Probate Solicitors in the UK

When someone dies, their estate has to be collected in, debts and taxes paid, and what is left passed to the right people. Probate solicitors help executors and families through this process. They can do as much or as little of the work as you need.

378 firms list probate work in United Kingdom.

Probate Solicitors by city

What probate involves

  • Finding the will (if there is one) and valuing the estate.
  • Reporting the estate to HMRC and paying any inheritance tax.
  • Applying for a grant of probate (if there is a will) or letters of administration (if there is not).
  • Collecting money from banks and pensions, selling or transferring property, and paying debts.
  • Preparing estate accounts and distributing the estate to beneficiaries.

Do you need a solicitor?

You can apply for probate yourself, and simple estates are often handled by family members. A solicitor is worth considering if the estate includes property or investments, inheritance tax is payable, there is a business or overseas assets, the will is unclear, or family members disagree. Executors can be personally liable for mistakes, so getting advice can protect you.

How probate solicitors charge

Fees may be hourly, fixed for the probate application only, or (less often now) a percentage of the estate's value. SRA-regulated firms must publish price information for uncontested probate, so you can compare. Legal fees are normally paid from the estate, not by the executor personally.

Questions to ask a probate solicitor

  • Can you handle just the court application, or do you only take on the whole estate?
  • How will you charge: hourly, fixed fee or a percentage of the estate?
  • How long before beneficiaries are likely to receive anything?
  • What should I do now to protect the property and accounts?

Frequently asked questions

How long does probate take?

Getting the grant can take several weeks to a few months after the application is submitted. Fully administering an estate commonly takes 9 to 12 months, or longer if property must be sold.

Is probate always needed?

Not always. Small estates, or assets held jointly that pass automatically to the survivor, may not need a grant. Each bank or organisation sets its own limit.

Can I challenge a will?

Yes, in some circumstances, for example if you were financially dependent on the person who died, or you believe the will is invalid. Strict time limits apply, so take advice quickly.

Helpful guides

UK · Wills & probate Probate explained: what to do when someone dies What probate is, when you need it, the steps an executor takes, inheritance tax basics and when to get help from a solicitor. 8 min read UK · Wills & probate Making a will: what you need to know Why you need a will, how to make it legally valid, what happens if you die without one, and when to update it. 7 min read UK · Choosing a solicitor Solicitor fees explained: fixed fees, hourly rates and no win, no fee How solicitors charge, what affects the price, what disbursements are, and how to keep costs under control. 7 min read