What is probate? The Process in NZ

9 March, 2012 | Mimi Lewell

If a person dies with more than $15,000 assets in his or her name, and a valid will, then Probate will have to be obtained in order to administer the estate.  Obtaining Probate is the process of proving the will to the High Court and having the will formally accepted as the person’s last will. The Probate document states that the executors named in the will have the authority to administer the estate, meaning that they can start the process of bringing in the assets and paying the debts of the estate.

If the person who died did not have a valid will, then Letters of Administration will have to be obtained.

If you have any questions regarding probate, or wish to seek advice regarding administering a deceased estate, please contact our Estates Administator, Mimi Lewell by phone on 09 837 6831 or email mimi.lewell@smithpartners.co.nz