Estate Administration

When someone dies, his or her estate is represented by an executor or administrator. If the deceased person has made a Will it is the named executor(s) who will be charged with the responsibility of implementing the terms of the Will and administering the estate.

Usually, subject to the value of an estate, an executor(s) is required to obtain what is called a "Grant of Probate" from the Supreme Court of South Australia. The Grant of Probate is a process whereby a deceased's Will is validated as being his or her last Will. Upon a Grant of Probate being made, an executor then has the responsibility of implementing the terms of the Will by distributing the assets of the estate to the nominated beneficiaries after payment of liabilities and expenses.

If a person dies without making a Will the distribution of his or her estate is governed by legislation. Usually a next of kin (mother, father, brother, sister) applies to the Court to be appointed as the estate's administrator. Upon being appointed, the administrator then distributes the assets of the estate in accordance with a formula set-out in the legislation.

If you require advice and assistance regarding any probate or estate administration matter please contact us for more information.

Trust, Reliability, Security & Peace-of-Mind

 Perhaps you are named as executor of the Will of someone who has recently died. Don't worry - you don't have to do it all yourself. You can instruct us to take care of things on behalf of the estate.

By instructing us to administer a deceased estate, you gain the confidence and assurance that it will be administered by a professional and experienced organisation that has already streamlined the necessary administration procedures. Some of the advantages of instructing us are as follows:

Experience - Genders & Partners has nearly 160 years' experience in the administration of estates and trusts. As the oldest law firm in South Australia, we are very experienced in this area of law.

Efficiency - We specialise in will-making and estate administration. Our staff are thoroughly experienced in processing wills.

Independence - As independent professionals, we have no personal beneficial interest in the estates administered.

Accessibility - our staff are always available to discuss estate matters and to provide information.

Sympathetic administration - many Trustee companies are criticised as being impersonal, bureaucratic and unfeeling. We pride ourselves on our personal service.

Confidentiality - All information received by us is confidential.