Probate.
Plan ahead with confidence. Our team can help you navigate the legal process of administering an estate after someone has passed away.
Probate is the legal process of administering someone’s estate after they die. It involves validating their Will, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. It’s a complex legal requirement that ensures the deceased’s wishes are carried out properly — giving clarity and peace of mind during a difficult time.
Why do I need help with Probate?
Dealing with legal matters is the last thing you want to worry about during bereavement. A properly managed probate process ensures debts are paid, taxes are handled correctly, and assets are distributed according to the Will or law.
Why do I need help with Probate administration?
- You have recently lost a loved one and been named as executor and are grieving
- You are dealing with a complex estate involving property, investments, or business interests
- You have received a grant of probate but need help with the administration process
- You are facing disputes between beneficiaries or challenges to the Will
Which type of grant do I need?
Grant of Probate
Issued when there’s a valid Will with appointed executors to administer the estate according to the Will’s instructions.
Grant of Letters of Administration
Issued when there’s no valid Will or appointed executor, allowing administrators to distribute assets under intestacy rules.
Grant of Letters of Administration with Will Annexed
Issued when there’s a valid Will but no available executor, allowing an administrator to follow the Will’s wishes.
The Probate process, made simple.
We begin by establishing whether there’s a valid Will and explaining its terms to executors, or if there’s no Will, we create a family tree and explain who benefits under intestacy laws. We then guide you through six key stages of estate administration.
Asset Valuation
We gather details of all assets and liabilities to establish the estate’s value at the date of death.
Grant of Probate
We report the estate value to HMRC where necessary and apply to the court for a grant of probate.
Asset collection
If the estate is valued at less than £5,000 you are unlikely to need probate. Some banks may have a higher limit than the £5,000. However, you should always check with an experienced Probate solicitor, as there are some circumstances where reports need to be made to HMRC inheritance division even if the estate has a relatively low value at the time of death.
Estate Accounts
We prepare detailed accounts of all receipts and payments for executor approval before final distribution.
Final Distribution
We complete property transfers or sales and distribute the remaining proceeds to beneficiaries.
It was easy to contact if we had the odd question to raise...
Lindsey kept us up to date throughout the process and was easy to contact if we had the odd question to raise. I can highly recommend their services and would use them again in the future.
Mrs B
We were able to save money and make changes easily...
Due to Lindsey’s experience and understanding of Probate law, we were able to save money on the Inheritance Tax, and make changes between the inheriting parties easily.
Mr B
Without their help the outcome would have been very different...
I found it very difficult to find accurate advice on matters relating to probate. That was until I was recommended Atterbury Payne who have helped me over the last 2 years to navigate the law following the passing of my father. Without their help the outcome would have been very different.
Mr S
Helping You Make Sense of Probate.
How long does Probate take?
Probate typically takes 6-9 months to complete, though complex estates involving property sales or disputes can take significantly longer. We guide you through each stage to avoid unnecessary delays.
Do I need a solicitor for Probate?
Whilst there’s no legal requirement to use a solicitor, it’s usually recommended as solicitors have the skills and experience to ensure every detail is accounted for and protect you from legal consequences if mistakes occur.
Do I need Probate for a small estate?
If the estate is worth less than £5,000 or the deceased has left their entire estate to their spouse or civil partner, you may not need to go through Probate. However, you should always check with an experienced Probate lawyer first.