Managing a Deceased Estate.

Home Personal Estate Planning Managing a Deceased Estate

Removing the uncertainty and burden from estate administration, by helping executors, administrators and families understand what needs to happen next.

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Supporting you through the process.

Losing someone you care about is difficult enough without facing the legal and administrative burden that follows. Their estate needs to be gathered, their debts finalised and their assets passed on to the right people.

If you’ve been named as executor in a Will, or you’re a family member navigating an estate where no Will exists, the responsibility can feel overwhelming. In either case, you do not have to manage the process on your own. Our team is here to guide you providing clear, compassionate advice at every stage.

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When legal issues feel pressing, timely help matters. Contact us today to see how we can assist.

Probate & Letters of Administration.

When someone passes, their estate usually needs court authorisation before assets can be distributed. The type of application depends on whether there’s a valid Will.

If there is a Will.

The named executor applies for a Grant of Probate from the Supreme Court. This confirms the Will is valid and gives the executor legal authority to manage the estate. This includes accessing bank accounts, selling property and distributing assets according to the Will’s instructions.

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If there is no Will.

A family member (usually a spouse or adult child) must apply for Letters of Administration. The court decides who has authority based on family relationship, and assets get distributed using intestacy laws (the government’s formula for who inherits when there’s no Will). This formula is inflexible and often doesn’t match what the deceased would have actually wanted.

Not every estate requires court authorisation. Small estates or those with jointly owned assets passing automatically to survivors may not need formal grants. However, banks and land authorities often require probate before releasing assets, so seeking early legal advice prevents costly delays.

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What executors and administrators do.

Being an executor or administrator comes with significant legal responsibilities. You’re personally accountable for managing the estate properly, which includes:

  • Securing all assets and arranging the funeral
  • Notifying creditors and beneficiaries through legal notices
  • Paying outstanding debts and taxes
  • Applying for probate or letters of administration
  • Distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries according to the Will or intestacy laws (the government’s rules for who inherits when there’s no Will)
  • Managing property sales, transferring shares and closing accounts
  • Representing the estate if someone contests the Will

These responsibilities take time, require careful attention and carry legal liability if done incorrectly. This is why many executors seek professional legal guidance.

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Meet our dedicated Wills Lawyers.

HHG Legal is one of Perth’s longest serving law firms, trusted in WA for over 100 years. When partnering with us, you’ll always work with a lawyer who specialises in Wills and Estate law.

What our clients are saying about us.

  • Jane Song at the Perth office is just amazing, quick, clear, friendly, and totally professional. Dealing with a matter on my behalf living on the other side of the planet, she was flexible and made sure I was kept up to date every step of the way!! Wish more people had this work ethic in the world!!
    R.M
    Wills, Estate and Succession Planning
  • Isabella and Lynn were caring and gracious in handling the estate of our family. They were very open with their communication and always helpful and informative as they led us through the steps required while also being respectful and patient with our questions and requests for assistance. Thank you
    S.D
    Wills, Estate and Succession Planning
  • I recently updated my Will and did an EPA with Isabella at HHG. She was wonderful including answering all of my questions and giving understandable explanations that made the experience easy. I would be happy to recommend to anyone seeking a Solicitor and legal firm.
    B.S
    Wills, Estate and Succession Planning

Local expertise. Multiple locations.

Our team of experienced lawyers operates from five locations across Perth and regional Western Australia. We’re local people who understand the area, backed by the expertise of one of WA’s most established firms. We take the time to listen, explain your options clearly, and guide you openly, providing reliable representation and quality advice at every step. Because every client deserves our full attention.

Office Locations
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The road to resolution.

We believe in a clear path forward. From our first conversation, we break things into manageable steps, keep you informed and work steadily toward a fair outcome, until we reach the resolution you’re seeking.

  • Consultation

    We listen to your situation and outline your options.
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  • Strategy

    We create a tailored plan to protect your interests.

  • Action

    We prepare documents, negotiate, or represent you.

  • Resolution

    We work toward the best possible outcome for you.

Tell us what you need

Every situation is different. Whether you’re exploring options or ready to move forward, we’re here to listen and find the right solution.

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