Administering an estate is one of the most important and stressful responsibilities someone can take on. Nevada Counsel, LLC is urging newly appointed executors and personal representatives to learn about common probate mistakes before they lead to delays, disputes, or personal liability.
“Even well-meaning executors can unintentionally make costly errors,” said Nicole Harvey, attorney and founder of Nevada Counsel. “Probate isn’t just paperwork; it’s a legal process with strict rules and deadlines. If something is missed, it can come back on the executor personally.”
The Most Common Probate Mistakes in Nevada (Read on non-Nevadans, this will help you too.)
- Distributing assets too soon. Executors sometimes give heirs property or funds before debts, taxes, and court approvals are handled. This can leave the executor personally responsible for unpaid claims.
- Failing to inventory the estate. Nevada law requires a clear accounting of all probate assets — including real estate, accounts, personal property, and business interests. Missing items can cause disputes and court sanctions.
- Ignoring creditor claims or deadlines. Executors must notify creditors properly and honor the legal order of payment (funeral expenses, taxes, secured debts, etc.). Missing this step can delay closing the estate or trigger lawsuits.
- Not keeping proper records. Executors must maintain receipts, statements, and detailed notes for every action. Lack of documentation invites disputes from heirs and scrutiny from the court.
- Failing to communicate. Beneficiaries often grow anxious or suspicious if they’re left in the dark. Clear updates can prevent conflict and potential legal challenges.
“Most people serve as executor only once or twice in their lifetime,” Harvey added. “It’s normal not to know the process, but trying to figure it out alone can create expensive mistakes. The right help early on can make the entire probate smoother for everyone involved.”
An understanding of the common mistakes of administering an estate can help an executor avoid them. More often than not, an executor proceeds without awareness of these pitfalls that can cost the executor and the estate. Awareness of these fundamentals is the mission of Executorium.com, and we are thankful to Nicole Harvey and Nevada Counsel for their help bringing them to light.
About Nevada Counsel, LLC
Nevada Counsel, LLC is a Nevada-based law firm focused on estate planning, probate, and business legal services. Led by attorney Nicole Harvey, the firm provides proactive guidance to families, executors, and business owners navigating complex legal matters.
Guidance for Executors
Nevada Counsel helps personal representatives avoid these pitfalls with hands-on guidance, checklists, and legal representation. Executors and families seeking probate guidance can contact Nevada Counsel at (775) 832-3012 or visit NevadaCounsel.com to learn more.
About Nicole Harvey
Nicole Harvey is an author and attorney, licensed to practice in Nevada state and federal courts. Since 2008, Nicole has practiced in the areas of estate planning, estate administration, and business general counsel. She has worked for law firms, in-house legal departments, and in solo private practice. Nicole received her Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Economics from the University of Nevada, Reno, and her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University. Nicole is a proud native Nevadan, raising the next generation of kind, smart, and funny people near the ancient shores of the Great Basin.