Administration of Estates
Probate & Estate Administration
Administering the estate of a loved one or friend after their death can be a daunting task at a distressing time. Our expert legal team have the experience to listen, advise and assist you through the process regardless of its complexity
As an executor or administrator of an estate you are accountable to the beneficiaries for claiming all assets and paying any debts of the estate prior to distribution. You may be personally liable for any losses suffered by beneficiaries or unpaid creditors if you do not carry out your duties adequately. An application for Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration (where no Will exists) may be required and an accompanying inheritance tax return submitted to HM Revenue & Customs. We can provide you with professional guidance and support by:
- Ascertaining the values of all assets held in the estate
- Completing HMRC inheritance tax forms and advising you on any reliefs and exemptions available to mitigate the estate’s IHT liabilities
- Draft supporting statement for your application for Grant of Probate or Grant of Letters of Administration (where there is no valid Will)
- Ensure that adequate steps are taken to identify creditors and to issue Trustee Act legal notices.
- Complete claim forms to close the deceased’s bank account/s & arrange for the sale/transfer of assets.
- Carry out compulsory bankruptcy searches
- Pay any debts of the estate to include HM Revenue & Customs or DWP.
- Prepare Deed of Variation where necessary to vary the distribution of the estate
- Prepare final estate accounts.
- Distribute the estate monies between beneficiaries.
