After a loved one passes away, someone must manage their money, property, and possessions—collectively known as their estate. This includes paying any debts or taxes and distributing assets to the people entitled to inherit.
If the deceased left a will, the person responsible for handling the estate is called the executor. If there is no will, a close relative may need to be appointed as an administrator by the court before they can manage the estate.
Probate is the legal process for applying for the authority to deal with a deceased person’s affairs. Executors apply for a grant of probate, a legal document confirming their right to manage the estate, access funds, and distribute assets according to the will.
If there is no will, a close relative applies for a grant of letters of administration. Once issued, this confirms their authority to manage the estate. In some cases, such as when beneficiaries are children, more than one administrator may be required.
Managing an estate can range from straightforward to complex. Some families choose to handle aspects themselves, while others prefer to seek specialist advice to ensure everything is carried out correctly.
From start to finish, Jane, Elizabeth and Dawn were very kind and respectful, and on the day of the funeral, James made everything very easy. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this Company.
Exemplary and highly professional service throughout, with every effort made to accommodate the wishes of the family. Would highly recommend to anyone faced with having to arrange a funeral.
I’ve never lost a parent and didn’t have a clue what I should be doing - James made us feel very relaxed, made sure that our mum would be well looked after with him which gave us comfort. The celebrant he chose was absolutely brilliant and really made the whole experience extremely personal to us. James even sourced out a Leopard print coffin for us - the first in 22 years apparently! Would really recommend
James was incredibly understanding and dealt with a difficult situation with care and attention. Nothing was too much trouble.
Sarah really put our family at ease and was very helpful. Made a very difficult thing to do a lot easier. Would highly recommend their services.
Extremely kind & considerate. Very professional. I felt supported throughout a very difficult process. Jane was fantastic, sensitive and caring and made me feel that she truly understood and cared about us all.
James was kind, thoughtful and respectful. He gently guided us through the entire process with patience. This entire experience was a first for us and at one of the saddest and most traumatic times we felt as supported as possible. We would 100% recommend James and his team for the specialised and thoughtful work they do.
James handled the funerals of both my mother and father, and in both cases everything went very smoothly and was done with great dignity. We could not have asked for more.
James and his team were extremely kind, thoughtful ad professional. As a family we appreciated the help and advice that was given.
© James Keen Independent Funeral Directors 2026
Website by Eldo™