Estate Administration

Estate Administration in Victoria

When a loved one passes away, their estate needs to be administered according to their will or, if there is no will, according to the laws of intestacy. This process can be complex and emotionally challenging for executors or administrators. At Parke Lawyers, we provide clear, professional, and compassionate guidance to help you through every stage of estate administration.

1. Apply for probate

Before an executor can manage an estate, they must apply for a Grant of Probate from the Supreme Court of Victoria. This legal document confirms the validity of the will and gives the executor authority to act. If there is no will, an application for Letters of Administration may be required. Parke Lawyers prepares all necessary documents and lodges them on your behalf to ensure a smooth process.

2. Locate assets

An important step in estate administration is identifying and collecting the assets of the deceased. This can include bank accounts, property, investments, personal belongings, and superannuation. We assist executors in locating, securing, and valuing these assets so the estate can be properly managed.

3. Pay debts

Before beneficiaries can receive their share, the estate’s debts must be settled. This may include mortgages, loans, credit cards, or outstanding bills. We ensure debts are identified, verified, and paid in the correct order of priority, protecting executors from potential liability.

4. Defend legal actions

Sometimes estates face legal challenges — such as disputes about the validity of a will, family provision claims, or disagreements between beneficiaries. Parke Lawyers has been recognised by Doyle’s Guide as a leading law firm in estates litigation. We represent executors and beneficiaries in defending claims, with a strong track record of resolving matters efficiently, often at mediation before reaching court.

5. Lodge tax returns

Executors are responsible for ensuring the deceased’s final tax return is completed, and in some cases, an estate tax return may also be required. Our team works with accountants and tax professionals to ensure all obligations are met, reducing the risk of penalties or disputes with the ATO.

6. Distribute assets

Once debts, taxes, and any legal claims have been resolved, the executor can distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries in line with the will (or intestacy laws if no will exists). Parke Lawyers provides clear advice to ensure distributions are fair, transparent, and legally compliant.

Why choose Parke Lawyers?

Administering an estate can be complex and emotionally taxing. At Parke Lawyers, you are in safe hands:

• We have been recognised by Doyle’s Guide as Leading Wills & Estates Lawyers and Leading Estates Litigation Lawyers in Victoria.
• Our Managing Director is an Accredited Specialist Commercial Lawyer and Certified Practising Accountant with decades of legal and financial experience, offering clients unique expertise in both law and accounting.
• Our team provides step-by-step guidance for executors and administrators, strong representation in disputes, and clear advice on tax, financial, and legal issues.
• Above all, we combine professionalism with compassion, supporting you through a difficult time with care and understanding.