Probate Services
Supporting You Through the Court Process During Challenging Times
Probate Assistance & Estate Administration Support
We understand that dealing with probate and estate administration can feel overwhelming, particularly during an already difficult time. Our role is to make the process clearer, more manageable, and less stressful by providing practical guidance and experienced support.
At Harratts Legal Services, we specialise in probate assistance and estate administration support. We help executors and families understand what needs to be done and guide them through each stage of the process. Whether you have been appointed as an executor under a Will, or you are dealing with an estate where there is no Will, we are here to assist.
Our service is flexible and supportive, meaning we can help with as much or as little as you need. This may include guidance on probate applications, understanding executor responsibilities, estate administration support, and general procedural assistance. You remain in control at all times, with our team supporting you throughout.
Important Information About Our Role
Harratts Legal Services does not act as a firm of solicitors and does not provide regulated legal advice. Our probate-assist service is limited to administrative support, practical assistance, and general guidance. Where a matter requires regulated legal advice or the carrying out of reserved legal activities, we will explain this clearly and recommend that you seek advice from a qualified solicitor or other appropriately regulated professional.
If you are unsure how probate works or what support you may need, our FAQs below address some of the most common questions and explain how we can help.
Our Probate Assist Fees
Our probate assist service is a fixed fee of £2,500. Please contact the office to arrange a free of charge consultation or email [email protected]
FEes & Pricing
Our fees are clear and transparent. The cost of this service will be fully explained to you before you decide to proceed. Prices are confirmed in writing and include VAT where applicable. Any third-party or statutory costs will be explained separately in advance. A full price list is available here: Price List
| Probate Services | Price |
|---|---|
| Probate Assist Service | Fixed Fee £2,500.00 |
| Probate Application Fee | £ 300.00 (payable to the Court) |
| Additional Sealed Copies of the Grant | £ 16.00 per copy (payable to the Court) |
Your Right to Cancel
You have a 14-day cooling-off period from the date you instruct us, during which you may cancel without giving any reason. If you request us to begin work during this period, you may be required to pay for work already completed. Full details are set out in our Terms of Business.
If you are unhappy with any aspect of our service, you have the right to raise a complaint. Our complaints procedure explains how complaints are handled fairly and promptly.
FAQs
What is probate?
Probate is the legal process that enables an executor to manage a person’s money, property, and belongings (their estate) after they pass away. Essentially, it serves as official authorisation to handle all the important matters left behind.
When someone passes away, their estate typically goes through probate to ensure everything is settled properly. This includes applying for the legal right to manage their assets, settling any outstanding debts, and distributing the remaining property in accordance with their wishes.
To begin this process, a grant of probate is required.
What is a grant of probate?
A grant of probate is the official document issued by the court that confirms the executor named in the will has the legal authority to manage the estate. It serves as legal proof that the will is valid, granting the executor the power to handle assets, settle debts, and distribute the estate according to the deceased’s wishes.
Securing a grant of probate is a crucial step in the probate process, as it gives the executor the legal authority to fulfil their responsibilities. This involves preparing and submitting the necessary application forms and supporting documents to the Probate Registry. Once the grant of probate is issued, the executor can begin managing the estate.
At Harratts Legal Services, we understand that this process can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. We are here to provide the guidance and support you need to ensure you fully understand each step of the process.
When is probate needed?
The need for probate depends on several factors, including the value and type of assets, as well as whether a valid will is in place.
In most cases, probate is required when the deceased person owns assets solely in their name. This can include property, bank accounts, investments, or valuable personal items. If these assets have significant value, probate is usually necessary to ensure their proper and legal transfer of ownership.
Do I need probate if there is already a will?
Having a valid will doesn’t always mean probate is required. The need for probate depends on several factors, and each situation can be different.
If the deceased person solely owned assets without any designated beneficiaries, probate is usually necessary. In such cases, the assets cannot be transferred to the intended beneficiaries without involving the court.
However, there are circumstances where probate may not be needed, even if a will is in place. For example, if assets were jointly owned with someone else, such as a spouse or partner, they may pass directly to the surviving joint owner without the need for probate.