Probate and Estate Administration Solicitors
Probate and Estate Administration
At Redkite Solicitors, our dedicated probate solicitors have been helping executors through estate administration for over 100 years. With care and determination, we will see that everything is taken care of as quickly and efficiently as possible.
What is probate?
The word ‘probate’ is used to describe the legal process involved with distributing the financial assets of an estate after a person has passed away. Before the executor or administrator can begin the process of asset distribution, they must apply for Probate by completing a Grant of Probate (if there is a Will) or Letters of Administration (if there is no valid Will.) Once complete, these must be sent to the local Court for approval. When probate has been granted, the executor or administrator will undertake the process of estate administration, distributing the assets in accordance with the wishes of the deceased.
Why choose Redkite Solicitors for probate?
When someone passes away, the financial, property and investment assets that remain must be properly distributed and any taxes due must be paid within strict time limits. This can be particularly challenging; especially for those responsible for estate administration.
Estates can range from small and simple to large and very complex and inheritance tax is a prime concern in some cases. Even the smallest estates can sometimes have hidden pitfalls. Luckily, our specialist probate solicitors are here to take the pressure off of you as an executor or administrator, advising you each step of the way, and helping you through the process.
With an empathetic but determined approach, our experts can provide assistance and take over these duties at whatever level needed, allowing you to take the necessary time to grieve.
How can our probate solicitors help you?
Our expert probate solicitors can help you with:
- Producing comprehensive beneficiary accounts
- Referrals to accountants and IFAs where appropriate
- Income, capital gains and inheritance tax advice
- Acting as executors and administrators
- Grants of Probate
- Letters of Administration
What is the role of an executor?
If you have been named executor of a Will, you will be responsible for a number of tasks relating to the estate of the deceased. These include:
- Determining exactly which assets the estate consists of
- Preparing the Inheritance Tax forms to submit to HMRC with any necessary payment.
- Paying any unresolved debt from the estate
- Obtaining the Grant of Probate from the Probate Registry
- Collecting in the assets of the estate
- Establishing the identity of your named beneficiaries (those inheriting)
- Distributing the financial assets to the beneficiaries named in the Will
As an executor, you will be personally liable for any errors made in estate administration. That’s why many executors prefer to enlist the support of one of our specialist solicitors who can tackle the process of estate administration on their behalf
If you need specialist advice, hands-on assistance and legal support through estate administration, get in touch with our friendly team of probate solicitors today.