Probate Support
Losing a loved one is difficult enough without also having to work out how to deal with their estate. If you have been named as an executor or you are the closest relative of someone who died without a Will, you may find yourself needing to establish probate before anything else can move forward.
At Inheritance Wills, we understand how overwhelming this can feel at an already emotional time. We’ll help explain what probate is, why you might need support with it and how our team can help you through the probate process from start to finish.
What Is Probate?
Probate is the legal right to deal with a deceased person’s affairs, often referred to as administering the estate. If the person who died left a Will, it will usually name an executor, the person responsible for carrying out the wishes set out in the Will. This means sharing out the estate as specified, dealing with any complications that may arise and settling any other final wishes.
Being named as an executor does not mean you are legally obliged to act, even if you are the only one named. Where there is no executor or no Will at all, someone will need to step in as the administrator of the estate. This is usually the closest living blood relative or someone who stands to benefit, and their role is broadly the same as an executor’s, although they have no Will to guide them.
If the estate is worth more than £5,000, a Grant of Probate is normally required before any assets can be distributed. This means the Will must be formally recognised at the local Probate Registry. Banks, building societies and insurance companies will all want to see this grant before they release any funds, and a property cannot be sold until a Grant of Probate has been obtained.
Why you might need help with Probate
Probate can be a lengthy and detailed process, and it is easy to underestimate how much work is involved. On average, probate takes between six and twelve months to complete, and involves a lot of administration. Where an estate includes several properties, shares or accounts, or where the Will is contested, it can take considerably longer, sometimes several years, to be finalised.
There is also the question of Inheritance Tax. If an estate is worth more than £325,000, it may be liable, and getting this wrong can have serious consequences. As an executor, you are personally liable for any debts owed by the estate, which is why professional Probate advice is so important. Getting Probate support early can help you avoid costly mistakes and give you confidence that everything is being handled legally.
For many people, the practical burden is only part of it. Acting as an executor or administrator while grieving can be exhausting but at Inheritance WIlls, we’re here to help shoulder some of this in your time of need.
How Inheritance Wills can help with Probate
We provide clear, practical and empathetic Probate advice on the next steps following the death of a loved one, whether you are an executor, a close family relative, or a friend trying to support someone through it. We know this is often a difficult and sensitive time, and we aim to offer a sympathetic ear whenever you need one.
Our Norfolk and Cambridgeshire-based Probate team will help you identify exactly what needs to be done, guide you through the paperwork and support you in planning for your own future once a loved one has passed away. We work alongside a professional team of solicitors who provide a first class probate support service, so you are never left trying to work things out alone.
If you are unsure where to start, simply call us and talk it through. We will explain your options and help you understand what the process will involve for your particular situation.
Areas we cover
Inheritance Wills supports clients across Cambridgeshire and Norfolk with Probate help.We have local branches in Cambridge, Swaffham, King’s Lynn, Ely and Peterborough. Wherever you are based in these areas, our team is on hand to offer face to face advice. We also offer home visits or Zoom calls as part of our service for those who would rather not travel.
Getting Probate support when you need it
Dealing with probate isn’t straightforward, particularly when you are also coming to terms with the loss of someone close to you. From understanding whether a Grant of Probate is needed, to working through Inheritance Tax and the practical demands of administering an estate, there is a lot to consider. Having someone experienced beside you can make the whole process feel far more manageable and help you avoid the pitfalls that catch so many executors out.
If you would like clear, practical guidance from people who understand what you are going through, we are here to help.
Contact us today if you need help with Probate
If you have any questions about probate, or would like to arrange an appointment with our team, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Call us on 0800 170 0475 and we will be happy to talk through your situation and explain how we can help.
“Very helpful team who immediately put us at ease. The service was straightforward and everything was made clear. We are pleased we used Inheritance Legal Services.”
Mr Baker & Ms Lynch
Frequently asked questions
On average, probate takes between six and twelve months. More complex estates, or those involving a contested Will, can take considerably longer to be finalised.
During Probate, the house is technically owned by the deceased person’s estate, with the executor managing it on behalf of the beneficiaries. In the event that the house was jointly owned, ownership will usually automatically pass to the surviving owner.
If you never apply for probate, the deceased person’s assets are frozen and cannot be accessed, inherited or sold. In addition, interest on debt or inheritance tax can also continue to accrue interest and be pursued.
Any jointly owned assets or assets with named beneficiaries are not included in Probate, as well as assets that were put into a trust prior to death.