pesänhoitajat

Pesänhoitajat is a Finnish term that translates to "estate administrators" or "executors" in English. In the context of Finnish inheritance law, pesänhoitajat are individuals appointed to manage and distribute the assets of a deceased person's estate. Their primary role is to oversee the process of settling the estate, which includes identifying all assets and debts, paying any outstanding liabilities, and dividing the remaining property among the rightful heirs.

The appointment of a pesänhoitaja can occur in several ways. Often, the deceased may have named an executor in their will. Alternatively, if there is no will or if the named executor is unable or unwilling to serve, the heirs themselves can agree to appoint one or more pesänhoitajat. In cases of disagreement among heirs or if the estate is complex, the district court can also appoint a pesänhoitaja.

The responsibilities of a pesänhoitaja are significant and legally defined. They are required to act impartially and in the best interests of all parties involved in the estate. This includes inventorying the estate, preparing a final account of the estate's financial situation, and facilitating the division of assets according to the law or the deceased's will. The pesänhoitaja's duties continue until the estate is fully settled and distributed.