When someone dies, it is difficult to know what to do first, where to turn to for help and how to understand the information you need to take in. The word Probate causes concern and confusion for many people, but it needn’t be something you have to worry about. Here's everything you need to know about dealing with Probate. Read the information below, download our guide, or if you're ready, give us a call to discuss the next steps.
The page was last updated in September 2020. There may have been legal and regulatory changes impacting the process of Probate since this date. Please contact us for up to date information.
What To Consider
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal process of administering someone’s estate. The name derives from the Grant of Probate, which is the Court document issued to the Executors of a Will to enable them to deal with assets.
How Long Does Probate Take?
For simpler estates, the process of administering an estate can take four to eight months. For complex estates the estate administration is likely to take at least eight months and often more than one year.
Do I Need A Solicitor?
It is ultimately up to you. If you give yourself enough time, it is possible to manage probate yourself for simple estates, but for estates with any degree of complexity, you should seek the assistance of a Solicitor or Legal Executive.
What is A Personal Representative?
Executors and Administrators are both referred to as ‘Personal Representatives’. A Personal Representative is the legal guardian of the estate. All the assets and liabilities that the deceased owned and controlled in their own right pass to them.
Does Everyone Need To Apply For A Grant Of Representation?
No. You may not need probate if the deceased had jointly owned property, and only savings or premium bonds.Most banks and building societies have their own rules on whether probate is required, so you will need to contact them to find out what they will require.
How Can You Help?
At Woolley, Beardsleys & Bosworth, we have centuries of experience in dealing with small and large estates, and have a team of specialist experts who can help guide you through the process of probate. See how we can help you in more detail below.
At Woolley, Beardsleys & Bosworth, we have centuries of experience in dealing with small and large estates. We are also part of the Chesterton House team, and can
advise on Inheritance Tax planning, succession planning, investments and financial arrangements through Chesterton House Accounting Services and Chesterton House Financial Planning respectively.
Our legal, accounting and financial specialists work together to ensure you receive the highest quality advice based on your own individual requirements.
You can contact us on our Kriss Morrison-Cooper
information line by calling 01509 649077
Here's How We Can Help You