Probate Services England and Wales: A Guide from AHJ Wills & Estates

Hello, I’m Andrew, Managing Director at AHJ Wills & Estates. Over the years, I have supported many families with probate services in England and Wales, and I know how confusing the process can feel. In this article, I want to explain what probate is, when it is needed, and why seeking professional support can make the process smoother.

What are probate services in England and Wales?

Probate is the legal process that confirms someone has the authority to deal with a person’s estate after they die. If there is a valid Will, the executors must apply for a Grant of Probate. This document gives them the legal right to collect assets, pay debts and taxes, and distribute the estate in line with the Will.

If there is no Will, probate cannot be granted. Instead, relatives can apply for Letters of Administration and act as administrators. This falls under the wider category of estate administration.

For further details, you can read the official GOV.UK guide to probate.

When are probate services needed?

Not every estate requires probate. Probate is usually needed if:

• The deceased owned property in their sole name.

• There are substantial assets such as bank accounts, shares, or investments in their sole name.

Each financial institution sets its own limits for when probate is required. For smaller estates or jointly owned assets, probate may not be necessary.

The probate process explained

When probate is required, the executor’s responsibilities include:

• Applying for the Grant of Probate.

• Identifying and valuing all assets and liabilities.

• Paying debts, bills, and any inheritance tax owed.

• Closing accounts and transferring or selling property.

• Distributing the estate to beneficiaries.

As part of probate services in England and Wales, executors must act carefully, as they are legally responsible for mistakes or delays.

Why probate can feel overwhelming

Many families underestimate the amount of work involved. Probate is not just a piece of paperwork. It often takes months and requires communication with banks, HMRC, and estate agents. Executors must keep records and meet deadlines, all while dealing with their own grief.

This is why so many families choose professional help with probate services.

How AHJ Wills & Estates can help

At AHJ Wills & Estates, our experienced team provides clear and compassionate support with probate services in England and Wales. We can:

• Guide executors through their responsibilities.

• Handle the full estate administration on your behalf.

• Ensure applications are completed correctly.

• Manage assets, debts, and taxes lawfully and efficiently.

For families in Sheffield and South Yorkshire, our local knowledge combined with specialist expertise makes a difficult process more manageable. You can also read more on our Probate and Estate Administration page for further details.

Talk to us today

If you need help with probate services in England and Wales, AHJ Wills & Estates is here to make the process less stressful and more straightforward.

Contact AHJ Wills & Estates today:
Telephone: 0114 553 5416
Email: info@ahjwillsandestates.com