Brandon
Bury St Edmunds
Norwich
Thetford
Probate solicitors
Professional, person-centred legal advice following a death
It can feel like a daunting task to take on the estate administration of a person's assets after their death. Our team of specialist probate lawyers are on hand to guide you through the legal processes of distributing the deceased's estate.
We understand losing a loved one is an emotional and challenging time. The probate process can feel overwhelming; we're here to provide guidance that's both practical and compassionate.
We listen, clearly explain what's happening, and tailor our services around your needs – so you feel fully supported and able to move forward with confidence. We handle the legal complexities, giving you time and space to focus on what matters most.
Expert probate support, every step of the way
We provide comprehensive probate services to guide executors or administrators (collectively known as Personal Representatives or ‘PRs’) through the process of managing an estate. From handling inheritance tax and estate accounts to overseeing the distribution of personal assets, we’re here to help navigate even the most complex estates.
Whether the deceased person had a valid will or intestacy rules need to be applied in cases where no will exists, we’ll support you in understanding all aspects of probate and estate administration that are relevant to your role as an executor.
Key contacts
Head of Department & Partner Solicitor
Senior Associate Solicitor
Solicitor
What is probate?
Probate is the legal process of managing a person's estate after they've passed away. This includes identifying their assets, settling any outstanding debts or taxes, and distributing what remains to the rightful beneficiaries.
The probate process makes sure the deceased's affairs are handled correctly and in accordance with their wishes or, if there is no will, in line with intestacy laws.
If a valid will exists, it will usually name executors responsible for administering the estate. If no will is in place, the process differs slightly, and an administrator will need to be appointed instead. You can learn more about how our probate solicitors can help below.
Our probate services
Our dedicated and experienced probate solicitors work across the following areas:
Identifying the legally appointed executors or administrators and beneficiaries
Accurately identifying the type of probate application you'll require
Obtaining the relevant information required to make the probate application
Completing the probate application and any relevant HMRC forms
Submitting the application to the probate court on your behalf
Obtaining the probate and securely sending two copies to you
Collecting and distributing all assets in the person's estate to the right beneficiaries
How can we help you with a probate application?
Identifying executors and administrators
We'll begin by identifying the people or person legally responsible for executing the will. This could be you, or someone else, or more than one person.
Assessing the type of
probate required
Once we've got this information, our probate lawyers will investigate what type of probate application is required. We'll work out whether there will be any inheritance tax owed, and whether you need to complete an inheritance tax return.
We'll then complete any HMRC forms that you need to submit.
Applying for a grant
of probate
If a grant of probate is needed, we'll begin that process. A grant of probate is often required if the deceased owned residential property solely in their name or if the estate includes high-value assets.
Grants of probate can be complicated and time-consuming; our attentive and reliable team are highly experienced in this area and are happy to discuss what needs to happen throughout the process.
Finalising probate and
estate administration
Once we've assembled all the information we need, we'll complete all the required forms and apply to the probate court on your behalf. You can find details of our probate fees on our fees page.
We'll securely send you two copies of the probate once it’s obtained. We can assist you with all of the estate administration, including distributing the deceased's assets to the relevant people or organisations.
What other aspects of probate can we provide support with?
Handling contentious probate –
In a case of contentious probate, where the validity or interpretation of a will is contested, our probate solicitors will work with our in-house dispute resolution specialists to advise you on the best course of action and support you with the next steps.
Managing complex estates and trusts
Many of our team are experienced trust and estate practitioners who specialise in managing deceased owned property, trusts and other assets that may be more complex.
There may be elements of the estate that you need clarification on. For example, typically a joint bank account (unless a notice of severance has been completed in their lifetime) will pass to the surviving bank account holder under the rules of survivorship and does not fall into the deceased estate.
Speak with our probate solicitors today
We know dealing with probate can be both legally and emotionally demanding, which is why we provide more than just expert legal support
– we provide reassurance and clear guidance. We make sure you and your family have everything you need to move forward with confidence.
Find Rudlings' offices across East Anglia in Norwich, Brandon, Thetford, and Bury St Edmunds. For advice
on probate and other issues relating to estate assets, contact our team and they’ll be happy to speak with you.
