Probate
When someone dies their money, property and assets are called their “estate”.
If that person dies having made a will a grant of Probate must be obtained. This gives the power to the deceased specified representatives (“Executors”) to deal with the deceased’s estate.
If someone dies without having made a will they are deemed to have died “Intestate”. Certain relatives or representatives then have the right to apply for Letters of Administration which then gives them the power to deal with the deceased’s estate.
Most Banks, Building Societies, Insurance Companies and large corporations will refuse to deal with anyone other than the Executors or Administrators.
After the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration have been obtained it is then the formal duty of the Executors/Administrators to pay off the debts and collect in the money, property and other assets of the Estate and distribute them in accordance with the will or, if none, the intestacy laws. This can be a complex and time consuming task that involves the preparation of detailed financial accounts, making investments and dealing with the Inland Revenue at what is already a very distressing time so soon after the death of a loved one.
Our Probate team has extensive experience of all aspects of the administration of estates. We can relieve you of the day to day burden of administration whilst keeping you fully informed and involved in the decision making process.
So whether someone in your family has died with or without a Will, contact us for constructive and practical advice. This advice could be limited to a particular issue or could extend to asking us to deal with the whole estate.
Key Services:
- Acting as executors
- Obtaining grants of probate and letters of administration
- Administration of estates
- Advising beneficiaries
- Advising executors
- Advising surviving spouses
If you would like more information, please contact the following:
email Cathy MacCracken or phone on 01772 552218; or
email Tracey Wrightson or phone on 01257 236906