Probate

Probate solicitors in Cleveleys, Blackpool and the Fylde Coast. We handle estate administration, grants of probate and intestacy matters with clear advice.

Probate and Estate Administration Solicitors in Blackpool, Cleveleys and the Fylde Coast

After someone dies, their estate, which includes all their assets and possessions, needs to be managed. This involves distributing them as inheritance after paying off any liabilities and taxes.

At MJV Solicitors, our experienced private client solicitors assist executors and families with probate and estate administration across Blackpool and the Fylde Coast. We handle all aspects, from acquiring the grant of probate or letter of administration, to managing the legal, tax, and overall estate administration matters on your behalf. Whether the departed left a will or died intestate, we will help you ensure their wishes are followed. 

To speak with a member of our team about how we can help or to find out more about our services, complete our enquiry form or contact us by calling 01253 858231 or emailing us at info@mjvlaw.co.uk.

Obtaining the Grant of Probate or Letter of Administration

Probate is the legal process of dealing with a person’s estate after death, and the authority to deal with the estate is known as a grant of representation. If the deceased left a valid Will, the process is usually handled by the executor. In some cases, depending on the assets involved and the value of the estate, the executor may need to acquire a specific document, called a “Grant of Probate”, to sell certain assets like property or shares and distribute the estate. 

However, if the departed died intestate (without a valid Will), the estate management process is slightly different. In these circumstances, you will need to obtain a “letter of administration” to have the legal authority to manage the estate.

Not all estates require a grant. This depends on the nature and value of the assets involved.

Regardless of the size or complexity of the estate, our team of experienced probate solicitors provides a comprehensive probate service and can guide you through the process. We will explain the process clearly and can assist with grant of representation applications and handle the whole administration process for you if instructed to do so.

What Does Estate Administration Involve?

Estate administration typically involves various administrative tasks, which include:

  • identifying assets and debts,
  • valuing the estate,
  • dealing with inheritance tax reporting,
  • collecting funds,
  • paying liabilities, and
  • distributing the estate

Executors and Administrators

Executors and administrators have legal duties once they are granted legal authority. These duties arise automatically under law and can involve personal responsibility.

For more information, read our Executor Duties Guide.

How MJV Solicitors Can Help

At MJV Solicitors, our experienced probate team understands how difficult it can be to deal with the loss of a loved one, and how daunting it can feel to be appointed as an executor.

We can explain the probate process clearly, including applying for a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration, support executors with specific tasks, and assist with the administration process for you, ensuring it is administered correctly and efficiently. Whether the deceased left a Will or died intestate, we will help you navigate the process with clarity and care.

Trusted Local Estate Administration Solicitors

With offices in Blackpool and Thornton-Cleveleys, MJV Solicitors provides professional probate services throughout the Fylde Coast. We regularly assist clients based in Fleetwood, Thornton-Cleveleys, Bispham, Blackpool, Poulton-le-Fylde, Lytham St Annes and the surrounding areas.

If you would like clear, professional advice about obtaining a grant of representation or estate administration, contact our experienced probate solicitors in Blackpool and the Fylde Coast today.

Complete our enquiry form or contact us by calling 01253 858231 or emailing us at info@mjvlaw.co.uk

How Much Do Probate and Estate Administration Services Cost?

We understand that cost is often a concern when seeking legal advice. Our solicitors will always ensure that you are fully aware of any costs involved, so there are no surprises when our bill arrives. Our fees and any disbursements are usually paid from the estate and deducted prior to distribution.

You can find out more about our fees here: Probate price guide.

We also appreciate that our clients may not always be available to meet with us at our offices or during traditional office hours. That is why we can arrange to meet you at a time and place that suits you, wherever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Is probate always required?
No. Some estates can be distributed with without a grant, depending on asset values and how assets are held. For example, if the person who died jointly owned land, shares, money, or property as joint tenants, a Grant of Probate is not usually required, as those assets will normally pass automatically to the surviving joint owner or owners. A Grant of Probate may also not be necessary if the deceased only held savings, depending on the value of those savings and the requirements of the organisation holding them.
2How long does probate take?
Straightforward estates may take several months. More complex estates can take longer.
3What happens if there is no will?
If there is no will, the estate is dealt with under intestacy rules set out in legislation. The distribution of the estate will depend on whether the deceased was married or in a civil partnership, and whether they had children or other close relatives. For more information, please see our previous blog, ‘What Happens When Someone Dies Without a Will?’, If your loved one died without a Will, or if you are unsure whether a Grant of Probate is required, our probate team can assist and guide you through the process.
4Can a solicitor act for executors?
Yes. A solicitor can act for executors or administrators if instructed.

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