Probate & Administration
Compassionate legal support during a difficult time
Losing a loved one is never easy. Dealing with their estate and legal affairs can add stress to an already emotional time. At Kruse Legal, we provide compassionate, practical guidance through the probate and estate administration process, so you can focus on what matters most.
Based in Blackwood, we’ve helped families across the Adelaide Hills manage deceased estates since 2011. Whether you’re the executor of a Will or navigating a situation where no Will exists, we’re here to make sure everything is handled legally, efficiently, and with care.
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal process of proving that a Will is valid and confirming the authority of the executor to administer the estate. If there is no Will, a close family member may need to apply for Letters of Administration instead.
These court-issued documents are often necessary to:
- Access the deceased’s bank accounts
- Transfer property or vehicles
- Deal with superannuation or life insurance
- Finalise other estate matters
Applying for Probate or Letters of Administration in South Australia can be complex, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
How Our Probate Lawyers Can Help
We offer step-by-step legal support with:
- Applying for Probate or Letters of Administration
- Explaining the legal duties of executors and administrators
- Identifying and valuing estate assets
- Paying outstanding debts and distributing inheritances
- Handling superannuation, life insurance, and tax obligations
- Advising on estate disputes, contested Wills, or family provision claims
Whether the estate is straightforward or more complex, we’ll guide you through the process with clarity and care.
Why Choose Kruse Legal?
✔ Over 11 years experience in wills and estates law
✔ Local, approachable team based in Blackwood
✔ Personalised, plain English advice—no legal jargon
✔ Trusted by families across the Adelaide Hills
You’ll work directly with an experienced solicitor who takes the time to understand your situation and support you through every stage of the process.
Need help managing an estate?
Call us on (08) 8278 1779 or contact us online to speak with one of our friendly team members.
Probate & Administration - Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Whether probate is required in South Australia depends on the size and type of the estate. If the deceased owned real estate or held significant funds with banks or financial institutions, probate is usually required, even if there is a valid Will. We can review the estate and let you know what's needed.
If a person dies without a Will (known as dying intestate), a family member (usually a spouse or child) will need to apply for Letters of Administration. The law outlines who is eligible to apply and how the estate is distributed. We can guide you through the application process and ensure everything is done correctly.
On average, probate applications take 4–6 weeks from submission to approval by the Supreme Court. The full estate administration process can take several months, depending on the size and complexity of the estate. Delays may occur if documents are missing or if disputes arise.
Costs will depend on the estate's complexity. At Kruse Legal, we offer clear, upfront pricing. Get in touch for a personalised quote based on your circumstances.
Yes, you can apply for probate yourself, but many people choose to use a solicitor due to complexities involved in the application. There are significant rules (and unwritten rules!) that need to be followed when making an application for Probate and Letters of Administration. Mistakes can delay the process and can be difficult to navigate. We make the process easier and ensure everything is handled professionally.
Yes. A Will can be challenged in certain circumstances—for example, if a close family member was left out or did not receive a fair share. This is known as a Family Provision Claim. The new Succession Act 2023 has implemented significant changes in how these claims are approached. We can advise you if you are contesting a Will or defending one that is being challenged.