which would be better depends on the capabilities of the individual which vary. I suggest you interview a few of each and you might also want to interview some tax attorneys. Some may not want to handle the situation because of the issue of getting info from more than 10 years ago. Try to get an estimated of their charges or perhaps a cap because it seems they are going to have to devote a lot of time and effort into resolving these issues. Also, there best estimate of what might be owed in taxes, penalties and interest. The IRS (and states) have the right to collect debts from the estate and the estate is responsible for settling these debts before distributing assets to the beneficiaries. Whether the executor has any personal responsibility if this wasn't done is best ask of the pro.
