SA probate where assets are overseas

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Kathy Adamson

Active Member
26 October 2019
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My father died in South Australia a year ago. He had a will that was prepared here. His only assets in South Australia were a bank account and a car, both of which were held as joint tenants with my mum. However, he had a house in Italy which was only in his name and which he left to me. My solicitor in Italy is demanding to see a grant of probate before the property in Italy can be transferred to me. Can I get probate in South Australia if there were no assets here that passed under the will?
 

Rob Legat - SBPL

Lawyer
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16 February 2017
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Yes. Probate has nothing to do with the assets. It is about proving the validity of the will.
 

Kathy Adamson

Active Member
26 October 2019
7
0
31
Yes. Probate has nothing to do with the assets. It is about proving the validity of the will.
Thank you. I am just a little concerned that the CourtsSA website says:
The Probate Registry of the Supreme Court of South Australia issues grants recognising that appointment of a legal personal representative. There must be an asset in South Australian for the Probate Registry to have jurisdiction to issue a grant – section 5 Administration and Probate Act 1919.
 

Rob Legat - SBPL

Lawyer
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16 February 2017
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Gold Coast, Queensland
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Assets were everything your father owned. The asset requirement is for jurisdictional purposes. He would have had something which validates theconnection if he resided in South Australia.