Family and estates

Letters of administration in Delta State, step by step

When a parent dies without a will, families often wait too long to apply. Here is the process, the papers and the timing.

By Ufuoma Akpobire (example)

When a parent dies without a will, families often wait too long to apply for letters of administration. Bank accounts stay frozen, rent goes uncollected and disagreements grow. Starting early helps everyone.

The application is made to the probate registry of the High Court. You will need the death certificate, a list of the assets and debts, details of the next of kin and two sureties, and the consent of the family members entitled to the estate.

The registry publishes a notice so that anyone with an objection can come forward. If there is no objection, and the estate duty and fees are paid, the letters are issued to the administrators, usually two family members.

Two women, one young and one older, sitting together

With the letters, the administrators can collect the assets, pay any debts and share what remains according to law and any agreement the family makes. We write that agreement down so it holds.

Timing depends on the estate and the registry, but six to twelve months is common. A clear family meeting at the start saves months later.

General information, not legal advice for your matter.

Summary