Estate administration involves the legal process of managing and distributing a deceased person’s estate. This process can be complex and requires careful adherence to legal and financial procedures. At DavyLaw, we provide expert guidance through the estate administration process to ensure that your loved one’s estate is managed and distributed according to their wishes and in compliance with the law.
Estate Administration
Process
01. Obtain the death certificate and locate the will
The first step in administrating a deceased person’s estate is to obtain the death certificate and locate the will. This will allow us to begin the process of estate administration.
02. Appoint an executor
If named in the will, the executor will manage the estate. If no will exists or if the named executor is unavailable, the court will appoint an administrator.
03. Settling debts and expenses
Our team of experts will guide you through the process of paying any outstanding debts, taxes, and administrative expenses from estate funds.
04. Close the estate
Filing a final accounting with the court, if required, and obtaining approval to close the estate is the final step in estate administration.
Frequently Asked Questions
The executor is responsible for managing the estate, including filing for probate, gathering and inventorying assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries.
The duration varies depending on the complexity of the estate, the efficiency of the probate process, and whether any disputes arise. On average, estate administration can take several months to over a year.
Yes, if there is no will, the estate is administered according to intestacy laws. These laws determine how assets are distributed based on the deceased’s family relationships.
An estate lawyer provides legal advice, assists with probate filings, helps asset management and distribution, resolves disputes, and ensures compliance with legal requirements throughout the administration process. Contact us to find out more about estate administration.
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