Intestacy (estates without a will)

When a person passes away without a valid will, their estate is administered in accordance with statutory intestacy rules. These rules determine who is entitled to administer the estate and how assets are distributed, regardless of the deceased’s informal wishes or family expectations.

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Crownmark Lawyers assists families and administrators navigating intestate estates, providing guidance on entitlements, applications for letters of administration, and the orderly administration of the estate. Our approach is careful and structured, focused on compliance, clarity, and reducing the risk of disputes.

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Intestacy matters can be particularly complex where there are blended families, multiple relationships, or uncertainty about beneficiaries. We advise on eligibility to apply as administrator, the application process, and how assets are distributed under the applicable legislation.

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Where appropriate, we also provide advice on resolving disagreements between potential beneficiaries or administrators and on managing practical issues that arise during administration. In suitable matters, intestacy-related advice and applications may be offered on an agreed, fixed-fee basis through Crownmark Assured Pricing (CAP), providing clarity around scope and costs.

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Our services include:

• Advice on intestacy rules and beneficiary entitlements

• Assistance with letters of administration applications

• Guidance on administrator responsibilities

• Advice on distribution of intestate estates

• Support in managing disputes or competing claims

• Practical assistance throughout estate administration