What Do Probate Solicitors Do? A Complete Guide

Hear From our Specialist Wills & Probate Lawyers

When a loved one passes away, dealing with legal and financial matters can feel overwhelming. This is where probate solicitors come in to help simplify things and take the pressure off. They help manage the legal process of distributing an estate, ensuring everything is handled correctly and in line with UK law.

In this article, our local probate solicitors will delve into the topic of Wills, Estates and Probate to help you gain a better understanding of what we do to help in difficult times. As a result, you can see the advantages of hiring a probate lawyer as opposed to handling things on your own. 

Let’s start with the basics… 

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate. It includes:

• Verifying the validity of a will (if one exists)
• Identifying and valuing assets
• Paying off any debts, taxes, and liabilities
• Distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries

If there is no will, the estate is distributed under intestacy rules, which define how assets are allocated among surviving family members. 

What Exactly Do Probate Lawyers Do?

At Painters Law, we have a team of legal specialists who are trusted professionals assisting executors and beneficiaries in navigating the probate process. We can help with:

1. Applying for Probate (Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration)

• If a will exists, the executor must apply for a Grant of Probate.
• If there is no will, the next of kin must apply for Letters of Administration to manage the estate.
• A probate solicitor ensures all necessary forms are completed accurately and submitted to the Probate Registry.

2. Identifying & Valuing the Estate

• Wills and Probate solicitors can help locate all assets, including property, bank accounts, pensions, shares, and investments.
• They assess the total value of the estate, which is essential for calculating inheritance tax.

3. Managing Inheritance Tax & Other Liabilities

• Estates valued over a certain amount may be subject to Inheritance Tax (IHT) at 40%.
• Solicitors ensure IHT is calculated correctly and advise on possible tax reliefs. At Painters Law, we understand that Inheritance Tax can be overwhelming to understand, so we’re here to support and ensure our clients are well-informed of the process throughout.
• We can also handle outstanding debts, funeral expenses, and any claims against the estate.

4. Handling Disputes & Will Contests

If there are disputes over the will, a probate solicitor can provide legal advice and mediation.

They represent clients in contentious probate cases, such as claims of undue influence, lack of mental capacity, or unfair distribution.

If you are looking for further advice on contesting a will, Painters Law has a team of will solicitors to guide you through the process and establish whether you have grounds to dispute. 

5. Distributing the Estate to Beneficiaries

• After debts and taxes are cleared, the estate is distributed according to the will (or intestacy rules if no will exists).
• Solicitors ensure all legal paperwork is completed and funds are transferred correctly.

You may be wondering if you need a probate solicitor, so our team has detailed some of the advantages that come with instructing a legal professional. 

Do I Need a Probate Solicitor?

While it's possible to apply for probate yourself, it can be complex and time-consuming. Here are key reasons to hire a probate solicitor:

• Minimise Stress – Grieving families can avoid legal burdens.
• Avoid Errors – Incorrect probate applications can cause costly delays.
• Ensure Legal Compliance – Solicitors ensure everything meets UK probate laws.
• Tax Efficiency – Expert tax planning can help reduce inheritance tax liability.
• Avoid Family Disputes – Legal guidance helps prevent conflicts among beneficiaries.

Why Choose us for UK Probate Services?

Compassionate & Client-Focused 

At Painters Law, we pride ourselves on offering more than just legal advice, we provide compassionate and personalised support during a difficult time. We understand that every estate is unique, and we take the time to listen, understand, and guide you through the probate process with care and sensitivity.

Expert Legal Guidance from Experienced Probate Solicitors

With years of experience in probate and estate administration, our solicitors in the West Midlands have successfully handled estates of all sizes, from straightforward cases to high-value and complex estates. We stay current to UK probate laws, tax regulations, and estate planning strategies to offer reliable, expert legal support tailored to your unique situation.

Efficient & Stress-Free Probate Process

Losing a loved one is already difficult—probate shouldn’t add to your stress. Our team ensures that the entire probate process is handled smoothly, reducing the burden on executors and beneficiaries. Let our probate solicitors in Worcestershire and surrounding areas take care of everything.

Need Probate Assistance? Contact Painters Law Today

If you're dealing with probate and need professional support, our team at Painters Law is ready to assist. Contact us for a free initial consultation to discuss your case.