Probate
Applying for a grant of probate (will) or letter of administration (no will) gives you the legal rights to deal with the person’s estate when they are no longer around. We understand that losing a loved one can be an emotional and stressful time, that is why you will need a trusted advisor to provide friendly, efficient and sympathetic advice and guidance in this season in life.
| Grant of Probate | Letters of Administration |
|---|---|
| Valid Will | No Will |
| Executor(s) willing to administer the estate | No named executors |
| Extracted and given to executor(s) named in the Will | Priority for the next-of-kin to apply |
| Usually easier and cheaper to extract | Process may be longer and more expensive |
| No sureties required | Sureties may be required |
** A ‘Surety’ is someone who is responsible or liable for the action or conduct of the administrator
For many of our families, getting the grant of probate makes the job of an executor easier. For the unprepared, it is often a long-drawn process which may be expensive and brings about unnecessary burdens for our families.
At Council of Estate Planning, we develop a tailored strategy to your specific estate planning objectives and consider how best to pass your treasures to your loved ones.