In the UK when somebody dies there are fortunately strict laws in place to ensure that their estate is properly dispersed of and in accordance to their wishes. The term “probate” refers to the act or process involved in obtaining legal recognition that the will is valid and authentic. Probatelaw.org.uk are a team of UK probate solicitors with expertise in dealing with UK probate issues and are able to advise on UK probate law and regulations. It could be that you do not want to, or are uncertain as to how to act as an executor – after all it isn’t something people get to do very often.
Perhaps you want to appoint someone to deal with the disposal of your of assets/property when you their die but are unsure of how to do this or who would be considered suitable especially if you do not have family or would rather not leave anything to them. Or maybe your spouse or family member has died in-testate (without leaving a will). Where this happens a blood relation can apply for a grant of “letters of administration”- the law regarding intestacy will be fully explained to you by a probatelaw.org.uk solicitor.
The probate solicitor will discuss with you all the stages of the probate process to ensure you act within probate law. They will ascertain with you the value of the estate and contact the banks and other fund/asset holding organisations to establish whether probate is required – should the estate be below £5000 usually this is not needed. Irrespective of whether inheritance tax is payable or not,
probate is normally required and you must by law ensure that the Inheritance Tax form is completed. Compiling these forms can be done with the guidance of your solicitor. You will be advised as to whether inheritance tax is payable or not. You may be required to visit the local Probate Office to swear an oath. Once everything is completed and you are in receipt of a grant of representation by law you can then access the deceased’s assets. You will be expected by lay to pay any outstanding debts owed by the deceased out of the estate before you then distribute the funds. (Reference - HM Revenue and Customs)
If you find the above complex, then rest assured that help is there and all you need do is select probatelaw.org.uk on Solicitor Search Network.
