A man who successfully challenged his mother's final will is likely to recover the lion's share of...
When you are mourning the loss of a loved one, the prospect of dealing with the deceased's estate can be daunting.
Depending on the circumstances of the deceased, it can also be complicated and time-consuming.
Why would you use a solicitor to administer an estate?
The process can be complex but a solicitor who specialises in these matters will know exactly what steps to take and in what order. They are likely to be able to deal with matters more swiftly and efficiently.
The solicitor will take responsibility for the administration process, so you do not have to worry about getting things wrong at a time when you may be grieving for your loved one.
If there is any prospect of a family disagreement over money or property, then a professional will be able to handle these issues appropriately and without personal involvement. As an executor, if you instruct a solicitor to handle or assist with handling the process, you are able to demonstrate that you have acted in accordance with the Will and in accordance with current law.
There are certain circumstances during probate where executors can be held personally liable if they fail to correctly carry out the legal duties and procedures e.g.
- Failure to safeguard assets - e.g. executors failing to take steps to preserve the value of the property of the deceased
- Misappropriation of assets - e.g. executors using the estate assets for their own means
- Failure to submit correct tax returns - either within the correct timescales or with the correct information and supporting paperwork
How can Pickerings help to administer an estate?
Pickerings probate team can either handle the entire process for you, or alternatively you can reduce legal costs by seeking our help only at key stages e.g. to obtain a Grant from the Probate Registry.
If you are uncertain whether to handle the estate administration yourself, why not call one of our team, who will be able to advise as to the complexity of the process and likely cost of our assistance. You are under no obligation to proceed with us but at least you will have an idea of what is involved.
We often assist clients who have started the administration process and then encounter a difficulty which means that professional advice is needed.
Contact Emma Harrison on 01827 317081 or email eharrison@pickerings-solicitors.com
Emma and her team have many years of experience in probate administration and can provide you with the reassurance of using a highly qualified and fully insured professional as opposed to an 'administrator' who may have attended a brief training course.
