To remove an executor and appoint someone else, you’ll need to show that there are good reasons for doing so. This might include: They have refused to act You think they are mismanaging the estate There is a conflict of interests – i.e. if they also inherit from the estate and you believe this is compromising their duties They can’t perform their duties because of mental or physical disability All the relevant parties have agreed The named executor can’t be found. Once an executor has accepted their role, they can’t step down except with a court order.