Being responsible for an estate can leave you unsure where to start. Our Wellington trusts and estates team advises executors and families on probate and estate administration, from the first questions about a will to distributing the estate.
Advice for the responsibilities ahead
Probate and letters of administration
We can help you understand whether a High Court application is needed and advise on the probate process. If there is no will, speak with us about letters of administration and the next steps for the estate.
Estate administration
An estate may involve property, accounts, debts and several beneficiaries. We advise on the administration process and the responsibilities involved in managing and distributing the estate.
You may be dealing with an estate for the first time, alongside the loss of someone close. Tell us what stage you have reached and what you need help with. We can discuss the legal work involved and the support that suits your situation.
When to speak with us
You have been named as an executor in a will
A family member has died without a will
You need advice about administering or distributing an estate
You are a beneficiary with questions about how an estate is being managed
What we can advise on
Probate and letters of administration
Your responsibilities as an executor or administrator
Legal questions about estate assets, debts and distribution
Questions or concerns raised by beneficiaries
Starting the conversation
1. Tell us about the estate
Let us know whether there is a will, your connection to the estate and what has happened so far. You can also tell us about any immediate concerns.
2. Understand the legal steps
We discuss the legal steps relevant to the estate, including whether probate or letters of administration may be needed.
3. Agree the work
Before work begins, discuss the assistance you need, the scope of our involvement and costs with the team.
4. Get advice as matters progress
We can advise on questions that arise during administration and as you prepare to distribute the estate.
We also assist with Trusts, Wills and Life Planning.
Need advice about an estate? Tell our team what has happened so far and what you need help with.
The Team
probate and estate administration
Richard Allen
Partner
Richard leads the firm’s property and private client teams. He has previously run his own practice and worked for one of the largest firms in New Zealand. Richard’s specialises in trusts, asset protection, and life planning. Richard’s clients appreciate the fact that he is approachable and down-to-earth, delivering pragmatic solutions to his client’s legal problems.
More about Richard Allen
Supported by
Amelia Lewis
&
Katarina Becic
Shiree MacKay
Associate/Estate Manager
Shiree is the firm’s expert in estates, wills and elder law, having 35 years’ experience practicing in that area. Shiree also advises on conveyancing matter, retirement villages, Enduring Powers of Attorney and Relationship property Advice. Shiree excels at making complex legal matters easy to understand.
More about Shiree MacKay
Supported by
Amelia Lewis
&
Katarina Becic