Discussion:
My coauthor and I signed a notarized agreement that if one of us died, the other was to be literary executor and was to finish any unfinished work. Any proceeds were to be split 50-50. In the event of either's death, his or her percentage would go to surviving children. The agreement was notarized in Arizona. My partner passed away. The works have not been copyrighted. I am no longer in Arizona. My partner left NYC Dec 25 and passed away on Dec 28 in Utah. I have a residence in NYC and in FL. What must I do to insure this agreement is valid?
Answer:
I am not familiar woth literary executorships, but it would seem to me the fact that you moved should not impact the agreement or the obligations contained therein.
Also, works are copyright on creation, although to be enforceable you have to file a copyright application with the work in the Copyright Office.
It sounds as if you should notify his or her spouse and children about the agreement (absent any agreement his works, and half of joint works would be property of his estate) and do what you said you would do. If you get any flak, then it is time to see a lawyer to protect your interests.