Probate & Estate Administration
When a person dies their estate will require administration. This does not always mean that it is necessary to obtain a formal grant of probate. If an estate is very small or if particular asset holders agree, it may be the case that those assets can be released without formal probate. If your relative or loved one has recently passed away and you would like help and advice with probate and estate administration, please get in touch with one of our experts. We will be able to assess the particular circumstances of your case and explain exactly what procedure is appropriate. We appreciate that we see people at often very difficult times and we always provide a professional service yet in an empathetic and understanding way.
What is grant of probate
For larger or more complex estates a grant of probate will usually be required. A grant of probate is simply the court’s confirmation that what has been produced to them appears to be a valid will and upon receipt of the grant of probate the executors may then proceed to administer the estate. Our specialist team will guide you through the application process and deal with any queries of the court at what can be a very difficult, stressful and emotional time.
Granting probate and administering estates
For simple estates where the assets are straightforward we can offer a more limited service where we obtain the grant of probate for the executors who then deal with the actual administration of the estate themselves.
For more complex estates we provide a full service which would comprise not only the obtaining of the grant of probate but thereafter dealing with the administration of the estate. We would ensure that that all inheritance tax that is due is paid, that all debts and liabilities are paid and that the assets are correctly collected in and distributed to those entitled.
We are also happy to advise executors who are administering estates themselves but who may be encountering difficulties, for example, if there are assets held overseas or beneficiaries mentioned in the will who cannot be located.
The administration of an estate may also offer an opportunity for tax planning through a deed of variation and this is something we can advise on in appropriate circumstances.
Our team is made up of solicitors and legal executives who specialise in probate and estate administration and who comprise members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) and Solicitors for the Elderly. We have four offices in Surrey and Hampshire so please contact us for further information.
