Dhindsa-Law-icon-iLAW-OFFICE
Consult Lawyer
Estate Administration

Centobin Law - Estate Administration & Probate Services in Calgary

Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with legal complexities after a death can be overwhelming. Centobin Law provides trusted, experienced, and empathetic Estate Administration services in Calgary to guide you through this process smoothly, legally, and respectfully.

We assist executors, personal representatives, and families with every stage of Calgary estate administration, including probate applications, intestate estates, asset distribution, and legal compliance under Alberta law.

Whether handling a simple will or navigating the legal maze of an estate without one, our team of Calgary Estate Administration lawyers ensures you're supported at every step, with clarity and compassion.

What Is Estate Administration?

Estate Administration refers to the legal process of managing and settling a deceased person's affairs, including:

This process is required whether or not a valid will exists. If there is a will, the Executor named in the document is responsible. A court-appointed Personal Representative takes on the role if there's no will.

Centobin Law offers end-to-end support so that nothing is missed—legally, financially, or emotionally. We are a trusted partner for Estate Administration in Calgary, whether you're facing a straightforward or more complex situation involving blended families, business assets, or cross-border concerns.

Estate Administration
Talk To Expert
+1 (866)-395-3232
Estate Administration

Personal Representative vs. Executor: What's the Difference?

The terms Executor and Personal Representative are often used interchangeably, but Alberta law makes a clear distinction:

So, in Alberta, an Executor is a Personal Representative, but not all Personal Representatives are Executors.

Key responsibilities include:

If you've been named a Personal Representative and don't know where to begin, our Calgary Estate Administration lawyers are ready to help.

Personal Representative vs. Executor: What's the Difference?

The terms Executor and Personal Representative are often used interchangeably, but Alberta law makes a clear distinction:

So, in Alberta, an Executor is a Personal Representative, but not all Personal Representatives are Executors.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Applying for a Grant of Probate or Administration
  • Communicating with beneficiaries
  • Managing estate assets and debts
  • Final distribution and reporting

If you've been named a Personal Representative and don't know where to begin, our Calgary Estate Administration lawyers are ready to help.

Do All Estates Require Administration?

Not necessarily. Calgary Estate Administration is not always required if:

  • The estate is small and straightforward
  • All assets were jointly owned with the right of survivorship
  • There is no real estate, and all assets are designated (e.g., RRSPs with beneficiaries)

However, if real property or financial institutions require proof of authority, probate or administration is necessary.

What Happens If There Is No Will?

If someone passes away without a will (intestate), the estate is distributed based on Alberta law. This means:

  • A close family member (e.g., spouse, adult child) must apply for a Grant of Administration
  • The estate will be divided among heirs according to the Wills and Succession Act
  • You cannot choose who manages the estate or who receives assets

Centobin Law specializes in Estate Administration for intestate estates in Calgary. We'll help you:

  • Apply for a Grant of Administration
  • Determine who is entitled to inherit
  • Manage family communication and legal risks
  • Handle asset division, even in complex family scenarios

How Is an Estate Administered in Alberta?

Estate Administration in Alberta is a legally regulated, step-by-step process. Here's how it typically works:

Confirm the Existence of a Will

If there is a will, the named Executor must apply for a Grant of Probate. If there is no will, a close relative or other stakeholder may apply for a Grant of Administration.

Asset & Debt Inventory

All property, investments, accounts, and debts are identified and valued. This includes:

  • Real estate (residence, rental, land)
  • Bank accounts and investment portfolios
  • Vehicles and valuable personal property
  • Unpaid taxes or loans
  • Funeral expenses and legal fees
Estate Administration

Apply for Grant of Probate / Administration

This legal step gives the representative authority to manage the estate. We prepare and file all documents required by the Surrogate Court of Alberta.

Notification & Communication

Notices are sent to:

  • Beneficiaries named in the will
  • Legal heirs (if no will exists)
  • Creditors
  • Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

Debt Settlement & Tax Filing

We ensure:

  • Debts are paid in the correct legal order
  • Final tax return is filed with CRA
  • Clearance Certificate is requested (to prevent future liability)
Talk To Our Expert

Why Choose Our Calgary Estate Administration Lawyers?

Choosing the right legal team for Estate Administration in Calgary makes a major difference. Here's why families choose Centobin Law:

Estate Administration

What Makes Us Different:

law
Experience in Alberta Estates
Decades of local estate law experience, probate court familiarity, and up-to-date legal knowledge.
law
Meticulous Legal Work
Nothing falls through the cracks. We're detail-oriented and legally thorough.
law
Flexible Access
Virtual consultations are available for out-of-town executors and family members.
law
Discreet & Respectful Service
Estate matters are deeply personal. We handle them with care.
law
Clear Communication
We explain the process in plain language, keeping you informed and confident.
law
Compassionate, Client-First Approach
We treat your family like our own.

Contact us if you are looking for affordable family lawyers in Calgary. Our legal team will be happy to resolve your family's legal matters.

Contact Us to Schedule Your Consultation

Are you searching for the best family lawyer in Calgary? Centobin Law has got you covered.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you protect your rights and your family's future.

Our Step-by-Step Estate Administration Process

We manage every detail. You focus on healing.
At Centobin Law, we've refined our Estate Administration process into a clear and manageable journey:
Estate Administration

Initial Consultation (Free)

Get a clear picture of your responsibilities and next steps.

Legal Strategy & Document Prep

 We draft all required court and estate documents.

Asset & Debt Management

We gather, secure, and manage all estate finances and property.

CRA & Tax Compliance

We handle final returns, filings, and clearance certificate applications.

Distribution & Reporting

Beneficiaries are paid, final accounting is submitted, and the estate is legally closed.

Probate or Administration Filing

 We apply for legal authority to manage the estate.

Talk To Our Expert

Frequently Asked Questions

It's the legal process of managing and distributing a person's estate after death, including debts, taxes, and asset distribution.

Not legally—but mistakes can cause delays, disputes, and tax issues. A lawyer protects your time, legal liability, and peace of mind.

Absolutely. We serve clients across Alberta and can manage the entire process remotely.

Typically, it is 6–12 months, but longer for complex or contested estates.

We'll help you apply for a Grant of Administration and ensure legal asset division under Alberta law.

It’s helpful to bring any relevant documents, such as marriage certificates, separation agreements, and financial statements. This will allow us to understand your case and provide accurate advice.

If you encounter any legal issues, we are here to help.

testimonials

Hear from Our Satisfied Clients

envelopephonecrossmenuchevron-down linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram