Estate Administration
At Bruno Lawyers, we offer comprehensive estate administration services to guide you through the complexities of managing and distributing a deceased person’s estate. Whether there is a valid Will, or the estate is intestate, we assist with every step of the process, including identifying and valuing assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the estate to beneficiaries. With our experienced team by your side, you can navigate estate administration confidently, knowing that every detail is managed with care and precision.
Review and Interpretation of Will
Interpreting a Will is a meticulous process aimed at ensuring that the wishes of the deceased are carried out. Our experienced team carefully analyses the language and structure of the will, considering both the legal context and the specific intentions of the Will maker. We address any ambiguities or inconsistencies by evaluating relevant evidence and applying our extensive knowledge of wills and estates law.
Probate in the South Australian Supreme Court
We offer comprehensive probate services to help you navigate the legal process after a loved one’s passing. Applying for probate involves validating the will, appointing an executor, and ensuring that the estate is administered according to South Australian law. Our experienced team handles every step, from gathering necessary documentation to submitting the application to the court. We work diligently to streamline the process, address any potential challenges and provide clear guidance throughout. Our goal is to make the probate process as smooth and efficient as possible, giving you peace of mind during a difficult time.
Letters of Administration in the South Australian Supreme Court
Our firm provides expert assistance in applying for Letters of Administration when a loved one passes away without a valid will. This legal process involves appointing an administrator to manage and distribute the deceased’s estate according to South Australian law. We guide you through each step, from gathering necessary documentation to preparing and submitting the application to the Supreme Court. With our extensive experience in estate administration, we handle any complexities that may arise, ensuring a smooth and efficient process. Our aim is to provide clear, compassionate support, helping you navigate the process with confidence during a challenging time.
What can the process involve?
We ensure that the estate administration process is handled efficiently and in compliance with all South Australian legal requirements. We assist with:
Preparing and submitting all necessary documents to the court to begin the process.
Helping appoint the executor named in the Will or, if none is named, assisting in having an administrator appointed.
Identifying all assets owned by the deceased and obtaining valuations where necessary.
Ensuring all outstanding debts, taxes, and liabilities are paid from the estate.
Advising on the management or sale of estate assets, including real estate, superannuation, insurance payments, investments, and personal property.
Overseeing the distribution of assets to beneficiaries as outlined in the Will or, if intestate, according to South Australian intestacy laws.
Handling disputes among beneficiaries or challenges to the Will, such as claims of undue influence or lack of capacity.
Handling probate for assets located in different jurisdictions, including cross-border estates.
Representing the executor or administrator in court if disputes or complications arise during estate administration.
Managing communications with beneficiaries, providing updates, and ensuring their concerns are addressed.
Did you know?
A handwritten will can be valid even if it doesn’t meet all the formal requirements, like being witnessed, as long as the court is satisfied that it reflects the deceased’s true intentions. Under the South Australian estate laws, the Supreme Court has the power to recognise informal wills, including handwritten notes or digital documents. This gives the court some flexibility when dealing with unusual or incomplete wills, making estate administration in South Australia more adaptable than in some other places.
Handwritten wills can lead to several problems during estate administration. While they can be valid in South Australia, they often lack the formalities of a properly executed will, which can cause major complications such as unclear intentions, the lack of witnesses can be challenged on grounds of validity as to whether the deceased actually created the will, critical errors and omissions and a much higher change of being contested.
Why have us assist you?
Handling estate administration on your own can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with complex legal requirements, potential tax implications and the emotional toll of losing a loved one.
Mistakes in managing the estate, such as missing deadlines or misinterpreting the will, can lead to costly delays or disputes among beneficiaries. By having our law firm assist you, you benefit from our expertise in navigating the legal process smoothly and efficiently. We ensure that all legal obligations are met, assets are distributed correctly and any disputes are managed promptly, giving you peace of mind and reducing the stress during a difficult time.
