What Is Probate?

Probate & Administration refers to the legal process of confirming the authenticity of a will, appointing an executor or administrator, and distributing the deceased’s estate according to law.

If a valid will exists, it is executed in accordance with its terms.
In the absence of a will, the estate will be administered according to the Intestates’ Estates Ordinance (Cap. 73 of the Laws of Hong Kong).

The Role of the Hong Kong High Court Probate Registry

The Probate Registry of the High Court of Hong Kong is the sole authority responsible for probate matters. Executors or administrators must submit applications with supporting documents such as the will, death certificate, and asset inventory. Once approved, the court will issue a legally binding Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration, authorizing the holder to:

• Collect the deceased’s bank deposits, stocks, MPF, and other assets;
• Transfer, sell, or distribute real property;
• Settle debts and finalize accounts;
• Distribute assets to beneficiaries under law or will provisions.

Lifetime Asset Transfer vs. Probate

Some individuals choose to transfer property, shares, or cash to family members during their lifetime, often by gift or at nominal value. While this can reduce the need for probate procedures later, it must be handled carefully to avoid tax or asset protection issues. We provide legal consultation on lifetime gifts and asset transfer to help clients evaluate risks and design the most suitable plan.

Our Professional Expertise & Experience

• High-Value Estates: Successfully handled estate distributions exceeding HK$100 million, including cross-border assets and offshore wills.
• Family Dispute Mediation: Facilitated fair settlements through mediation, reducing conflicts and litigation risks.
• Will Drafting & Review: Prepared thousands of wills, from simple standard forms to complex bespoke wills involving trusts and charitable gifts.
• Business Succession Planning: Advised company directors on shareholding succession and family business transition.
• Asset Tracing & Account Clearance: Assisted beneficiaries in locating estate assets, clearing accounts, and unfreezing bank accounts.

Why Choose Yip Tse Tang Solicitors

The Yip Tse Tang Solicitors probate team is highly regarded in Hong Kong’s legal community. We combine professionalism, experience, and compassion to ensure every client receives clear guidance and steady support during difficult times.

• Over 30 years of experience in Hong Kong estate and probate law.
• Expertise in cross-border estates, family trusts, and international asset distribution.
• Comprehensive one-stop service: will drafting, probate application, and asset distribution.
• Transparent pricing and efficient, compliant processes.
• Multiple offices across Hong Kong, Kowloon, and the New Territories for client convenience.

Selected Case Highlights

• Assisted overseas beneficiaries in successfully obtaining probate and accessing Hong Kong bank assets and MPF accounts.
• Resolved multiple inheritance disputes through mediation, avoiding lengthy court proceedings.
• Structured lifetime trusts for business owners to ensure smooth transfer of company shares to heirs.
• Handled estate cleanup involving multiple bank accounts and real properties, with full estate reporting and compliance.