Best Probate Lawyers in Australia

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MST Lawyers

MST Lawyers

Mount Waverley, Australia

Founded in 1950
200 people in their team
ABOUT MST LAWYERSMST Lawyers is a progressive law firm comprising some 60 dedicated Lawyers and support staff. MST has grown from a small firm...
English
Ogilvie Jennings

Ogilvie Jennings

Hobart, Australia

Founded in 2001
50 people in their team
About usOgilvie Jennings is a leading dynamic and progressive Tasmanian law firm. From our Hobart, Kingston and Glenorchy offices, we provide...
English
Michael Birch

Michael Birch

Hurstville, Australia

Founded in 1987
2 people in their team
AboutMichael Birch graduated from Macquarie University in 1982 with a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Laws degrees. Michael was admitted as a...
English
Avenue Legal

Avenue Legal

Hurstville, Australia

Founded in 2000
25 people in their team
Welcome to Avenue LegalAvenue Legal aims  to deliver a quality service adopting a practical and realistic approach to each matter, characterised...
English
Jovanovic Lawyers & Conveyancing

Jovanovic Lawyers & Conveyancing

Hobart, Australia

Founded in 1992
2 people in their team
Jeanette JovanovicJeanette Jovanovic is an experienced litigation lawyer specialising in personal injury law, workers compensation, commercial law,...
English
Jorian Blanch & Co

Jorian Blanch & Co

Turramurra, Australia

Founded in 1972
1 people in their team
Jorian Blanch & Co. Solicitors was established over 50 years ago by Jorian Blanch. In 2008, the firm combined with F. E. Fischer & Co. of...
English
ROBINSON GILL LAWYERS

ROBINSON GILL LAWYERS

Box Hill, Australia

Founded in 1979
50 people in their team
There's no firm quite like us.We’ve set out to build a law firm that can help people with the issues that matter to them - whether that be in their...
English
Chinese
Anvil Legal

Anvil Legal

Perth, Australia

Founded in 2012
10 people in their team
HISTORYMy name is Brett Owen & I am the founder and Principal Lawyer here at Anvil Legal.To give you an idea of why we focus on workers’...
English
Simmons Wolfhagen Lawyers

Simmons Wolfhagen Lawyers

Hobart, Australia

Founded in 2000
200 people in their team
About usWe’re a long-established Tasmanian legal firm, with a modern attitude and progressive approach.The Simmons Wolfhagen philosophy is to use...
English
Chinese
Bolden Lawyers

Bolden Lawyers

Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 1993
2 people in their team
About Hercules Constan Lawyers is a boutique law practice established in 1993. It is located close to Melbourne’s CBD on St Kilda Road,...
English

About Probate Law in Australia

Probate is the legal process of proving and registering the last will of a deceased person. It ensures that the deceased person's assets are distributed according to their wishes as outlined in their will. In Australia, each state and territory has its own regulations governing probate, so it's essential to understand the specific laws in your area.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where you may require the assistance of a lawyer in probate matters. These include disputes between family members regarding the distribution of assets, contested wills, complex estates, or if you are unsure about your legal rights and obligations during the probate process. A lawyer can provide expert guidance and help navigate through the complexities of probate law.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of probate law in Australia include the requirement for the executor named in the will to apply for probate, the need to notify beneficiaries and creditors, the distribution of assets according to the will, and potential challenges to the validity of the will. Each state and territory may have specific requirements, so it's important to consult with a lawyer familiar with the laws in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is probate?

Probate is the legal process of proving and registering the last will of a deceased person.

2. Who can apply for probate?

The executor of the will is usually the person who applies for probate. If there is no executor named or the named executor is unable to apply, other eligible individuals may apply.

3. How long does probate take?

The timeframe for probate can vary depending on the complexity of the estate and any potential challenges. On average, probate can take several months to complete.

4. What happens if there is no will?

If there is no will, the deceased person's assets will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy in the applicable state or territory.

5. Can a will be contested?

Yes, a will can be contested on various grounds, such as lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, or fraud. It's important to seek legal advice if you believe a will is invalid.

6. What are the duties of an executor?

The executor is responsible for administering the estate, including gathering and valuing assets, paying debts and taxes, distributing assets to beneficiaries, and applying for probate.

7. Do I need a lawyer for probate?

While it's not a legal requirement to have a lawyer for probate, it is highly recommended, especially in cases of complex estates or disputes among beneficiaries.

8. How much does probate cost?

The cost of probate can vary depending on the size and complexity of the estate. It may include court fees, legal fees, and other expenses related to administering the estate.

9. What assets are included in probate?

Assets that are solely owned by the deceased person are typically included in the probate process. This may include real estate, bank accounts, investments, and personal belongings.

10. How can I challenge a will?

If you believe a will is invalid, you can challenge it through the courts by filing a formal claim. Grounds for challenging a will may include lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, or fraud.

Additional Resources

For more information on probate law in Australia, you can consult the respective state or territory courts, legal aid organizations, or the Law Society of Australia. These resources can provide valuable guidance and support for individuals in need of legal assistance in probate matters.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in probate matters, the best course of action is to consult with a qualified probate lawyer in your area. They can provide expert advice tailored to your specific situation and help you navigate through the probate process with confidence. Don't hesitate to seek legal help if you are unsure about your rights and obligations in probate law.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.