Estate Administration

Support for Executors and Families

Losing someone close to you is never easy. Being named executor or administrator adds significant legal responsibilities during an already difficult time. Even simple estates involve complex legal requirements, strict deadlines, and potential personal liability if mistakes are made.

We understand the emotional weight of settling a loved one’s affairs. Our experienced team provides compassionate support while ensuring all legal obligations are met properly. From the initial probate application through final distribution to beneficiaries, we handle the complex legal work so you can focus on what matters most: your family.

Estate Administration With a Will

When your loved one leaves a will, your role as executor is to carry out their wishes according to the law. While having a will simplifies the process, you still face significant responsibilities.

We guide you through obtaining the death certificate, notifying beneficiaries and financial institutions, inventorying and valuing assets, applying for probate, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets according to the will. Our team ensures you meet all legal requirements while protecting you from personal liability.

Estate Administration Without a Will (Intestacy)

When someone dies without a will, the Intestate Succession Act determines how assets are distributed. This often leads to issues and family conflicts.

The process becomes more complex: the court appoints an administrator, a fixed legal formula distributes assets, common-law partners may need to apply to the court for recognition, and the inheritances of minor children require special handling. We navigate these complications, ensuring proper administration while minimizing family disputes.

Executors & Administrators

Executors (named in a will) and administrators (appointed by the court when there’s no will) have the same core duties but different paths to authority.

Your legal obligations include acting in the estate’s best interest, maintaining accurate records, treating beneficiaries fairly, meeting tax filing deadlines, and following proper procedures. Mistakes can result in personal liability. We advise on your duties, help avoid common pitfalls, and ensure you fulfill your role properly.

Probate Process

Probate is the court’s formal approval of your authority to administer the estate. Most estates require probate before banks will release funds, or property can be transferred.

The process involves preparing multiple documents within strict timelines, including the probate application, inventory of assets, notices to beneficiaries, and tax clearances. We handle all documentation, court filings, and correspondence, ensuring deadlines are met and avoiding delays that frustrate beneficiaries.

Estate Administration Process

Initial Steps: We start by reviewing the will (if one exists), identifying all assets and debts, and determining if probate is required. We then prepare and file all necessary court documents.
Asset Management: During administration, we help you secure and preserve estate property, manage investments appropriately, collect debts owed to the estate, and maintain proper insurance coverage.
Final Distribution: Once debts and taxes are paid, we prepare the final accounting, obtain releases from beneficiaries, distribute assets according to the will or law, and close the estate properly.