When a person dies without leaving a will, they are said to die intestate. Letters of Administration must be obtained from the Supreme Court of Victoria if the estate includes real property or is over a certain value. The order gives the legal right for someone to administer the estate. An application for Letters of Administration is typically made by:
- husband or wife
- one or more of the children
- a trustee if there is no other appropriate next of kin will to apply
- any other person the court considers fit
A person appointed under Letters of Administration is the Administrator of the estate.
Our expert Wills & Estates lawyers can prepare the application to the Supreme Court and assist Administrators in the distribution of the estate. Wherever possible, it is best to apply within six months of the passing of the deceased. Applying after that time requires additional work and expense.
