Losing a family member is hard enough without the paperwork, deadlines and competing demands that can follow. We help executors and families manage wills and estates in a clear, practical way – from applying for a grant through to collecting assets, paying liabilities and distributing the estate.

Grants of Probate and Letters of Administration

In many estates, you cannot properly deal with the deceased’s assets until the Supreme Court issues a grant.

A Grant of Probate is the Court’s formal recognition that the executor named in the will is authorised to administer the estate. Banks and other institutions will often require probate before they will release funds, transfer shares, or deal with higher-value assets.

If there is no valid will (or no executor able and willing to act), the Court can issue Letters of Administration. This appoints an administrator to manage the estate under the intestacy rules (the laws that determine who inherits when there is no will).

We can advise whether a grant is required, prepare the application, and guide you through each step.

Estate administration and distribution

Once a grant issues, the work often includes:

  • identifying and calling in all assets (bank accounts, shares, refunds, personal items and, where applicable, real property)
  • dealing with liabilities and final accounts (including aged care accounts and other debts)
  • keeping proper estate records and reporting to beneficiaries
  • arranging transfers or sales and distributing the estate in accordance with the will (or intestacy laws)
  • managing time-critical issues and reducing risk for the executor

Wills and estate planning

A well-drafted will can reduce disputes, save time and expense, and make your intentions clear. We can assist with:

  • simple and complex wills
  • appointing executors and guardians
  • planning for blended families and step-children
  • trusts for children and vulnerable beneficiaries
  • updating wills after separation, divorce, new relationships or significant asset changes
  • powers of attorney and advance care directives (where required)

Disputes and family provision claims

Sometimes estates become contentious – for example, where the validity of a will is challenged, there is disagreement between beneficiaries, or a family provision claim is foreshadowed. We can advise executors and beneficiaries on options to resolve disputes early, preserve estate assets, and navigate the Court process if required.

How we can help

We provide practical advice from the outset, explain what is required and why, and keep you informed of the likely steps, costs and timeframes. If you are an executor, we can help you carry out your duties properly and reduce personal risk. If you are a beneficiary, we can advise you about your rights and the process.

If you are unsure whether you need probate or letters of administration, contact us and we will point you in the right direction.