If you are the executor of a will and the deceased had more debt than assets, should you consult a lawyer?

About what specifically?

You will want to go through the formal probate process in order to start the clock on creditors making claims against the estate. If you go through the less formal "voluntary" probate creditors will likely hassle you as executor for years to come. I don't know that you need to consult a lawyer, but it wouldn't hurt if you are unsure about the probate process.