Executing a Will

Dealing with your grief over the loss of a loved one, trying to arrange funeral plans and having to start the duties of an executor can be emotional and overwhelming. Hannah Solicitors are here to take some of the stress away.

Executing a Will

How do I execute someone’s will?

Your main duties as an executor are to act according to the deceased’s will, and ensuring their wishes are carried out. Depending on the value of their estate, you may need to apply for a grant of probate, which gives you the authority to administer the estate.

Why is it better to have legal representation?

There are a number of reasons why working with a solicitor is beneficial if you are executing someone’s will. These include but are not limited to:

  • Time-efficient: a solicitor’s knowledge and experience means they’ll be able to complete tasks quickly and easily, which will keep the time spent on the administrative side to a minimum

  • Responsibility: you will be held personally liable for any mistakes made during the administration process – the assistance of a solicitor means any potential mistakes will be spotted and rectified in good time

  • Neutral party: it is not unusual for family disputes to occur during the distribution of an estate, which can be overwhelming and stress-inducing. A solicitor is an independent and neutral party, meaning if the estate is contested, the solicitor remains unbiased and is able to distribute the estate as planned

What tasks will a solicitor be able to help me with?

A solicitor will be able to assist you in:

  • Applying for a grant of probate

  • Collecting assets

  • Communicating with the beneficiaries

  • Distributing the estate

  • Considering and settling any tax the estate is liable for

How do I know if probate is needed?

As a general rule of thumb, if an estate is considered small, which is the value of £5,000 and below, probate will not be necessary. There are, of course, exceptions to this rule, and there can be other circumstances in which probate is not needed. For more information, read our probate information guide.

Is legal assistance funded by the estate?

Any expenses can be reimbursed from the estate. For example, you may claim reimbursement for any travel or postage costs. If you have assistance from a solicitor, the professional fees are payable from the estate.