If the deceased has left a Will, it will name a person they have chosen to administer their estate and this person is known as the Executor of the Will.
The executor must apply for the Grant of Probate, a legal document that gives them authority to deal with the deceased estate. If there is no Will, the Executor will need to apply for letters of administration.
In both cases it can potentially be a very lengthy and stressful process, with current timescales around 6 – 12 months.
Your Executors will have full financial and legal responsibility and they must pay any taxes and debts owed before distribution of the estate.
Seek expert legal advice with Wills and Probate
The paperwork involved can be complex, worrying and time consuming, including numerous lengthy legally binding forms to understand and complete. We are here to help to take all that worry and stress away and carry out the probate process on your behalf.
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You can establish a trust or property protection trust during your lifetime or, through your Will, on your death.
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Lasting Powers of Attorney enable a friend or family member you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you are no longer able to do so yourself.