Probate Solicitors

Probate is the legal process of managing someone’s estate after they’ve passed away. It involves applying for a legal document - either a Grant of Probate (if there’s a will) or a Grant of Letters of Administration (if there isn’t a will) - which gives you the authority to deal with their assets.

You’ll need probate if the estate includes property, shares, or significant savings. However, some smaller estates may not require it. If you’re unsure whether probate is needed, we can help you assess the situation and guide you through the next steps.

A probate solicitor helps you manage the legal and administrative tasks involved in dealing with an estate. This can include applying for the Grant of Probate, valuing the estate, paying any debts or taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries.

At Dootsons, we can handle as much or as little of the process as you need. Whether you want us to take care of everything or just need help with specific tasks, we’re here to make things easier for you.

The length of the probate process depends on the size and complexity of the estate. For straightforward estates, it can take around 3–6 months to complete. However, if the estate is large, includes overseas assets, or there are disputes between beneficiaries, it may take longer.

The first step - applying for the Grant of Probate - usually takes 3–5 weeks once all the necessary paperwork is submitted. We’ll keep you updated throughout the process and work to resolve any delays as quickly as possible.

The cost of probate depends on the complexity of the estate and the level of support you need. At Dootsons, we offer clear and competitive pricing, with no hidden fees. After discussing your situation, we’ll provide a personalised quote so you know exactly what to expect.

In addition to our fees, there may be other costs, such as court fees or payments to third parties (known as disbursements). We’ll explain these costs upfront and ensure you’re fully informed before proceeding.

If your loved one didn’t leave a will, the estate will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. These rules determine who inherits based on their relationship to the deceased. For example, a spouse or children are usually first in line, but if there are no close relatives, the estate may pass to more distant family members.

This process can be more complicated, especially if the family is large or there are unknown beneficiaries. We can help you navigate the rules of intestacy, locate beneficiaries, and ensure the estate is distributed correctly.

As an executor, you’re responsible for managing the estate and ensuring everything is handled correctly. This includes valuing the estate, paying any debts or taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries. You’ll also need to keep detailed records and prepare an Estate Account showing all payments and receipts.

It’s a big responsibility, and mistakes can lead to personal liability. That’s why many executors choose to work with a probate solicitor. We can guide you through your duties, handle the legal paperwork, and ensure everything is done properly.

If you’ve been named as an executor but don’t feel able to take on the role, you can choose to step down. This is known as "renouncing probate." However, you must do this before you’ve started dealing with the estate.

If you’ve already begun the process, you may still be able to appoint a solicitor to act on your behalf. At Dootsons, we can take over the legal and administrative tasks, giving you peace of mind that everything is being handled correctly.

You’re not legally required to use a solicitor for probate, but many people find it helpful to have professional support. Probate can be a complex and time-consuming process, and a solicitor can ensure everything is done correctly, saving you time and reducing stress.

If you’re unsure whether you need a solicitor, we’re happy to discuss your situation and explain how we can help. Whether you want us to handle the entire process or just need advice on specific tasks, we’re here to support you.

Yes, we can assist with calculating and paying any inheritance tax owed. This includes completing the necessary tax forms and ensuring everything is submitted on time.

Inheritance tax can be complicated, especially if the estate includes gifts made in the seven years before death or assets that need to be valued. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure all tax obligations are met. If you need further advice on tax planning or investments, we can also connect you with trusted financial advisers.

Disputes can arise for many reasons, such as disagreements over the will, claims from family members who feel they’ve been unfairly excluded, or concerns about how the estate is being managed.

If you’re facing a dispute, it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible. At Dootsons, we can help you resolve disputes through negotiation or mediation, avoiding the need for costly court proceedings wherever possible. Our goal is to find a solution that works for everyone involved.

If you’re struggling to locate beneficiaries, we can help. Using trusted tracing agents, we can track down missing beneficiaries and ensure they receive their share of the estate.

It’s important to make every effort to find all beneficiaries, as failing to do so could leave you personally liable if someone comes forward later. We’ll guide you through the process and ensure everything is handled correctly.