Probate Lawyer in United Kingdom. Estate attorneys Law

Administrators, personal representatives, or executors of estates

When someone dies it can be a very challenging time for family and friends, and it can be overwhelming trying to work out what needs to be done to finalise their affairs.

A Grant of Probate (or Letters of Administration in some situations) is a court sealed document that gives the person named on it the legal authority to deal with the assets of the person who has died.

Probate is typically a long and emotional process, but it can also be a deeply rewarding and inspiring one. Although many executors are capable of completing probate on their own, some executors choose to hire a probate attorney for guidance and assistance during probate.

Probate lawyers (also called estate attorneys) help non-lawyer clients fulfill their role as administrators, personal representatives, or executors of estates.

A probate lawyer is a state-licensed attorney who offers special legal assistance to the executor of an estate during the probate process, which is a formal legal proceeding that appoints an executor to administer an estate and distribute its assets to the beneficiaries, or according to local intestate succession laws if the person passed without a will.

How do I apply for a Grant in United Kingdom

The first stage of the estate process is to identify all the assets and liabilities of the person who has died and have them valued. The executors must then complete an inheritance tax return and arrange to pay any inheritance tax due on the estate. The application for the Grant can then be filed with the Probate Registry who will issue the Grant. Once the Grant is obtained the executors can collect in all the assets and distribute the estate to the beneficiaries.

What Does a Probate Attorney Do in United Kingdom?

A probate attorney can accomplish many things to settle an estate and assist the Executor and beneficiaries, including:

• Confirming that ownership is appropriately vested in the seller of the home
• Identifying any unpaid loans, liens, litigation or other claims against the property and working to clear them, as well as uncovering deed restrictions and covenants and any breaks in the chain of title
• Collecting life insurance policy proceeds
• Determining and paying inheritance taxes
• Figuring out and paying estate and income taxes that may be due
• Identifying all estate assets
• Making final distributions after paying all bills and taxes
• Opening and managing the estate’s checking account
• Ordering property appraisals for real property
• Paying debts and final bills
• Preparing and filing all court documents
• Retitling assets in beneficiaries’ names

Like any other type of lawyer, probate attorneys can be found in nearly every county and city. An executor who is seeking legal advice will likely not have any difficulty finding a probate attorney in their area.

Law offices in United States

Law offices in United Kingdom