Estate administration is the process of:

✔ Identifying and gathering assets (bank accounts, property, investments)
✔ Paying off debts, taxes, and final expenses
✔ Distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries

If the deceased had a will, the executor (the person named in the will) is responsible for handling this process. If there’s no will, the court will appoint an estate administrator—usually a close family member.

The executor (or estate administrator) has a legal duty to:

✔ Locate and secure the deceased’s assets
✔ Notify banks, government agencies, and creditors
✔ File final tax returns and pay debts
✔ Distribute the estate to beneficiaries according to the will—or B.C. law if there’s no will

This process can be complex and time-consuming, especially if there are family disputes, missing documents, or tax complications. We help executors navigate the process smoothly and avoid costly mistakes.

If someone dies without a will (intestate), their estate is distributed according to B.C.’s Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA). This means:

• The spouse and children inherit first.

• If no spouse or children, assets go to other relatives.

• The court appoints an administrator to handle the estate (often a family member).

Without a will, estate administration is often more complicated and takes longer—but we can help simplify the process.

Probate is a court process that confirms the will is valid and gives the executor legal authority to manage the estate. You may need probate if:

• The estate includes real estate or significant assets.

• Banks or financial institutions require it to release funds.

• There are concerns about the validity of the will.

Not every estate needs probate, but we can help you determine whether it’s necessary.

It depends. A simple estate (with a valid will and no disputes) can take 6–12 months. More complex estates, especially those involving probate, business assets, or family conflicts, may take 1–2 years or longer.

Yes. In British Columbia, executors can be compensated for their work. The fee is typically up to 5% of the estate’s total value, depending on the complexity of the job. Executors can also be reimbursed for reasonable expenses.

Disagreements can arise over:

• Who gets what (especially if the will is unclear or missing).

• Executor decisions (if beneficiaries think the estate is being mismanaged).

• Family members left out of the will who want to challenge it.

We help resolve estate disputes—through negotiation, mediation, or legal action if necessary—so the estate can be settled fairly and efficiently.

Estate administration is a big responsibility, but you don’t have to handle it alone. At Mahogany Law Group, we assist executors, administrators, and families with everything from probate applications to tax filings and asset distribution.

Reach out today to get started.