Probate is the legal document which gives the executors the authority to deal with a person's assets after their death. We can help guide you through this process.

A Grant of Probate needs to be obtained if a person dies leaving possessions or property in their sole name over £5000. A Grant of Probate (if there is a will) or Letters of Administration (if there is no will) must be obtained in order for bank accounts to be closed, property sold or transferred, the deceased’s debts cleared and for the estate to be distributed to those entitled.

Unlike other firms of solicitors, at Wilkin Chapman LLP, we offer a flexible service and will tailor our service and the cost according to what you would like us to assist you with.

We can help you with;

• Obtaining the Grant of Probate or Letters of  Administration document only.
• The completion of the Inheritance Tax paperwork either the short form account IHT 205 (2006) (where there is no inheritance tax to pay) or the full account IHT 400.
• The completion of income tax returns for the previous tax year and to the date of the deceased’s death.
• Telephone advice and assistance to guide you through the probate process if you wish to deal with all the paperwork yourself.
• Checking documents on your behalf before they are submitted to the Probate Registry and HM Revenue and Customs.

Or we can deal with everything for you, it is up to you.

Wilkin Chapman LLP has 6 qualified members of The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). STEP is an international society purely for professionals in the field of tax planning, trust and estates. Rigorous exams have to be passed to gain membership to the society. With continuing training and legislative updates provided by STEP, our team are able to offer you a first class service.

For further advice, please contact one of our specialist lawyers in your area.