Probate

Probate – what to do when someone dies

When someone dies, somebody has to deal with the collection of their assets and payment of any liabilities (their “estate”).

Probate involves collecting all money that belonged to the person who has died, paying off any taxes and debts and dividing the estate amongst those people who are entitled to share in the estate.

Normally the Probate Registry will need to give someone the authority to deal with the estate of the person who has died (often called “Probate”). Until that has been issued, the assets are frozen and cannot be released by those banks and other institutions who have control of the funds.

Whether appointed as Executors in a Will or not, we provide practical, no-nonsense guidance and assistance with:

• Obtaining Grants of Probate
• Deeds of Variation
• Inheritance Tax Returns
• Property transfers
• Payment of debts
• Closing estates and distributing assets

Probate claims

It is an unfortunate fact that the death of a family member can often bring the worst out in people. As part of our daily work we are regularly dealing with disputes between families over Wills and the distribution of assets.

We will handle such disputes with total professionalism, ensuring your best interests are protected whilst also managing your expectations as to what resolution you might achieve.

Your dispute might concern the signing of a Will, the interpretation of a “homemade” Will, the release of assets, or the distribution of a family heirloom. In more complex cases the case may involve a claim for ongoing maintenance for those family members who have been neglected in, or cut out of, a Will.

Whatever the dispute we’ll actively seek the best solution for you and will explore all possible negotiated settlements before embarking on costly and distressing court proceedings.