Estate Administration

Dealing with bereavement can be one of the most difficult times in a person’s life. For many, it can be also be a stressful and time-consuming procedure administering the estate.

• When someone dies and leaves a valid Will, they will have appointed executors to oversee their estate. It is the executors’ responsibility to apply for Probate, cash in the assets and settle any liabilities. It may also be necessary to account to HMRC for any inheritance tax that may be due. When this has been done, any remaining assets can be distributed in accordance with the Will.
• If someone dies without making a Will, the law sets out how the estate should be distributed to the family. This is called intestacy and, instead of executors, the Court will appoint personal representatives to deal with the estate.
• Being an executor or personal representative can be an onerous task and, if matters are dealt with incorrectly, it could lead to a claim against the estate, or the executors/personal representatives personally.

Our private client team have many years’ experience of helping bereaved clients deal with their loss. We provide a courteous and professional service at a very sensitive time. We can guide you through estate administration, from application for Probate to property sales and transfers. Unlike some other providers, we deal with all aspects of an estate ‘under one roof’, making the overall process easier, more streamlined and cheaper. We are able to give you as much or as little help and guidance as you feel you need, so please do not hesitate to get in touch.