Beneficiary refuses to sign off estate accounts

[Rab D]

I am the executor of my late mothers will. My sister who I don't speak too, has been sent the estate accounts to sign by the solicitor appointed. Three months have now passed and she has ignored the communication and a reminder. The will was straightforward, no complications. A property involved, which has been sold and some cash in the bank and insurance policies. Can I instruct the solicitor to distribute without her signature?

Any help would be greatly appreciated

[des8]

Re: Beneficiary refuses to sign off estate accounts

There is no requirement to have the estate accounts signed off by a legatee or a residuary beneficiary. It is just good practice and on a challenge the executors would wave this to the court saying, "look she agreed to it at the time!". That's the purpose of it really.

You can distribute the estate without the signed estate accounts

[Rab D]

Re: Beneficiary refuses to sign off estate accounts

Thank you for your reply. I thought as much, but wonder why the solicitor hasn't just gone ahead with the distribution. Many Thanks Again