The term ‘probate attorneys’ is not typically used in the UK; it is a US phrase. Here, the legal professionals who handle probate and estate administration matters are referred to as probate solicitors. At Bartlett’s, the solicitors in our experienced probate team have been supporting families with probate and estate administration matters for generations, and we pride ourselves on offering an exceptional service that combines technical legal expertise with a personal touch.
Why Choose Barlett’s To Help You With Your Probate Matter?
Dealing with the estate of a loved one after they pass away can be one of the most difficult and overwhelming responsibilities you will ever face. At such an emotional time, it is vital to have a legal team on your side who you can trust to guide you through the process with professionalism, clarity, and compassion.
The probate specialists at Bartlett’s offer our clients a variety of key benefits, which include the following:
• Outstanding Legal Expertise
Handling probate can be incredibly complicated, and getting it wrong can exacerbate the stress already inherent in the process. Our probate solicitors possess the expertise and experience required to ensure your matter proceeds as swiftly, seamlessly, and cost-efficiently as possible.
• Trusted Local Experience
Bartletts has been serving clients across Chester, Liverpool, and Wrexham for over 150 years. During that time, we have become an integral part of our local communities, and we have developed a reputation for reliability and integrity. Families return to us time and again because they know that not only do we handle probate matters professionally and efficiently, but we are also approachable, friendly, and compassionate. Our long history means we understand both the legal complexities and the sensitivities involved in dealing with bereavement.
• A Comprehensive Probate Service
The tasks involved in probate cases can range from relatively straightforward applications to highly complex matters involving inheritance tax, property sales, and disputes between beneficiaries.
Our probate solicitors are experienced in all aspects of probate law and practice and can provide as much or as little support as you require. Examples of the types of tasks our probate solicitors routinely handle on behalf of our clients include the following:
- Applying for a Grant of Probate (on behalf of executors) or Letters of Administration (on behalf of administrators)
- Valuing the estate, including obtaining professional valuations where necessary
- Collecting assets, including property, bank accounts, pensions, and investments
- Settling the estate’s debts and liabilities
- Identifying and locating all beneficiaries
- Preparing and filing inheritance tax returns
- Distributing the estate to beneficiaries
- Preparing estate accounts
- Advising executors and administrators on their legal duties and how they can comply with them
- Advising anyone involved in the probate process, including beneficiaries, executors, and administrators, on any contentious matters, such as the validity of the will and concerns over conduct.
Whether you only need advice on a discrete aspect of the probate process or would prefer us to handle the entire matter on your behalf, our probate solicitors are perfectly placed to help you.
• A Personal Approach
At Bartlett’s, we understand that probate is not just about processes and paperwork – first and foremost, it is about people. Families often come to us for advice at a time of grief and stress, and they need not only legal advice but also reassurance and compassion. Our probate team has a reputation for being friendly and compassionate, and for taking the time to get to know each and every one of our clients. As a result, we enjoy longstanding relationships built on trust with many of our clients, who consistently recommend us to their families and friends.
• Clear And Transparent Pricing
One of the biggest concerns for many of our clients is how much probate is likely to cost. At Bartletts, we are committed to providing real value for money and being completely transparent when it comes to fees.
For probate and estate administration matters, we typically charge an hourly rate of up to £200 plus VAT, so you only pay us for the work we carry out on your file. In addition, we reassure our clients by capping our fees at no more than 2% of the gross estate value. This means that you will never face unexpected or disproportionate bills allowing you to budget for your legal fees accordingly.
At the outset, we will provide you with a written estimate tailored to the estate with which you are concerned, which we will ask you to approve before we start work. We will explain the likely costs, any third-party disbursements, such as probate court fees, and answer any queries you may have promptly and clearly.
To speak to our experts please call us free of charge on 0800 988 3674 or Make A Free Online Enquiry.