Probate Solicitors & Contentious Probate Experts

Probate Solicitors

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is difficult enough without the added burden of managing their estate. Our probate solicitors understand the weight of this responsibility and provide clear, practical guidance when you need it most. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what matters—honouring your loved one’s wishes and supporting your family.

With over 40 years’ experience, our team delivers expert probate services across Essex, Suffolk, and London. Whether you’re administering a straightforward estate or facing a contested Will, we’re here to help.

Contact us today on 0845 543 5700 or via our online enquiry form for expert probate advice.

Our Probate Services

Our probate solicitors provide comprehensive support throughout the estate administration process:

Estate Administration – We handle the complete management of the deceased’s estate from start to finish, including liaising with banks, building societies, pension providers, and other institutions to gather and distribute assets. This removes the administrative burden during an already difficult time.

Obtaining Grants of Probate – We prepare and submit all necessary documentation to secure the legal authority to administer the estate, whether that’s a grant of probate (when there’s a Will) or letters of administration (when there isn’t). This legal document allows you to access and distribute the deceased’s assets.

Inheritance Tax Advice and Returns – Our specialists provide expert guidance on inheritance tax liabilities, identify available reliefs and exemptions, and prepare accurate returns for HMRC. We ensure you don’t pay more tax than necessary while meeting all compliance obligations.

Property Sales and Transfers – We coordinate the sale or transfer of residential and commercial property within the estate, working with estate agents, buyers’ solicitors, and Land Registry to complete transactions efficiently and achieve the best outcomes for beneficiaries.

Asset Distribution – We ensure all beneficiaries receive their rightful inheritance according to the Will or intestacy rules, providing full estate accounts and documentation. We handle the practical aspects of transferring money, property, and personal possessions with complete transparency.

Contentious Probate Matters – When disputes arise, we provide robust representation in challenges to Wills, disputes over executor conduct, claims of undue influence or lack of capacity, and disagreements between beneficiaries. We aim to resolve matters efficiently while protecting your interests.

Inheritance Act Claims – We represent clients pursuing or defending claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, where individuals believe they haven’t received adequate provision from an estate. This commonly affects spouses, children, and dependants who were financially reliant on the deceased.

Executor Support and Guidance – Serving as an executor carries significant legal responsibilities. We provide practical assistance to executors throughout the process, explaining your duties, helping you avoid common pitfalls, and ensuring you fulfil your obligations correctly to protect you from personal liability.

Trust Administration – We manage ongoing trusts created through Wills, ensuring trustees understand their obligations, assets are invested appropriately, and distributions are made correctly to beneficiaries over time. This includes advice on tax planning and compliance with trust law.

How Our Probate Process Works

We’ve designed our probate service to be as straightforward as possible during a difficult time:

1. Initial Consultation: We meet with you to understand the estate, review the Will (if there is one), and explain your options. We’ll provide a clear breakdown of costs and timescales.

2. Estate Valuation: We identify and value all assets and liabilities, liaising with banks, pension providers, and other institutions on your behalf.

3. Tax Assessment and Grant Application: We calculate any inheritance tax due, submit returns to HMRC, and apply for the grant of probate or letters of administration.

4. Estate Settlement: Once we receive the grant, we settle outstanding debts, sell or transfer property as required, and prepare estate accounts.

5. Distribution to Beneficiaries: We distribute the estate according to the Will (or intestacy rules), ensuring all beneficiaries receive their entitlement with full documentation.

Most straightforward estates are settled within 9-12 months, though complex matters or disputes can extend this timeframe.

Why Choose FJG’s Probate Solicitors

Recognised Expertise: Our Wills, Life Planning and Probate team is ranked as a Leading Firm in the Legal 500. We’re members of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers (formerly Solicitors for the Elderly), Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).

Fixed-Fee Transparency: We offer fixed costs on probate services wherever possible, so you know exactly what you’re paying from the outset. No hidden surprises.

Compassionate Approach: We know you’re dealing with grief alongside legal responsibilities. Some of our team members are trained as Dementia Friends and experienced in handling sensitive family matters with care and discretion.

Contentious Probate Specialists: When disputes arise, our litigation-trained probate solicitors provide robust representation. We’ve successfully resolved complex inheritance disputes, Will challenges, and executor misconduct cases.

Local Presence, Expert Service: With offices across Essex (Colchester, Chelmsford, Billericay, Braintree, and Clacton-on-Sea), Suffolk, and London, we’re always within reach. We can also meet you at home or in hospital if needed.

Ready to move forward with probate or need advice on a disputed estate? Our expert team is here to guide you through every step.

Call us on 0845 543 5700 or complete our online enquiry form to arrange a consultation.

Probate FAQs

What is probate?

Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. It involves proving the validity of their Will (or establishing who inherits if there’s no Will), paying any debts and taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. The grant of probate gives executors the legal authority to access the deceased’s assets.

Do I need probate solicitors?

While it’s possible to handle probate yourself, most people find it helpful to instruct probate solicitors. The process involves complex legal and tax matters, strict deadlines, and detailed paperwork. Getting it wrong can result in personal liability or delays. Our probate solicitors manage everything efficiently, giving you peace of mind during an already difficult time.

How long does probate take?

The timeframe varies depending on the estate’s complexity. Straightforward estates typically take 9-12 months from start to finish. Complex estates involving multiple properties, business interests, or inheritance disputes can take longer. We’ll give you a realistic timeline after our initial assessment.

What does probate cost?

Probate costs depend on the estate’s size and complexity. We offer fixed fees for straightforward estate administration, so you’ll know the costs upfront. For more complex matters, we’ll provide a detailed estimate. Court fees and disbursements (such as valuations or property searches) are additional to our legal fees.

What happens if someone contests the Will?

Will disputes can arise for various reasons—questions about the deceased’s mental capacity, allegations of undue influence, or claims under the Inheritance Act. Our contentious probate solicitors have extensive experience resolving these disputes, either through negotiation or court proceedings if necessary.

Can I act as executor if I live abroad?

Yes, executors can live abroad, though it can complicate the administration process. Many overseas executors appoint probate solicitors to handle the day-to-day administration in the UK. We can manage the entire process on your behalf, keeping you informed throughout.

What if there's no Will?

When someone dies without a valid Will (known as dying “intestate”), their estate is distributed according to the intestacy rules. These rules follow a strict hierarchy, typically prioritising spouses and children. We can guide you through the intestacy process and apply for letters of administration to manage the estate.

How is inheritance tax calculated?

Inheritance tax is charged at 40% on estates exceeding the nil-rate band (currently £325,000, with additional allowances for property passing to direct descendants). Various exemptions and reliefs can reduce the tax burden. Our probate solicitors provide specialist inheritance tax advice to minimise your liability legally.

Probate Solicitors