Probate and estate administration lawyers in Ipswich

First, locate the will and secure the assets: notify the banks and the super funds, make sure property is insured and the house is safe, and stop any payments that should stop. Then establish the picture, which means a full list of assets and liabilities, and lodging any outstanding tax returns along with a final return for the deceased and, if the estate earns income, returns for the estate.

Then pay the debts and the tax before anyone receives anything, because an executor who distributes first and finds a creditor second can be personally liable. Only then distribute, keeping records and obtaining releases. Timing matters too: an executor is generally advised not to distribute before six months from the date of death, and where a family provision claim looks possible, to wait until the nine month claim period has closed. Executors may also be entitled to commission for their work, which the court can allow, and beneficiaries are entitled to be kept informed.