AHJ Wills & Estates
Probate and Estate Administration.
Dealing with an estate
Probate
AHJ Wills & Estates can help with many aspects of the probate and estate administration process.
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Let us answer some of the most common questions regarding probate and estate administration.
The Probate process explained...
Read Andrew’s article about the probate process and hear about how the experienced team here at AHJ WIlls & Estates can help.
Probate and Estate Administration
Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with their estate can feel overwhelming at such a difficult time. Probate and estate administration is the legal process of collecting assets, paying any debts and taxes, and distributing what remains to beneficiaries.
At AHJ Wills & Estates, we provide compassionate and efficient support with probate and estate administration. Whether you are named as an executor in a Will or are responsible for dealing with an estate where no Will exists, our team can guide you through the process or take care of everything on your behalf.
What does probate involve?
The probate process in England and Wales usually includes:
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Applying for the Grant of Probate (if there is a Will) or Letters of Administration (if there is no Will).
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Identifying, valuing, and collecting the deceased’s assets.
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Paying any outstanding debts, liabilities, and taxes, including inheritance tax.
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Distributing the estate to beneficiaries in line with the Will or intestacy rules.
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Probate and Estate Administration
How can AHJ Wills & Estates help you?
What does probate involve?
The probate process in England and Wales usually includes:
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Applying for the Grant of Probate (if there is a Will) or Letters of Administration (if there is no Will).
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Identifying, valuing, and collecting the deceased’s assets.
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Paying any outstanding debts, liabilities, and taxes, including inheritance tax.
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Distributing the estate to beneficiaries in line with the Will or intestacy rules.
Why professional help matters
Probate can be complex, particularly where property, trusts, or inheritance tax are involved. Executors and administrators are legally responsible for managing the estate properly, which can feel like a heavy burden. Mistakes may delay the process or even create personal liability.
By working with AHJ Wills & Estates, you benefit from expert guidance and the reassurance that every step is handled correctly. We can take on as much or as little of the administration as you need, from providing initial advice to managing the entire estate.
Our approach
We understand that every family is different. Our service is designed to ease the pressure during a difficult time, giving you the space to focus on what matters most. With a combination of legal knowledge and a caring approach, we make the probate process clear, efficient, and stress free.
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Probate and Estate Administration FAQs
What is probate?
Probate is the legal process of proving a Will and giving executors the authority to deal with the estate. If there is no Will, the process is called estate administration and involves applying for Letters of Administration.
When is probate needed?
Probate is usually required if the person who has died owned property in their sole name or held significant assets, such as savings or investments. Smaller estates, particularly those with joint assets, may not need probate.
Who applies for probate?
If there is a Will, the named executors apply for probate. If there is no Will, the next of kin can apply to be the administrator of the estate.
How long does probate take?
The timescale varies depending on the complexity of the estate. On average, straightforward estates take between six and twelve months to complete. More complex estates involving property sales, trusts, or inheritance tax can take longer.
What are executors responsible for?
Executors are legally responsible for collecting assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the estate to beneficiaries. They must keep clear records and act in the best interests of the estate at all times.
Can I deal with probate myself?
Yes, but it can be complex and time consuming, particularly if there are tax liabilities or disputes between beneficiaries. Many executors choose professional support to reduce stress and ensure the process is completed correctly.
What are the costs of probate?
There is a government fee for applying for probate, and additional costs if inheritance tax is due. Professional fees vary depending on the level of support required. At AHJ Wills & Estates, we provide clear information on costs from the outset.
How can AHJ Wills & Estates help?
We can provide advice, help with specific parts of the probate process, or manage the full administration on your behalf. Our role is to make the process as straightforward as possible, easing the pressure at a difficult time.
What is the difference between Probate and Estate Administration?
The terms are often used together, but they are not exactly the same.
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Probate is the legal process of proving a Will and confirming that the executors named in it have the authority to deal with the estate. If a Will exists, an application is made for a Grant of Probate.
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Estate Administration is the wider process of dealing with everything in the estate. This includes applying for probate (if required), collecting assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing what remains to beneficiaries.
If there is no Will, probate cannot be granted. Instead, the process is called estate administration, and a close relative applies for Letters of Administration to be appointed as the administrator.
In short, probate is often just one part of estate administration.