Succession covers what happens to a person’s estate when they die, including wills, intestacy, and the steps to collect and distribute assets. A solicitor in this area helps clients prepare or challenge wills, apply for a grant of probate or letters of administration, value the estate for inheritance tax, and oversee the administration of the estate, including distributing assets to beneficiaries. They also handle matters such as executors’ duties, trust provisions, and disputes over entitlement or legitimacy of gifts, as well as advising on potential claims against estates. This work shapes how an estate is settled and can influence tax positions and final distributions.
Why this work is usually handled by a solicitor
Solicitors bring professional safeguards to settling estates, including professional indemnity insurance, adherence to regulatory rules, and oversight of client money. They verify the validity of wills, manage executors’ duties, prepare grant applications, and handle estate accounts, ensuring compliance with tax and reporting obligations. They can also assist in resolving disputes among beneficiaries and navigating contested probate or trust issues.