LIBERAY LEGAL > WILLS & ESTATE PLANNING > PROBATE & ESTATE ADMINISTRATION
PROBATE & ESTATE ADMINISTRATION
Losing a loved one is an emotional and difficult time. Alongside grief, there are often legal and financial matters that must be handled promptly.
Our team of experienced probate solicitors and estate administration lawyers at Liberay Legal provide clear, professional guidance to help you manage the estate with confidence.
WHAT IS PROBATE?
Probate is the legal process that confirms the validity of a will and gives the appointed executor the authority to deal with the deceased’s estate. If there is no will, the process ensures that the estate is distributed according to the intestacy rules.
The probate process usually involves:
- Validating the will (if there is one)
- Collecting and valuing assets
- Settling debts, taxes, and expenses
- Distributing inheritance to beneficiaries
WHEN IS PROBATE REQUIRED?
Not every estate requires probate. It is usually needed if the deceased owned property in their sole name, a bank or financial institution requests a Grant of Probate before releasing funds, or the estate is complex or of high value. Smaller estates or jointly owned assets may often be transferred without probate.
WHAT IS ESTATE ADMINISTRATION?
Estate administration is the wider responsibility of managing a person’s financial and legal affairs after their death. This includes:
- Applying for a Grant of Probate (if there is a will) or Letters of Administration (if there is no will)
- Gathering and securing assets
- Settling debts and taxes
- Distributing the estate to the rightful heirs
An executor (named in a will) or an administrator (appointed when there is no will) is legally responsible for this process.
HOW MUCH DOES THIS SERVICE COST?
Fixed Fee: £1,200+VAT Plus Disbursements:
This includes obtaining the grant, collecting assets and distributing them.
Breakdown of Costs:
Legal fees: £1,200.00
VAT on legal fees: £240.00
Disbursements (payable to third parties):
- Probate court fee of £526.00 + £2.00 per copy
- Bankruptcy-only Land Charges Department searches (£7 per beneficiary)
- AML checks (per beneficiary)
- £300.00-£400.00 Post in The London Gazette and a Local Newspaper – Protects against unexpected claims from unknown creditors
Disbursements are costs related to your matter that are payable to third parties, such as court fees. We handle the payment of the disbursements on your behalf to ensure a smoother process. Please note, disbursements are subject to change depending on the type of case.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN OUR FIXED FEE?
As part of our fixed fee we will:
- Provide you with a dedicated and experienced probate solicitor to work on your matter
- Identify the legally appointed executors or administrators and beneficiaries
- Accurately identify the type of Probate application you will require
- Obtain the relevant documents required to make the application
- Complete the Probate Application
- Make the application to the Probate Court on your behalf
- Obtain the Probate and securely send two copies to you
- Collect and distribute all assets in the estate
HOW WE CAN HELP
We can help you through this difficult process by obtaining the Grant of Probate on your behalf. We will also undertake the collecting and distributing of assets.
Contact us today to discuss how we can support you with probate and estate administration.
WHY CHOOSE LIBERAY LEGAL?
Our probate and estate administration solicitors can:
- Provide step-by-step guidance throughout the probate process
- Deal directly with banks, HMRC, and other institutions on your behalf
- Ensure debts, expenses, and inheritance tax are properly managed
- Advise on complex estates, including those with overseas property or business interests
- Support you in cases of disputes or contested wills
We combine legal expertise with sensitivity, ensuring that the estate is managed efficiently while reducing stress for your family.
HOW LONG DOES THE PROCESS TAKE?
Typical Timeline:
On average, estates that fall within this range are dealt with within 6-9 months.
- Obtaining the grant of probate: 4-6 weeks
- Collecting assets: 6-12 weeks
- Distributing the assets: 2-4 weeks
EXPERT GUIDANCE WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST
Managing an estate can be overwhelming, especially during a time of grief. Our experienced team handles all the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on what matters most – remembering your loved one and supporting your family.
