Get Help With Probate From Your Local Probate Solicitors

Being named as executor of a will is a big responsibility, especially if the deceased was someone close to you, like a parent or sibling. Similarly, if they did not leave a will, then the responsibility of arranging their affairs could fall to you as the next of kin.

When you’re already dealing with a loss, this can feel overwhelming for anybody. That’s why so many people turn to their local probate solicitors, Holdens Law, for expert advice and assistance.

Here at Holdens Law, our Wills and Probate team are here to help. We’ll take care of everything on your behalf, giving you the time you need to look after your family, and yourself, at this difficult time. From applying for probate or Letters of Administration, to distributing the estate, our team will handle every step, sensitively and professionally, providing full accounts to show exactly what we’ve done.

What is probate?

A Grant of Probate allows executors named in a will to handle all matters regarding the estate of a deceased person. This includes gathering, valuing and distributing their goods and property, settling any outstanding debts, and paying any taxes that are due.

Probate is a legal requirement for executors dealing with an estate. However, you don’t need probate if the estate is worth less than £5,000, or if the deceased only had savings and their bank is prepared to release these without probate. If there is property or stocks and shares involved, you will need a grant of probate before you can liquidate these or pass them on to the beneficiaries. 

You cannot complete a house sale before probate is granted, however you are able to put the property on the market. That way a sale can be completed as quickly as possible once probate has been obtained and the proceeds distributed appropriately. Holdens’ expert conveyancing team will be happy to help with this process.

What if there’s no will?

If there’s no will, then a close relative, such as a child or grandchild, can apply for a Grant of Letters of Administration. This gives many of the same powers as a Grant of Probate, however the distribution of assets will be done according to the rules of intestacy which are set out by the Government. Once again, local probate solicitors, Holdens Law, are here to help. We’ll take care of everything for you, including distributing the estate and preparing final accounts.

How long does probate take?

Applying for probate in a simple case takes around 12 weeks. However, the more complex the estate, and the more paperwork that is involved, the longer the probate process will take. Before you can apply for probate, you need to estimate the value of the estate for tax purposes. The team at Holdens Law will advise you on the likely timescales involved and keep you updated at every stage.

Local probate solicitors can really help to speed things up when it comes to probate. We understand the probate system in detail, and we know exactly what will be required. This means we can minimise delays by presenting a complete and comprehensive application. Holdens Law can even arrange accurate valuations of property and other assets. Our team will then closely monitor the progress of your application, dealing with any issues promptly and professionally, to ensure probate is granted as quickly as possible.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your responsibilities as an executor, or you simply don’t know where to start, start by calling Holdens Law, your local probate solicitors. Holdens will take care of everything, so you can take care of your family as they deal with their loss.