Probate Solicitors

Let our probate lawyers help you.

We appreciate that the law relating to probate can be confusing. That’s why we aim to make it easier for you to understand and take the pressure off you and ensure that the wishes of the deceased are carried out so that assets are passed to the intended beneficiaries as quickly as possible.

After we have determined the details of the will, we will arrange for inheritance tax to be paid if necessary, and then apply to the Probate Registry to authorise the Executors to administer and distribute the estate according to the terms of the will.

What is an executor and administrator?

The Executors are the people appointed in the will to deal with the administration of the Estate. The Administrator is the person who must deal with the administration of an estate where there is no will. Executors and Administrators are often together referred to as Personal Representatives and they have three specific roles:

• Protect and preserve the estate
• Apply for the Grant of Representation (often referred to as “probate”)
• Distribute the estate according to the terms of the will or intestacy

This is only a brief outline of probate law and is not intended to be a substitute for specific advice tailored to your needs.

How long does probate take?

It is important to note that the likely timescales involved with the administration of an estate can vary greatly. Generally, it takes between 16-20 months for a standard full estate administration to be concluded in its entirety depending on the make-up and complexity of the estate itself. Generally, we can obtain a Grant of Representation (probate) within 20 weeks provided we have all the information necessary and there is no inheritance tax to pay.

We’ve put together a helpful guide on Estate Administration which can be found here.

How much does probate cost?

We offer Executors the choice of a fixed fee arrangement or the more traditional solicitors’ charging method, we will discuss our fees in advance of you becoming our client. You can also get a free probate quote by using our probate calculator. You can also find examples of our pricing here.

There are likely to be disbursements in full administration to be aware of, we will always discuss these with you in advance. These could include, but are not limited to:

• Statutory notices – approximately £200
• Valuation fees, for property, contents and some investments – approximately £100-200 each
• Bankruptcy search fees – £10 plus VAT per name searched