Estate Administration

It is often daunting being appointed an Executor or Administrator and not knowing where to start. Our team will walk you through the process in detail so you understand what needs to be done and help you to prioritise each matter to be addressed.

Contact us if you need assistance to administer an estate

Who Administers the Estate?

Estate Administration is undertaken by an Executor. Generally, this person is appointed by the deceased’s Will.

If the Executor is unable or unwilling to act, or if there is no Will, another person may administer the estate, they are known as an Administrator. Where no one is able or willing to act, the relevant State Trustee may step in.

In some circumstances, an Executor may act informally. In most cases they will need to obtain a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration from the Court.

What are the duties of an Executor or Administrator?

Generally, an Executor’s duties are to gather the assets of the deceased’s estate, and to pay any debts of the deceased.  The Executor then distributes the remaining assets to the beneficiaries of the Will. 

Depending on the nature of the estate, some of the things an Executor may be responsible for include:

  • Organising the funeral

  • Applying to the Court for a Grant of Probate/Letters of Administration

  • Identifying the deceased’s assets and liabilities

  • Organising proper insurance cover for the deceased’s property

  • Closing bank accounts

  • Selling or transferring the deceased’s house and other property

  • Paying any creditors

  • Continuing to run a business operated by the deceased

  • Liaising with beneficiaries

  • Distributing money and items to beneficiaries

  • Taking care of any taxation issues

  • Looking after assets or investments that have been left to anyone under 18 or with a legal disability

  • Representing the estate in any litigation (e.g. a family provision claim)

When grieving, you shouldn't have to navigate legal affairs alone. Our team of experts can guide you through every step of the estate administration process, drawing on their extensive industry experience.

What are the steps involved in the estate administration process?

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Initial Consultation & Assessment

We'll meet with you to obtain all of the necessary details to commence the estate administration process and determine if a Grant is necessary

Identify the items owned by the deceased and any debts they may have

Contact all organisations that hold assets for the deceased and update beneficiaries

Collecting all assets, paying any debts and distributing the estate to the beneficiaries

No upfront payment**

We understand that the financial burden of dealing with the estate administration process can be a significant concern when you are not yet able to collect the assets of the estate. That's why we offer to defer the costs of administering the estate until assets have been collected. 

**Conditions apply

FAQ

Check out the frequently asked questions for quick answers to common inquiries.If your question is not answered here, please get in touch with our support team.

How long will it take to complete the estate administration process?

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When can I distribute the estate?

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Services

Securing your rightful inheritance is our priority. Our experienced team offers a full range of legal services to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Contested Wills

Let our experienced team navigate the complexities of contesting a Will for you. We provide comprehensive legal services, including gathering evidence and representing you in mediation and court to achieve the best possible outcome

Probate and Letters of Administration

A Grant of Probate (where there is a Will) or Letters of Administration (where there is no Will) is often the first step required to administer an estate. Our team can assist you step by step through the process

Estate Planning, Wills and Appointing an Attorney and Guardian

Our estate planning service is more than just preparing a will. We consider your superannuation, life insurance, corporate structures and your succession plan for business arrangements. We specialise in rural intergenerational family rearrangements. Our extensive litigation experience enables us to advise you so that you can minimise the risk of your estate being contested

Elder Financial Abuse

Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and not be financially taken advantage of

Constructive Trust Claims

A Constructive Trust can arise where it can be shown that there was a mutual intention (or a ‘promise’) between you and another person, that you would have some interest in property and that you have relied upon this promise to your detriment.