Legal services

Managing the estate when someone dies

It’s important that you find out whether the deceased made a will and discover where it is located. If you cannot find the will, their solicitor may have a copy.

If there is a will

If your loved one has left a will, they will have typically chosen at least one person to act as the executor of the will; this is often a relative or close friend. The will may include instructions for funeral arrangements, which will need to be followed or taken into account when arranging your loved one’s funeral.

If you are the executor of the will, then it is your duty to identify the assets and debts of the estate and distribute them accordingly. Depending on the size of the estate and the kinds of asset within it, you may need to apply for probate.

If there is no will

If someone dies without making a will, they are said to have died ‘intestate’. You will need to decide who will sort out the deceased’s estate and contact the Probate Registry to apply for ‘letters of administration’.