What is Probate

Probate is the 'winding up' of someones estate after they die.  It essentially means testing the validity of their will and carrying out the wishes of the deceased.  It involves liasing with a whole range of people such as funeral diretors, debtors, creditors, the Inland Revenue, estate agents, banks, insurance companies and the Probate Registry.

When do things happen?

Obviously nothing happens until someone dies.  Probate cannot be applied for until the deceased persons' assets and liabilities have been identifed and valued.  

What needs to be done?

Once all the details of the persons' assets and liabilities have been gathered, the Inland Revenue Inheritance Tax forms need to be completed and an 'oath for executors' must be sworn and then submitted to the Probate Registry.

Can anyone do it?

Anyone can apply for a grant of probate.  If the estate is small and simple, it could be possible to be done without the need of a solicitor. However, most people find themselves unable to deal with the major, legal and financial issues involved when they are struggling to cope with the emotions of bereavement and the recent loss of a loved one.  This is why so many people ask professional administrators to act on their behalf.  

Why should you use New Hampton Law?

• We can do the whole thing for you.
• We can provide advice for those who want to do the paperwork themselves.
• A probate lawyer-backed service.
• Highly competitive hourly rates
• Free initial consultation
• Free home visit
• Professional efficient specialised service
• Ultra-fast and proactive service
• Only charge for the work done

New Hampton Law will:

• Establish all the assets and liabilities of the deceased’s estate
• Complete the necessary Inland Revenue tax forms which are always required even if the estate does not exceed the Inheritance Tax threshold
• Deal with any Inheritance Tax liability
• Place the relevant Statutory Notices in local papers where required
• Apply for the Grant of Probate (where a valid will is left) or Grant of Letters of Administration (where the deceased did not leave a will)
• Collect all the deceased’s assets and settle any liabilities
• Distribute in accordance with the terms of the will or the Rules of Intestacy where appropriate
• Advise on Deeds of Variation to alter the distribution of the estate for tax and other purposes

For further information about probate please contact probate@newhamptonlaw.com