New York  |  Wills and Trusts

Once a will is filed for probate, it becomes a public record and is available to anyone.

An executor has no authority, other than that granted in the will and by the Surrogate's Court.

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I agree with Arnold that once probated, except in very unusual circumstances, a Will is a public document and can be seen by anyone, who may also buy a copy for a nominal fee. Likewise< I agree that an Executor must follow the terms of the Will and if there is any confusion get instructions from the Surrogate or a judge. The only time an Executor can act by himse;f if he is given discretion on doing or not doing something. If he acts improperly, he can be questioned by bringing this before the Surrogate. This is a reply to an Internet question and the reply is not intended to be legal advice or as creating an attorney-client relationship.