to provide for their loved ones in the event of their death. They should think about dividing their assets fairly, taking their spouse’s rights into account, picking the right person to manage their affairs on death, if a trust is to be created, and who is to mind their young children. Padraic Courtney is a Solicitor and Secretary to the Probate, Administration &amp; Trusts Committee of the <a href="https://www.lawsociety.ie/">Law Society of Ireland</a>. Disclaimer: Please note that this article is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be legal advice. While every care has been taken in its production, no legal responsibility or liability is accepted warranted or implied by the author, publishers or the Law Society of Ireland in respect of any errors, omissions or misstatement. Readers are advised to seek independent professional legal advice before acting on anything in this article.

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Why Make a Will?

Grief is heavy. Sometimes it feels like a sack of flour sitting on your chest. The world keeps spinning around you like nothing has happened, but inside your mind, body, and soul, you feel utterly depleted and lost. Even the smallest tasks can seem impossible, and doing something nice for yourself might feel out of reach. But it’s important to try. Small acts of kindness toward yourself can help you breathe through the weight of loss.If things feel unmanageable or you’re struggling to cope, please consider reaching out for professional support. Talking to a counsellor or a bereavement service can make a real difference.Here are some ways to be kind to yourself, even on those heavy days:<h3>1. Allow Yourself to Feel</h3>Grief isn’t something to “get over.” It’s something to move through. Give yourself permission to cry, to feel angry, or even to laugh when memories bring joy. There’s no right or wrong way to grieve.<h3>2. Rest Without Guilt</h3>Loss is exhausting emotionally and physically. If you need extra sleep or quiet time, take it. Cancel plans if you have to. Rest is not laziness; it’s recovery.<h3>3. Create a Small Ritual</h3>Light a candle, play a favourite song, or visit a place that reminds you of your loved one. Rituals give structure to grief and help you feel connected. (Explore our <a href="https://shop.rip.ie/ecc/products.php?cat=8">remembrance candles here.</a>)<h3>4. Accept Help</h3>If someone offers to cook a meal, run an errand, or simply sit with you, say yes. Letting others support you is a sign of strength, not weakness.<h3>5. Nourish Your Body</h3>Grief can disrupt appetite and energy. Try to eat simple, comforting meals and drink plenty of water. Even small steps like a cup of tea can feel grounding.<h3>6. Spend Time Outdoors</h3>Fresh air and nature can soothe a heavy heart. A short walk by the canal, a moment in the garden, or sitting under a tree can bring calm.<h3>7. Speak Kindly to Yourself</h3>Notice your inner voice. Replace “I should be stronger” with “I’m doing my best.” Healing takes time. Give yourself grace.<h3>Remember: There’s No Timeline</h3>Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. Some days will feel harder than others. That’s okay. What matters is finding small ways to care for yourself as you navigate this journey.<h4>Related Reading: <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/lighting-a-candle-for-the-departed-irish-customs-explained-316">Lighting a Candle for the Departed – Irish Customs Explained</a></h4>

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7 Simple Ways to Be Kind to Yourself While You Are Grieving

Irish funerals are rich in tradition, and language plays a big part in that. From heartfelt prayers to poetic blessings, these words have been passed down through generations, offering comfort and hope in times of loss. Including an Irish blessing in a funeral service, eulogy, or sympathy card is a beautiful way to honour heritage and express compassion.In this article, we’ll explore:<ul><li>Popular Irish funeral blessings</li><li>Their meanings and pronunciation</li><li>The origins and cultural significance behind them</li><li>Tips for using them thoughtfully</li></ul><h3>Why Irish Blessings Matter</h3>Irish blessings aren’t just words; they’re pieces of history. Rooted in faith and folklore, they reflect values of peace, light, and eternal rest. Many of these phrases come from traditional prayers, while others are inspired by nature and the idea of reunion beyond this life.<h3>Common Irish Funeral Blessings</h3>1. Go lonraí solas na bhFlaitheas ortMeaning: May the light of Heaven shine upon you Pronunciation: Guh lun-ree sull-us nah vlah-has ort This blessing is often used in funeral prayers and memorials, symbolising hope and divine light.2. I suaimhneas na síoraíochta go raibh túMeaning: May you be in the peace of eternity Pronunciation: Ee soo-iv-ness nah shee-ree-uk-ta guh rev too A poetic phrase that conveys eternal rest and serenity.3. Go dtuga Dia sólás daoibhMeaning: May God give you comfort Pronunciation: Guh dug-a Dee-a so-lawss dee-iv This blessing is for the bereaved, offering strength and consolation.4. Go gcastar le chéile arísMeaning: May we meet again Pronunciation: Guh gos-tar leh kyay-la ah-reesh A hopeful phrase often spoken at gravesides or included in farewell messages.5. Go raibh síocháin na bhFlaitheas air/uirthiMeaning: May the peace of Heaven be upon him/her Pronunciation: Guh rev shee-kawn nah vlah-has air / ur-hee A gentle blessing for eternal peace.<h3>Origins of These Blessings</h3>Most Irish funeral blessings have roots in Catholic prayers and centuries-old traditions. They often reference Heaven (na bhFlaitheas), peace (síocháin), and eternal rest (suaimhneas síoraí). Others echo the Irish love of nature and the belief in spiritual reunion.<h3>How to Use Irish Blessings</h3><ul><li>In a eulogy: Add a short blessing at the end as a farewell.</li><li>On a <a href="https://shop.rip.ie/ecc/products.php?cat=4">sympathy card</a>: Pair the Irish phrase with an English translation.</li><li>During a service: Include a blessing in prayers or readings.</li></ul>Looking for Sympathy Cards?Browse our range o<a href="https://shop.rip.ie/ecc/products.php?cat=4">f Irish-themed sympathy cards here</a>. Related Reading: <a href="https://rip.ie/grief-and-bereavement-support/how-to-say-rest-in-peace-in-irish-and-other-comforting-words-313">How to Say “Rest in Peace” in Irish – And Other Comforting Words</a>

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Why Make a Will?

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