Wills, Probate & Estate Administration in Penang

Protecting your legacy and guiding your family

Planning ahead with a proper will gives your family clarity and peace of mind, and avoids unnecessary complications later. When a loved one passes away, sorting out their estate can feel confusing and stressful. Khaw Ewe Seng & Co. assists Penang families on both sides of this: preparing wills today, and guiding families through estate administration when the time comes.

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How we help

• Drafting and reviewing wills

• Applying for a Grant of Probate (when there is a will)

• Applying for Letters of Administration (when there is no will)

• Small estate distribution through the Land Office

• Distribution and transfer of the deceased's property and assets

• Advice on trusts and estate planning

• Drafting and reviewing Trust Deed

• Drafting and reviewing Power of Attorney

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Understanding the main routes

If the deceased left a valid will, the named executor applies for a Grant of Probate. If there is no will, a family member usually applies for Letters of Administration so the estate can be distributed according to law. Where the estate is classed as a 'small estate' (currently estates up to RM5 million, including both property and other assets), it can be handled more simply through the Land Office. We will assess your situation and recommend the most straightforward route.

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

 

Why do I need a will?

A will lets you decide who inherits your assets, name guardians for young children, and choose someone you trust to manage your estate. Without a will, your estate is distributed according to a fixed legal formula, which may not reflect your wishes and can take longer to resolve.

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What happens if someone dies without a will?

The estate is distributed according to the rules set out in law, and a family member must apply for Letters of Administration before the assets can be dealt with. We can guide your family through this process from start to finish.

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What is the difference between probate and letters of administration?

A Grant of Probate is obtained when there is a valid will, confirming the executor's authority to carry it out. Letters of Administration are obtained when there is no will, appointing someone to administer and distribute the estate according to law.

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What is 'small estate' distribution?

When an estate includes property and falls within the small-estate value limit (currently up to RM5 million), it can be administered through the Land Office rather than the High Court. This is often a simpler and more cost-effective route, and we can handle the application for you.

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How long does estate administration take?

It depends on the size and complexity of the estate, whether there is a will, and whether all beneficiaries cooperate. Straightforward estates move faster; those with multiple properties or disputes take longer. We will give you a realistic timeline.