Probate Specialists Supporting You Through Estate Administration
When someone passes away, probate is often required to deal with their estate. This process, commonly referred to as Grant of Probate (where there is a Will) or Letters of Administration (where no Will is in place), gives legal authority to access and administer assets, settle liabilities, and distribute the estate in line with a Will or the rules of intestacy. Our probate solicitors are here to guide you through this process with clarity and care.
We can now offer early and late appointments between 8am and 6pm, subject to availability
What is Probate and How Does it Work?
Probate is the legal process that allows executors or administrators to deal with a deceased person’s estate. This may involve applying for a Grant of Probate where there is a Will, or Letters of Administration where there is no Will in place.
Probate is usually required where the estate includes property, investments, or assets over a certain value. A probate valuation helps establish the estate’s worth before it can be distributed. Understanding what to do about a will when someone dies is often the first step in this process.
How Long Does the Probate Process Take?
The probate process can vary depending on the size and complexity of an estate.
Straightforward estates are often finalised in several months while more complex estates can take longer. This often includes estates involving multiple property sales, numerous beneficiaries, inheritance tax considerations, business assets or overseas interests.
At Banner Jones, our probate solicitors provide realistic timescales from the outset and during administration of an estate to ensure you are kept fully informed at every stage of the process.
Probate Services We Provide
Our probate solicitors offer a full range of services, including:
- Full Estate Administration, managing the process from start to finish
- Grant of Probate and Letters of Administration applications
- Advice on what to do about a Will when someone dies, including immediate next steps
- Probate valuations and inheritance tax considerations
- Support with selling property as part of an estate
Areas We Cover
We provide local probate support across Derbyshire, South Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire. Clients regularly instruct our probate solicitors in:
- Chesterfield and surrounding areas
- Dronfield
- Sheffield
- Mansfield
We work closely with individuals seeking wills and probate solicitors in Sheffield and Chesterfield and support estates through our team of probate experts in Mansfield and the surrounding areas.
Our local presence allows us to deliver practical, accessible advice wherever you are based.
Why Choose Banner Jones Solictors?
At Banner Jones, we have an established and long-standing presence, with specialist departments covering Wills, probate and related legal matters. This means you have access to the right expertise when you need it, without being passed between firms.
We work using a team-based approach to ensure continuity, responsiveness and clear communication throughout your matter. Clients value knowing that there is always someone familiar working on their matter available to help. This can be particularly reassuring at what can be a difficult time during the probate process.
With multiple offices across the region, recognised professional standards and consistently strong client feedback, we provide practical support and confidence at what can be an emotional time.
Contact our experienced probate solicitors today to discuss your situation and get clear advice on managing probate and estate administration.
What if a dispute arises during administration?
If a dispute arises, our probate team can advise on resolution options and where necessary involve our dispute resolution team to help protect the estate and beneficiaries.
How much does probate cost?
Costs can vary depending on the estate. We provide fixed fees wherever possible so that you know what to expect from the outset.
Do I need a solicitor for probate if there is no Will?
Not always, however, estates without a Will can be more complex. Our probate solicitors can help you understand your responsibilities to help you reduce any risk during the administration of an estate.
How long after death must probate be started?
There is no fixed legal deadline for applying for probate but delays can cause practical and financial issues. Inheritance tax is usually payable within 6 months of the date of death and executors are expected to administer an estate within a reasonable time. Seeking early legal advice can help to avoid unnecessary delays, interest charges or complications later in the process.