Probate & Estate Management
Dealing with the loss of a loved one can be a difficult and emotional time for you and your family, and managing the administration of their estate may be the last thing you want to do.
Our lawyers and litigators have assisted many families over the years with estate administration, not only locally but also internationally. We can help you with collecting assets, applying for a Grant of Probate, and managing any tax implications that may arise. Being an executor or administrator carries significant responsibility, and we will support you every step of the way until all matters are resolved.
Our legal experts, experienced solicitors, and litigators have a detailed understanding of the relevant legislation. They also possess a range of personal and communication skills that help guide people through the intricacies of probate.
Key Stages & Timescales
The administration of an estate follows a structured process. Timescales vary depending on the complexity of the estate, the availability of information, and the involvement of third parties such as HMRC, banks, asset holders, and the Probate Registr
1. Initial Instruction and Information Gathering
We obtain full details of the deceased’s assets, liabilities, and personal circumstances, and review the Will (where applicable). This stage also includes identifying and collating the documentation required to progress the estate administration.
Typical timescale: 4–6 weeks, depending on the availability of information and third-party responses.
2. Valuation of the Estate
Assets and liabilities are identified and valued, including property, financial accounts, investments, and personal possessions. Formal valuations may be required from third parties.
Typical timescale: 8–10 weeks, and in more complex estates up to 16 weeks, depending on third-party response times and asset complexity.
3. Inheritance Tax Assessment and Reporting (if applicable)
Where required, inheritance tax calculations are prepared and submitted to HMRC, along with the relevant probate documentation. This may include submission of probate application forms.
Typical timescale: 6–12 weeks depending on HMRC processing times and estate complexity
4. Application for Grant of Representation
Once all required information has been gathered, the application for a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration is submitted to the Probate Registry.
Typical timescale: 12–24 weeks for the Grant to be issued, depending on Probate Registry processing times.
5. Collection and Administration of Assets
Following receipt of the Grant, we collect in assets, settle liabilities, and deal with estate administration matters. This may include property sales or transfers, dealing with financial institutions, and closing accounts.
Typical timescale: 6–12 months.
6. Distribution of the Estate and Final Accounts
Once all liabilities have been settled, the estate is distributed to beneficiaries and final estate accounts are prepared and agreed.
Typical timescale: 4–8 weeks.
Overall Timescale
Straightforward estates may take 8–12 months to complete. More complex estates, particularly those involving property sales, multiple beneficiaries, business interests, or tax considerations, may take 18–36 months or longer to fully administer.
If you would like to meet with us in person to explore your options, we would be happy to arrange an initial, no-obligation discussion at a location convenient for you—whether that is at our offices in Clitheroe, your home, your workplace, or another venue in Clitheroe, Skipton, Whalley, Longridge, Blackburn, Burnley, Preston, Manchester, Southport, or Liverpool.
For more information about how we can assist with any aspect of probate law, please contact us on 01200 428102.