Probate Applications

When someone dies, their estate usually needs to go through probate before assets can be distributed to beneficiaries. This legal process can be complex and time-consuming, especially during an already difficult period of grief.

What Our Probate Solicitors Can Help With

• Grant of Probate: When there's a valid will appointing executors
• Letters of Administration: When there's no will or appointed executors
• Inheritance Tax Returns: IHT400 forms and HMRC correspondence
• Estate Valuations: Professional valuation of assets and liabilities
• Asset Collection: Gathering in all estate assets from various sources
• Debt Settlement: Paying outstanding debts and funeral expenses
• Estate Distribution: Final distribution to beneficiaries
• Probate Disputes: Contested applications and caveat proceedings

When Probate is Required

Probate is usually needed when:

• The estate value exceeds £5,000
• There are solely owned property or land
• There are shares or investments in the deceased's sole name
• Banks or financial institutions require probate
• There are disputes about the estate
• The deceased owned business interests

Probate may not be needed if:

• All assets were jointly owned
• The estate value is under £5,000
• Assets are held in trust
• All assets have nominated beneficiaries

The Probate Process

1. Death Registration: Obtaining death certificate
2. Will Location: Finding and validating the will
3. Asset Identification: Locating all estate assets
4. Estate Valuation: Professional valuation for probate
5. IHT Assessment: Inheritance tax calculations
6. Probate Application: Submitting forms to probate registry
7. Grant Issue: Receiving grant of probate/letters of administration
8. Estate Administration: Collecting assets and paying debts
9. Final Distribution: Distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries

Probate Timeframes

Typical Timescales:

• Simple estates: 6-12 months
• Complex estates: 12-24 months
• Disputed estates: 2+ years
• Grant of probate: 4-8 weeks from application
• HMRC clearance: 3-6 months for IHT returns

Probate Costs and Fees

Court Fees:

• Estates over £5,000: £273
• Estates under £5,000: £0
• Additional copies: £1.50 each

Solicitor Fees:

• Probate application only: £800-£1,500
• Full estate administration: 1-5% of estate value
• Hourly rates: £200-£600 per hour
• Fixed fee packages available for straightforward estates

Why Choose SolicitorConnect for Probate

• Probate Specialists: Solicitors focusing on estate administration
• Compassionate Service: Understanding the emotional challenges of bereavement
• Fixed Fee Options: Transparent pricing for straightforward estates
• HMRC Experience: Expertise in inheritance tax matters
• Court Relationships: Established connections with probate registries
• Full Service: From application to final distribution

Professional probate assistance can significantly reduce stress and ensure compliance with legal requirements during difficult times.

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal advice tailored to your situation, please consult with a qualified solicitor.