An executor has a duty to carry out the terms of the will with scrupulous good faith and honesty. The executor must manage an estate’s assets capably and address all issues that may arise during the course of the estate’s administration. Although an executor is not required to hire an attorney, doing so may help to diminish the possibility of mistakes which might cost the executor or the estate money. And, yes, an executor may be personally liable should something go wrong with the administration of the estate.