Estate Administration

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Martin Shepherd Solicitors Helping You Every Step of The Way

At Martin Shepherd Solicitors, we offer a professional and personal service, tailored to ease the burden of estate administration. Our team of solicitors understands the importance of handling estate administration with professionalism, confidentiality, and empathy.  We are committed to keeping you informed at every step of the process, ensuring transparency and clarity throughout.

Need help? We can advise you on estate administration at our Potters Bar, Hertford and Finchley offices.

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Expertise in Estate Administration

Estate administration can be complex, but with Martin Shepherd Solicitors, you are in capable hands. Our team of  solicitors can assist you with a range of actions, including:

  • Explaining the terms of the Will and the Rules of Intestacy
  • Corresponding with financial institutions and organisations
  • Identifying and valuing assets and liabilities
  • Notifying beneficiaries and managing their entitlements
  • Keeping personal representatives updated on progress
  • Managing statutory notices and claims against the estate
  • Assisting in obtaining a grant of probate or letters of administration, streamlining the legal processes involved.
  • Handling all communications and dealings with HM Revenue and Customs regarding inheritance tax and any other tax obligations related to the estate.
  • Preparing and completing all necessary documents and inheritance tax forms.

Visit us if you need assistance. Learn more about estate administration at our Hertford, Potters Bar and Finchley offices.

Martin Shepherd Solicitors Estate Administration Process

The process has several stages that ensure the efficient and lawful distribution of assets to beneficiaries:

  1. The first step involves officially registering the death with the relevant authorities. It is crucial to obtain the death certificate and notify the necessary parties.
  2. Executors may need to oversee funeral arrangements based on the deceased’s wishes or any pre-existing plans.
  3. Obtaining the Grant of Representation (Probate): This legal document grants authority to the executor(s) to administer the estate. It involves applying to the Probate Registry and providing relevant documentation.
  4.  Executors must accurately assess the estate’s value and calculate any Inheritance Tax due. This may involve valuing assets, applying exemptions and reliefs, and liaising with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
  5. Once the liability is determined, the executor(s) must arrange for the payment of any Inheritance Tax owed from the estate’s funds.
  6. The remaining money and belongings can be given to the people listed in the Will after debts and taxes are paid. If there is no Will, the assets will be divided based on the law. Executors must ensure distributions are made correctly and fairly.

Navigating these stages can be complex, with potential challenges and disputes along the way. Executors may benefit from legal guidance and support to navigate the process effectively and mitigate any issues that arise.

We are here to help you. We offer legal advice on estate administration at our Finchley, Hertford and Potters Bar offices.

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Contact Martin Shepherd Today

At Martin Shepherd Solicitors, we are committed to providing you with comprehensive support and peace of mind during the estate administration process. Contact us today to arrange a consultation. Debbie Gibbs dg@martinshepherd.co.uk  or Gareth Humberstone gh@martinshepherd.co.uk.

Estate administration involves managing the legal and financial affairs of a deceased person’s estate. It is important to ensure that the deceased’s wishes are carried out, debts are settled, and assets are distributed to beneficiaries in accordance with the law.

Estate administration typically involves executors named in the deceased’s will or administrators appointed by the court if there is no will. These individuals are responsible for overseeing the estate’s distribution and managing its affairs.

The estate administration process usually includes registering the death, obtaining a Grant of Representation (Probate), valuing the estate, paying any outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries. Each step requires careful attention to detail and adherence to legal requirements.

The duration of estate administration can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the estate, the presence of disputes, and the efficiency of the executor(s). Typically, the process can take several months to a year or more to complete.

Disputes or challenges during estate administration can arise for various reasons, such as disagreements among beneficiaries, contested wills, or claims against the estate. In such cases, legal assistance may be necessary to resolve conflicts and ensure a fair and lawful distribution of assets.

Inheritance tax is a crucial consideration in estate administration, as it may impact the value of the estate and the amount beneficiaries receive. Executors or administrators are responsible for calculating and paying any inheritance tax owed to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) from the estate’s funds.

Martin Shepherd Solicitors can provide expert legal guidance and support throughout the estate administration process. Our team of experienced solicitors can assist with tasks such as explaining the terms of the will, obtaining probate, liaising with financial institutions, managing tax obligations, and resolving disputes. We aim to alleviate the burden of estate administration and ensure a smooth and efficient process for our clients.

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The legal information on this website cannot be regarded as a definitive statement of the law or of the effect of the law, and does not comprise, and should not be relied on as giving, legal advice.

It has been prepared in good faith, but none of the individuals responsible for or involved in its preparation accept any legal responsibility or liability for anything done in reliance on it.

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Martin Shepherd Solicitors LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England & Wales, registration number OC356132, Potters Bar – Head Office, Maple House, High Street Potters Bar London EN6 5BS where a list of the members is kept.

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