This area covers the estate of a person who has died, including applying for probate or letters of administration, dealing with assets and debts, and distributing the estate where there is or may be an intestacy. A solicitor in this field drafts and lodges probate applications, inventories assets, negotiates with banks and HMRC, settles tax liabilities, collects assets, pays debts and legacies, and prepares estate accounts for beneficiaries or executors. It can involve challenging or complex issues such as disputed wills, missing beneficiaries, or claims under life policies and trusts.
Why this work is usually handled by a solicitor
A solicitor handles the preparation and submission of probate or letters of administration, valuations of the estate, tax considerations, and the formal distribution of assets. They advise on the duties of executors, protect vulnerable beneficiaries, and ensure regulatory and fiduciary obligations are met, including client account handling and compliance with applicable professional standards.
