Probate can often be an emotional and complex process.
Writing a Will simplifies this process; however, the executors are legally bound to obtain the Grant of Probate as swiftly as possible and with due diligence.
Whilst any appointed person can carry out probate, without any previous experience it can be a daunting task and you may be faced with difficult questions that need urgent attention.
What is Probate?
Probate is the process of administering a deceased person’s estate. The ‘executor(s)’ of the estate have to apply to the courts for the legal authority to manage and deal with the deceased person’s property and assets and ensure that the wishes as expressed in the Will are carried out. The courts will issue a document called the ‘Grant of Probate’ that proves who has this legal authority.
In the cases where there is no Will there are processes for close relatives to apply to become Administrators of the estate.
Why would I need Probate services?
Most financial institutions require an executor to have obtained the Grant of Probate before they will release the contents of a deceased person’s account(s) to their executors. The Grant of Probate is proof that the Last Will & Testament is correct, and that the tax (if due) has been paid. Only very small estates will not require probate. Financial institutions will not risk giving large estate assets to the wrong person.
The processes that are necessary to go through during probate can be overwhelming and the executor(s) will have to liaise with many official departments such as the Probate Registry and HMRC. This can be a very arduous task, especially if you are still grieving.
Our probate services are designed to reduce the stress of probate and swiftly deal with obligations such as:
- Obtaining the Grant of Probate
- Liaising with banks, building societies and other institutions holding money and property to obtain access to the deceased’s assets
- Collection of estate money
- Settling debts and liabilities of the estate/deceased
- Administration of any tax liabilities
- Settlement of claims against the estate
- Asset distribution
- Finalisation of the Statement Account with Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC)
If you would like to find out more about our probate services, please contact us on our free phone number 0808 100 2467.