Deceased Estates
Estate Administration with a Will
In the event that a loved one has passed away, the solicitors at Macrossan & Amiet have the skills and experience to assist you in the administration of the deceased’s estate. Our experienced team are very understanding and supportive of clients during this time and are proficient in dealing with the process of estate administration to collect in the assets of the deceased, arrange for the sale of any assets, liaise with Accountants and Financial Planners to ensure that everything is performed in a timely and efficient manner. We work closely with Executors and beneficiaries to ensure that we meet their expectations with respect to the administration of the estate.
If you are the Executor of your loved-one’s Will, you will be called on to make some important decisions. It will be your responsibility to administer the deceased’s real, personal and intellectual property in accordance with the terms of the Will and to distribute the assets to each of the beneficiaries.
Estate Administration without a Will
If a person dies without a Will, this is called an Intestate estate. Many people think that if you die without a Will that the money will go to the Government. That is not the case, and the estate will be distributed in accordance with the Succession Act 1981. We can assist you to work out who will be best to administer the estate and ensure that the estate is distributed to the rightful beneficiaries.
It may be necessary to apply to the Court for a Letters of Administration on Intestacy in order to administer the estate and our experienced team can assist you in all aspects of estate administration.
Estate Disputes
Also when a deceased person passes away, a dispute may arise. Estate Disputes may occur if any of the following happens:-
- If someone has been left out of the Will or considers the terms of the Will unfair;
- If someone contests the intentions of the deceased;
- If someone challenges the entitlements of the beneficiaries; or
- If the Will or estate is challenged in any way.
In these cases the right legal advice can be critical. The solicitors at Macrossan & Amiet can advise clients on all matters in both a timely and compassionate manner.
Sometimes despite the best intention of the deceased, at the time of their death, the deceased’s Will may not reflect their current wishes. Family members who feel they have not received their correct entitlement under a Will can feel stressed and anguished. We can assist and advise you on these matters and ensure that you receive your rightful inheritance.
If you are intending to make a claim for further and better provision under an estate, in accordance with relevant legislation, there is a timeframe of 6 months after the death of the deceased in which you must lodge notice of any proposed claim. Our expert legal team can advise and guide you through this process.