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Estate Distribution & Administration Lawyers in Queensland

Managing an Estate

CONTACT US

Expert Guidance When Managing an Estate

Losing a loved one is never easy. At Bennett Carroll Solicitors, we provide compassionate, expert legal support to help you navigate estate administration and probate across Queensland.

Our experienced lawyers guide you through every step — from applying for probate to distributing assets to beneficiaries — making the process as simple and stress-free as possible. We offer flexible services electronically via phone, email, or video, with optional in-person appointments at our South East Queensland offices in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Ipswich.

Contact our estate lawyers today for professional estate administration support. 

Our Services

  • Probate Applications: Prepare and lodge probate to obtain legal authority to administer an estate.

 

  • Estate Administration: Assist executors in gathering assets, paying debts, and distributing property.

 

  • Asset Distribution: Ensure the estate is distributed according to the Will or laws of intestacy.

 

  • Executor Guidance: Advise on duties, obligations, and legal responsibilities.

Why Use Our Services

  • Avoid costly mistakes during estate administration
  • Resolve delays or conflicts with beneficiaries
  • Expert guidance through Queensland probate laws and procedures
  • Peace of mind for families during difficult times

 

Need help managing an estate? Contact our Queensland wills and estates lawyers today for professional guidance.

: Navigate the complexities of will & estate administration with Bennett Carroll Solicitors. Expert guidance on probate, asset distribution, and executor duties. Brisbane, Gold coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich, Queensland

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Estate Administration Services

Probate Applications – Get Legal Authority to Administer the Estate

Probate is the legal process of proving a Will is valid and obtaining court authority to administer the estate. We guide executors through every step in Queensland.

We help with:

  • Preparing probate applications
  • Gathering required documentation
  • Court filing and representation
  • Obtaining Letters of Probate
  • Dealing with complex estates

Letters of Administration – When There’s No Will

If someone dies intestate (without a valid Will), Letters of Administration may be required to legally administer their estate. We assist administrators in obtaining these essential documents

Estate Administration Support – Complete Guidance for Executors & Administrators

Being an executor or administrator can be overwhelming. We provide comprehensive support throughout the estate administration process.

Our support includes:

  • Asset identification and valuation
  • Debt and liability management
  • Tax obligations and returns
  • Beneficiary communication
  • Asset distribution
  • Final estate accounting

The Estate Administration Process

Step 1: Initial Assessment
  • Locate and review the Will
  • Identify assets and liabilities
  • Determine if probate is required
  • Assess any immediate needs
Step 2: Legal Documentation
  • Apply for probate or letters of administration
  • Obtain necessary court orders
  • Register death with relevant authorities
  • Secure estate assets
Step 3: Estate Management
  • Value all estate assets
  • Pay debts and funeral expenses
  • Lodge tax returns
  • Manage ongoing estate matters
Step 4: Distribution
  • Distribute assets according to the Will
  • Obtain beneficiary receipts
  • Prepare final estate accounts
  • Complete estate administration

What Happens When There’s No Will? Intestacy in Queensland

If someone dies without a valid Will, their estate is distributed according to fixed legal formulas under the Succession Act 1981 (Qld).

Intestacy rules prioritise:

  1. Spouse and children
  2. Parents
  3. Siblings
  4. Other relatives in order of priority

Consequences of intestacy:

  • Assets distributed by legal formula, not personal wishes
  • Potential family disputes
  • Delays in estate administration
  • Higher legal and administrative costs
  • No provision for stepchildren (in most cases)
  • No charitable gifts

[Learn more about what happens if you die without a Will → click here]

Executor Duties and Responsibilities

Executors have significant legal duties, including:

  • Acting in the best interests of beneficiaries
  • Preserving and protecting estate assets
  • Paying debts and expenses
  • Distributing assets according to the Will
  • Keeping accurate records
  • Communicating with beneficiaries

Common Executor Challenges:

  • Complex asset valuations
  • Dealing with disputes between beneficiaries
  • Managing business interests
  • Tax obligations and returns
  • Time-consuming administrative tasks

[Read: What Can Beneficiaries Do When Executors Delay? → click here]

When You Need Professional Help

Estate administration can be complex, especially with:

  • Substantial or complex estates
  • Business interests
  • Property in multiple states
  • Family disputes
  • Tax complications
  • Overseas assets
  • Blended families

 

Our experienced estate lawyers can handle the entire process or assist with specific aspects, allowing you to focus on what matters most during this difficult time. Contact us today. 

Get in Touch with Our Legal Team

We help Queenslanders protect what matters most with simple, secure legal solutions. Whether you need a new Will, an Enduring Power of Attorney, assistance administering an estate, or legal support in a dispute, our experienced team is ready to help. Bennett Carroll Solicitors provides trusted legal advice in Queensland with offices across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast and Ipswich.
Contact Us

WILLS & ESTATES RESOURCES

Who to Notify: The Estate Administration & Planning Checklist

The stress of estate administration is often caused by not knowing who to call and not having the account details ready. Our comprehensive checklist solves both problems.

Click below to receive our Deceased Estate Notification Checklist—a vital tool for both planning and administering an estate.

✅ Planning Ahead: Fill it out now to record your crucial contacts, saving your family weeks of searching later.

✅ Administering an Estate: Use it as a definitive roadmap to ensure every essential person and organisation is notified.

✅ Covers 40+ Contacts: From the ATO to Banks and Digital Accounts.

✅ Free Download, created by our Wills & Estates Solicitors.

📩 Click here to download your free checklist.

Access Our Guide: What To Do After a Loved One Dies in Queensland

Losing a loved one is overwhelming. Before you take any administrative steps, ensure you have the correct legal information specific to Queensland.

Click below to instantly read our expert guide on the immediate legal steps and obligations following a death.

✅ Covers the crucial first 48 hours and necessary legal registrations.

✅ Focuses on legal and administrative requirements specific to Queensland law (Probate, Death Certificates, etc.).

✅ Details the roles and duties of the Executor and next steps for the estate.

✅ Written by our Wills & Estates solicitors to help you navigate this difficult time.

➡️ Click here to read the full guide now.

Common Estate Planning Questions

What is Probate and do I need it?

Probate is a legal process by which a Court gives the executor authority to administer the deceased person’s estate under the Will. You’ll usually need Probate if the estate includes real property, bank accounts in the deceased’s name, or assets that institutions require formal proof. There’s a guide here: Why do I need a Grant of Probate?

How long does probate take in Queensland?

Probate timeframes vary, but in Queensland the process typically takes 6–12 weeks once your application is lodged with the Supreme Court, provided there are no complications. Delays can occur if:

  • The Will is contested or unclear

  • Additional notices or searches are required

  • The Court has a backlog

  • There are errors in the application

It’s important to note that Probate is usually only one stage in administering an estate — the full estate administration and distribution process can take several months (or longer for complex estates).

What happens to a house when someone dies?

The transfer of a deceased person’s house depends on several factors: whether the property was solely in their name; whether Probate or a Grant of Administration is required; whether there is a mortgage or other liabilities; and whether there are beneficiaries named in the Will. Legal steps include obtaining Probate or letters of administration, registering title transfer, and paying any taxes or liabilities. More details: What Happens to a House When Someone Dies — Estate Transfers & Legal Steps

What should I expect when I’m the executor of an estate?

Being executor involves both administrative and legal tasks, often including gathering all assets, lodging probate (if required), planning for creditor claims and tax, accounting to beneficiaries, and legal transfers of property. The process can be time-consuming, especially for larger or more complex estates. More here: What to Expect When You Are the Executor of an Estate in Queensland

What are an executor’s responsibilities in Queensland?

Executors must carry out a number of duties under Queensland law, such as applying for Probate if needed, identifying and securing assets, notifying beneficiaries, paying debts and expenses, distributing assets per the Will, and ensuring legal compliance throughout. For details: Advice for Executors in Queensland: Key Considerations & Responsibilities

What are an executor’s responsibilities in Queensland?

Executors must carry out a number of duties under Queensland law, such as applying for Probate if needed, identifying and securing assets, notifying beneficiaries, paying debts and expenses, distributing assets per the Will, and ensuring legal compliance throughout. For details: Advice for Executors in Queensland: Key Considerations & Responsibilities

How much does estate administration cost?

Costs vary depending on estate complexity. We provide transparent fee structures. 

Get Expert Estate Administration Support

Don’t navigate estate administration alone. Our experienced Queensland lawyers are here to guide you through every step with compassion and expertise.

📍  Queensland-wide service with offices in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast & Ipswich
📞 1300 334 566
📧 info@bcglaw.com.au
💬 Or contact us online

Office Locations:

  • Brisbane North – Stafford
  • Brisbane South – Upper Mount Gravatt
  • Sunshine Coast – Kawana
  • Gold Coast – Mermaid Beach
  • Ipswich – By Appointment Only
  • Brisbane Central – By Appointment Only

Most estate matters are resolved without needing to visit our offices – we provide full electronic support across Queensland.

When you're dealing with loss, let us handle the legal complexities. Contact our compassionate estate administration team today.

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Helpful Government & Legal Resources

  • Queensland Government – Making a Will

  • EPOAs- Office of Public Guardian QLD

  • Advanced Health Directives- QLD Government 
Serving Clients Across Queensland
Bennett Carroll Solicitors is a proud member of the Queensland Law Society (QLS)

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  • Brisbane Central- By Appointment Only

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