Are you the executor or administrator of a will? Losing a loved one is never easy, and we understand how difficult it can be to manage probate and estate administration at such an emotional time. Our probate specialists are on hand to help when you need us most.
Our dedicated and trusted team of probate specialists have many years of experience supporting clients through the probate and estate administration process, no matter the circumstances or complexity
Are you an administrator or executor of a will? It's not easy dealing with your grief for a loved one, making funeral arrangements, and handling probate matters all at the same time.
That is why many executors and administrators choose to work with specialist probate solicitors who can assist them in the process of probate and executing the will of the deceased.
At Slater and Gordon, our expert probate solicitors offer a range of probate services, including a comprehensive suite of legal services that handle probate from start to finish, and support tailored to your individual needs. We have a wealth of experience in probate and estate administration, including complex tax matters, so you’ll always know you and your loved ones are in a safe pair of hand.
With solicitors based around the country, we have helped thousands of clients manage their loved ones’ estates in their local area.
In England and Wales, probate is the legal process of administering the estate (that is, the money, property and assets) of a deceased individual according to the wishes set out in their will.
The process of probate involves proving that the will, where one exists, is valid and that the executor(s) named in the will have the authority to administer the deceased’s estate.
In many cases, the executor(s) will need to apply for a grant of probate before they can access the estate.
What do probate solicitors do?
Depending on the will, the estate, and the beneficiaries, carrying out your duties as an executor or administrator can be complicated and time-consuming. A probate solicitor has a detailed understanding of the law surrounding wills, probate and tax, and can help you to understand the processes involved and what to do when complications or challenges arise.
Understanding the tax implications can also be incredibly difficult, and getting things right is crucial. Our probate solicitors can talk you through any tax matters that need to be handled, including Income Tax, Capital Gains Tax and Inheritance Tax.
A professional probate solicitor can assist you with tasks such as:
Applying for a grant of probate or letters of administration
Collecting in assets and discharging liabilities
Considering and settling the tax liabilities of the estate (e.g. inheritance tax, income tax, and capital gains tax)
Communicating with the beneficiaries and distributing the estate in accordance with the will.
If there is no will, distributing the estate according to the rules of intestacy
How much do solicitors charge for probate?
We offer a range of fixed fee and hourly rate services to support you through the probate process, so you get the legal advice you need for the best possible price.
Our services can be tailored to you and the circumstances of the deceased’s estate, including the value and complexity of the estate, the tax implications, and any challenges to the validity of the will.
From the outset, we will always ensure that any costs associated with your matter are set out clearly, and that any additional costs that could arise are flagged throughout the process.
To learn more about the cost of probate, visit our Probate Fees page.
How can our probate solicitors help
We understand how difficult handling probate matters can be in the wake of losing a loved one. At Slater and Gordon, our compassionate probate solicitors are with you each step of the way, offering support and expert legal advice no matter how complex the circumstances.
From applying for a grant of probate or letters of administration to identifying and settling the tax matters for the estate, our probate lawyers have a wealth of experience and a successful track record of helping clients navigate the complexities of wills and probate.
We’re incredibly proud to be members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), showcasing our team’s dedication and commitment to providing the highest quality legal services in the field.
Our approach is routed in clear communication and transparency, which includes funding options for your legal needs. We’ll provide you with a comprehensive breakdown of costs upfront and throughout your matter, so you’ll always know where you stand.
With straightforward, practical advice and holistic, compassionate care, our probate solicitors are here to support you when you need us most.
Very pleased with the service I received from Slater and Gordon. All actions required were carried out in a sympathetic and efficient manner. Clarification of requirements were indicated in a clear and precise detail with good communication.
Mr S, Lancashire (wills, trusts & probate case)
I am thrilled with how fast my Grant of Probate was dealt with and how lovely everyone was. I would highly recommend their services.
Mrs E, Manchester (wills, trusts & probate case)
My lawyer was very helpful at all stages of the process. She explained things clearly and was very flexible and helpful in dealing with my challenging personal circumstances. I would highly recommend.
Ms G, Lancashire (wills, trusts & probate case)
We are an award winning law firm and have a dedicated team of solicitors to advise and guide you – no matter how complex your situation may be.
Affordability and advice
We're able to offer affordable expert legal advice and can provide guidance on all aspects of wills and trusts. We can provide you with practical, affordable advice on your situation at the outset giving you clear guidance and options on your next steps.
Tailored advice
We understand that all situations differ - it’s not always a one size fits all - so we are able to provide tailored advice and guidance to suit your individual needs.
Local access
We are a national law firm, with legal experts available locally across the UK. Meetings can be arranged via telephone or video call, to suit your requirements.
Frequently asked questions about probate solicitors
Do I need a probate solicitor?
It isn’t a legal requirement to use a probate solicitor when executing a loved one’s will, however doing so on your own can be a very challenging experience and it can be difficult to know how to handle issues for the best when they arise.
Depending upon the value and complexity of your loved one’s estate and will, probate can be a length, time-consuming process, which many people can struggle with while they come to term with the loss of their loved one.
No, probate is not always a requirement when someone passes away. It will often depend upon the value of their estate, though the exact threshold can differ between different banks and other financial institutions.
In most cases, probate is required when the deceased solely owned property or other high value assets totalling more than £5,000.
What information do I need to provide to my probate solicitor?
To start the process of probate, you will need to provide your probate solicitor with all the relevant information and documentation regarding the deceased and their estate.
For instance, your probate solicitor will need the original copy of the death certificate, the deceased’s will, details about estate (a list of assets, liabilities, and lifetime gifts), and proof of your identity as executor.
They may also require further information, such as the deceased’s marriage certificate (if applicable), the details of any pension pots and life insurance policies, the deeds to any property they owned, and login details for any digital assets.
This is not an exhaustive list, however, so it is always best to confirm with your probate solicitor what information is relevant in your circumstance.
How long does probate take?
There is no fixed time within which probate must be completed – in some cases, probate will complete within a few months, though others can take years.
It will depend upon the complexity of the deceased’s estate, the nature of the instructions left within their will, or if there are any disputes or challenges to the distribution of assets.
Very pleased with the service I received from Slater and Gordon. All actions required were carried out in a sympathetic and efficient manner. Clarification of requirements were indicated in a clear and precise detail with good communication. Mr S, Lancashire (wills, trusts & probate case)
I am thrilled with how fast my Grant of Probate was dealt with and how lovely everyone was. I would highly recommend their services. Mrs E, Manchester (wills, trusts & probate case)
My lawyer was very helpful at all stages of the process. She explained things clearly and was very flexible and helpful in dealing with my challenging personal circumstances. I would highly recommend. Ms G, Lancashire (wills, trusts & probate case)