An executor does have certain powers to override a will, but that doesn’t mean they can simply cheat beneficiaries. If an executor is found to be cheating a beneficiary, they can be removed as an executor and potentially taken to court.  There are several things that an executor cannot do, as it would go against their duty. The broad duty of the executor is to do what is best for the deceased’s estate. This requires following the terms laid out in the will. If they’re found not to be, they can be removed as executor. An executor isn’t allowed to sign on behalf of the deceased. If a will is written but not signed, then the will is not lawful. The executor has no power to sign the will.  They are also not allowed to carry out any actions while the creator of the will is still alive. This is true for beneficiaries as well.  Similarly, once the creator of the will has passed, the executor isn’t allowed to make any changes. Even if the deceased discussed these changes with the executor. Unless the will was actually updated by the creator, it must stand as written. The only time a change is possible is when the will has been contested, if it’s impossible to carry out an aspect of the will (for example, if a beneficiary has died), or if the beneficiaries give permission. While the executor cannot change the will, they also can’t stop any beneficiaries or potential beneficiaries from contesting. Although this is rarely a pleasant process, beneficiaries are within their rights to contest a will they feel is unfair. This is true no matter how well the executor follows the terms of the will. An executor is also required to sell any assets at their correct value. They’re expected to treat the estate as if it were their own. A good executor will keep records of any appraisals and sales, to prove they’re acting within the estates best interest. If the executor appears to be cheating any beneficiaries, they can be taken to court and removed as executor. For serious mismanagement, an executor could be subject to a civil lawsuit. These standards are in place to avoid any mismanagement.