What is Probate?

We are a small friendly firm, who are committed to providing our clients a friendly and approachable service throughout England and Wales. We take pride in meeting our clients’ needs and expectations as we focus on people, and  we aim at making lasting relationships through the provision of excellent levels of service to all our clients. Although based in Burgess Hill we are happy to act for anyone located throughout England and Wales.

What is probate?

When a person dies somebody has to deal with their estate (all money property and possessions owned by the deceased) by collecting in all the money, paying any debts and distributing what is left to those people entitled to it. These people are known as the executors and/or trustees.
Probate is actually the word used for the court’s authority given to a person to administer the estate of a deceased person. Written authority is provided to you and this is called a Grant of Probate (where there is a valid Will); Letters of Administration (where there is no Will). The Probate Registry is the authority issuing the Grants.

The Grant of Probate is the document usually required by the banks buildings societies etc., as proof to show you have the authority to administer the estate. Valuations of all assets are obtained. Sales of assets must be undertaken i.e. sales of property; jewelry goods etc.

Once all monies are collected in then all debts are repaid and accounts are drawn up showing the monies coming into an estate and the monies going out. The Accounts are agreed by the Executors and/or trustees. Once the accounts are agreed all monies may be paid out and the estate wound up.

Of course there are also other matters to deal with e.g. Inland Revenue income tax; the estate may be subject to Inheritance Tax whereas the correct tax forms must be completed and sent to the Probate Registry.

Probate can be very time consuming and depending on the size of the estate complicated. Stevens Son and Pope will be happy to deal with probate on your behalf in an efficient and speedy manner.