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Professional Administration Appointments
Appointing an experienced, independent professional as executor or administrator can help resolve complexity and reduce conflict in an estate. At HOCW, Director and Principal Lawyer Lachlan Vallance is a recognised independent administrator and trustee for high‑net‑worth and complex estates. Since 2022, he has received close to 30 appointments from the Supreme Court of Victoria to manage long‑running, high‑conflict estates, including resolving disputes, rectifying errors, investigating misappropriation and ensuring compliance with court orders and legal obligations.
Supported by our dedicated Wills & Estates team, Lachlan’s expertise underpins the firm’s reputation as one of Victoria’s leading legal practices for complex estate management. We can act as court‑appointed administrators or as professional executors and trustees under wills and trusts, providing continuity, neutrality and rigorous governance for families, beneficiaries and other advisers.
When a professional administrator can help
A professional administrator or executor may be appropriate where:
There is significant conflict between family members or beneficiaries
The estate is high‑value, complex or involves business, trust or SMSF interests
There are concerns about mismanagement, misappropriation or past errors
An existing executor is unable or unwilling to act or needs to be replaced.
In these situations, a professional appointment can stabilise the estate, restore confidence and help move matters toward resolution.
How we work with families and advisers
We work collaboratively with beneficiaries, accountants, financial advisers and other lawyers to understand the estate’s history and current issues. Our role includes gathering and reviewing information, taking control of estate assets, investigating concerns where required, and implementing practical strategies to administer and, where possible, finalise the estate in a timely and transparent way.
Talk to us about professional appointments
If you are involved in a difficult or complex estate and believe an independent professional executor or administrator may be needed, we can explain the options and potential pathways through the Supreme Court or by agreement. Contact our Wills & Estates team to discuss whether a professional administration appointment is appropriate in your situation.
FAQs: Common questions about professional executors, administrators and trustees are answered below.
Frequently asked questions about professional executors and administrators
What is a professional executor or administrator?
A professional executor or administrator is an independent person or firm, such as an experienced wills and estates lawyer, appointed to manage and distribute a deceased estate. They bring specialist knowledge and objectivity to the role.
When might I appoint a professional executor or administrator?
You might appoint a professional executor or administrator where your estate is complex, involves a business or trusts, or where there is a risk of family conflict. It can also be appropriate if family members are unwilling, unable or unsuitable to act.
What does a professional executor or administrator do in Victoria?
A professional executor or administrator applies for probate or letters of administration if required, collects and protects estate assets, pays valid debts and taxes, and distributes the estate according to the will or intestacy laws in Victoria. They also keep proper records and communicate with beneficiaries.
What are the benefits of appointing a professional executor or trustee?
A professional executor or trustee helps ensure the estate or trust is administered efficiently, impartially and in accordance with the law. This can reduce the burden on family members and help manage the risk of disputes.
How are professional executors or administrators paid?
Professional executors and administrators are usually paid a fee for their work, which is often agreed with beneficiaries or approved by the court. Fees are paid from the estate or trust and should be reasonable in light of the complexity of the matter and the work involved.