Compassionate Guidance when you need it most

Estate
Administration


Practical Advice During Difficult Times


Losing a loved one is never easy, and managing their estate can feel overwhelming during an already difficult time. If you've been appointed as an Executor or need to administer the estate of someone who has died, you don't have to navigate the legal process alone.

At Foxfield Lawyers, we provide compassionate, practical guidance through every stage of estate administration. Whether you're applying for Probate, seeking Letters of Administration or managing a straightforward or complex deceased estate, our experienced lawyers are here to support you with clear advice and responsive service.

What is Estate Administration?

Estate administration is the legal process of managing and finalising a person's estate after they have died. This involves identifying assets, paying debts, meeting legal obligations and distributing the estate to beneficiaries in accordance with the deceased's Will or the laws of intestacy if no valid Will exists.

Administering an estate often involves significant legal responsibilities. Our experienced estate administration lawyers help Executors and Administrators understand their obligations, minimise delays and ensure the estate is administered correctly.

Every estate is different, and the level of assistance required will depend on the circumstances. Whether you need guidance with a single aspect of the process or support from beginning to end, we're here to help.

Our Estate Administration services include:

  • Applying for Probate

  • Applying for Letters of Administration

  • Resealing Grants of Probate from other Australian states or overseas

  • Advising Executors and Administrators of their legal responsibilities

  • Collecting and distributing estate assets

  • Communicating with banks, government agencies and financial institutions

  • Assisting with superannuation and shareholdings

  • Liaising with accountants and financial advisers

  • Advice on complex estate administration matters

Supporting Executors & Administrators

Being appointed as an Executor or Administrator carries important legal responsibilities. Many people have never acted in this role before and are unsure where to begin.

We provide practical advice and ongoing support to help you:

  • Understand your legal obligations

  • Identify and protect estate assets

  • Communicate with beneficiaries

  • Pay debts and liabilities

  • Finalise the administration efficiently

  • Reduce the risk of personal liability

Our goal is to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible while ensuring the estate is administered in accordance with the law.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Probate and Estate Administration?

1

Estate administration is the overall process of managing a deceased person's estate. Probate is the legal authority granted by the Supreme Court that allows an Executor to begin administering the estate where a valid Will exists.


What happens if there isn't a Will?

2

If someone dies without a valid Will, an eligible person can usually apply for Letters of Administration to become the legal Administrator of the estate. The estate is then distributed according to the relevant legislation.


How long does Estate Administration take?

3

Every estate is different. The timeframe depends on factors such as the assets involved, whether Probate is required, the complexity of the estate and whether there are any disputes. We can provide guidance based on your individual circumstances.


Do I need a lawyer for Estate Administration?

4

While it's possible to administer some estates without legal assistance, many Executors choose to work with an experienced estate administration lawyer to ensure legal requirements are met, paperwork is completed correctly and the risk of costly mistakes is minimised.

Ready to Speak With Our Team?

Administering a loved one's estate can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. Whether you need assistance applying for Probate, obtaining Letters of Administration or managing the entire estate administration process, Foxfield Lawyers is here to provide trusted legal advice with care and compassion.

Contact our team today to arrange an appointment and discuss how we can assist with your estate administration matter.

Post: PO Box 3066, Devonport TAS 7310
Location: 6 Barker Street, Devonport TAS 7310

Phone: 03 6410 8066