Probate and Estate Administration

After a loved one has passed away, their financial affairs need to be looked after. Assets have to be sold; debts and taxes have to be paid; and what is left needs to be paid out to the beneficiaries named in the Will. In some circumstances there is no Will and the law will determine how the estate is divided up. The work of managing a deceased person’s affairs is called Estate Administration. The person or people who are responsible for the estate administration are called Estate Trustees or Executors. If there is a Will, the Executor usually needs to apply to the court for Probate, or what is now formally called a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee. Securing the Certificate of Appointment will allow the Executor to start dealing with the assets in the estate. If there is no Will then the law determines who can apply for the Certificate of Appointment.

We help Executors with the work of applying for probate and administering an estate. If you are named as the Executor in a Will or if someone close to you has died without a Will, we can help by giving you the advice and assistance you need to make sure the estate administration proceeds as smoothly and efficiently as possible.

Acting as an Executor is a lot of work that carries with it significant responsibility as well as potential liability that comes along with this role. It is very important to make sure you understand what your obligations are right from the start to avoid any costly mistakes.

It is always important to choose the right law firm for the job. We have the experience and expertise to help you with all estates, large and small. When looking for help with the administration of an estate or probate, let us provide you with the answers and assistance you need.