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Probate and Estate Administration

Professional guidance through the whole estate administration process

What's the difference between probate and estate administration?

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process that gives someone the authority to deal with a person’s estate after they die. If the deceased left a Will, the named executor must apply for a Grant of Probate, which confirms their right to manage the estate. If there is no Will, a relative can apply for Letters of Administration, and the estate will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. Probate is often required to access bank accounts, sell property, or transfer assets, particularly where the estate is of significant value.

What is Estate Administration?

Estate administration is the broader process of managing everything the deceased owned, owed, and was entitled to. This includes collecting in assets, paying off any debts, calculating and settling Inheritance Tax, and distributing what remains to the correct beneficiaries. It also involves dealing with financial institutions, government bodies, and possibly the sale of property. Whether or not probate is required, estate administration must be carried out thoroughly and in accordance with the law.

Why Choose Just Wills and Legal Services?

Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with their affairs can feel overwhelming. At Just Wills & Legal Services, we understand how difficult this time can be. Our experienced probate executives and support staff are here to guide you through the process in a caring, professional and efficient way. Whether you are dealing with a straightforward estate or a more complex situation, we’ll ensure everything is handled correctly and with minimal stress.

Probate explained...

Probate is the legal process of managing a person’s estate after they have died. If the deceased left a Will, the named executor must apply for a Grant of Probate, which gives them the legal authority to collect in the assets, settle debts and taxes, and distribute the estate to the beneficiaries named in the Will.

If there is no Will, this is called intestacy, and a relative, such as a spouse, civil partner or child, will need to apply for Letters of Administration instead. In either case, our team can guide you through the right steps to take.

What Should You Do First?

If you’re not sure where to begin, we can help. The first steps are usually to:

Obtain the death certificate

Locate the Will (if there is one)

Gather documents such as bank statements, pension information and property deeds

If there is no Will, it’s important to seek legal advice immediately. The law will determine who can manage the estate and who is entitled to inherit.

We offer a free information pack explaining the duties of executors and Trustees, and we’re always on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Why is probate needed?

Some banks, building societies, and financial institutions will not release money until probate has been granted, particularly if the balance is over a certain amount. Probate is also required if the deceased owned property or land in their sole name.

Even if the estate seems simple, probate is often a necessary legal step to ensure everything is handled properly.

The Probate Process

In summary, the probate process usually involves:

Registering the death and obtaining the certificate

Locating the Will and gathering estate paperwork

Valuing the estate and completing Inheritance Tax forms

Applying for the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration

Informing banks, pension providers, HMRC and other organisations

Paying off any debts and taxes

Collecting and distributing the assets to the beneficiaries

Preparing final accounts

How We Can Help

At Just Wills & Legal Services, we can take care of the full probate process on your behalf. Our services include:

Applying for probate or letters of administration

Valuing the estate and advising on Inheritance Tax

Completing all HMRC paperwork

Collecting and transferring assets

Paying outstanding debts

Preparing final estate accounts

Distributing funds to beneficiaries

We will keep you updated throughout and provide a dedicated point of contact to answer any questions along the way.

How Long Does Probate Take?

Probate can take up to a year to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the estate. However, straightforward estates may be completed more quickly. We will keep you informed at every stage of the process so you know what to expect.

How Much Does Probate Cost?

The cost of probate depends on the estate’s value and complexity. Once we have the relevant details, we can provide a clear breakdown of the costs involved. Our team has over 100 years of combined experience, and we work in a tax-efficient way to help reduce costs where possible. In many cases, we have helped families save over £100,000 in tax.

Speak to Our Team

If you need help with probate or are unsure where to start, contact us today to speak to a member of our friendly team or to arrange a call back. We’re here to make the process as straightforward as possible for you and your family.

TESTIMONIALS

What Our Clients Say About Us

Yulia was very professional and efficient and I was very happy with the service provided. Would highly recommend their services and costs were competitive.

John Parsons-Dorman

Nicola was outstanding in helping us with our will. He was professional, friendly, and incredibly flexible, coming to our location whether it was home or work. Even when we had to make last-minute changes, he was accommodating and efficient. Plus, his friendly and presentable demeanour made the process smooth and pleasant.

Kassim

Excellent and professional service from the lovely Natalie.Came to our house and the whole process was easy from beginning to end.

Claire Abel

Other Types of Trusts

The right Trust for you will depend on the assets you want to pass on, who your beneficiaries are, and how much control you wish to retain. In addition to Asset Protection Trusts, there are other options available, such as Family Trusts and Property Protection Trusts, each offering different benefits based on your personal and financial goals.

Other Types of Trusts

Just Wills and Legal Services has been helping families plan for the future since 2013. With over 100,000 clients served, our experienced team provides trusted guidance in Wills, estate planning, and probate. We are proud members of the Society of Will Writers and uphold the highest professional standards.

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Our Address

Location: The Hive 7A Bulrushes Bulrushes Business Park, Coombe Hill Road, East Grinstead England RH19 4LZ

Phone: 01342 477102

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