Dairam & AssociatesAttorneys-at-Law

Probate and Estate Administration

Wills, grants of representation, and the legal work involved in administering an estate.

Understanding the matter

Estate matters may begin with preparing a will or with questions following a death. Where someone has died, identifying any will, the relevant family circumstances, and the assets involved helps establish what needs to be considered.

Probate and letters of administration are different forms of grant. The appropriate application depends on the circumstances, including whether there is a will and who is entitled to apply. Estate administration also involves work beyond obtaining the grant itself.

House keys resting on papers beside a plain envelope

Matters within this area

  • Preparation and consideration of wills
  • Applications for grants of probate
  • Applications for letters of administration
  • Questions arising during estate administration

Preparing for a discussion

  • The death certificate and any will or related document available
  • Names and relevant family details of the deceased and proposed applicant
  • Available records of property, accounts, and liabilities
  • Details of any previous estate application or overseas connection

Common questions

Are probate and letters of administration the same?

They are different forms of grant. Probate generally concerns an executor appointed in a will. Letters of administration may be relevant where there is no valid will, and a separate form can apply where there is a will but an executor cannot act. The circumstances determine the appropriate application.

What information should I gather about an estate?

Start with the death certificate, any will, relevant family information, and the asset records already available. Make a separate note of missing documents or uncertain details. The information required for an application will depend on the estate and the applicant's circumstances.

Every matter has a starting point.

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