If you’ve suffered a bereavement, it’s normal to find this time challenging and emotional. And at a time when you’re trying to make sense of what’s happened and adapt to life after a loved one has died, their possessions will probably be the last thing on your mind.
But if you’re the person that has the task of sorting through their property, money and other possessions, then you may need to go through a process known as probate. While sometimes a necessary step following a death, taking on probate yourself can add an extra layer of stress to an already challenging time in your life.
At Hughes Probate Services we not only offer practical guidance, but we promise to provide a listening ear and will hold your hand throughout every step of the probate process. As probate specialists we know how difficult life can be when a loved one has died, and that’s why we are here for you when you need that support most.
Who is responsible for applying for probate?
If you are named in a loved one’s will as an executor, you will be responsible for applying for probate. But only if it applies to your circumstances.
In cases where there isn’t a will, this responsibility will usually pass to the next of kin. This may be a parent, sibling, child or partner.
Does everyone need probate?
No probate will not apply to every estate. If the property and money in a person’s estate are jointly owned, they will pass to a spouse or civil partner and will not require probate. More complex estates will typically require probate to help distribute money and property to the people named in the will, also known as beneficiaries. It will also help determine any debts or taxes owed by the deceased.
How long does probate take?
Typically, applying for and receiving a grant of probate can take up to 16 weeks. But it can be longer if additional information is requested. Once you have received the grant of probate, the time it will take to complete the probate process will depend on the estate.
Straightforward estates will usually complete fairly quickly. But more complex estates that require the sale of property or multiple shares and investments can take a lot longer.
When should you seek probate advice?
We would always advise seeking probate advice as early as possible. Doing so can help alleviate some of the stress and emotion probate can cause when you are grieving. Before the process can begin, you will need to register the death.
It is also a good idea to find out if there is a will in place, as this will affect the process. Knowing if there is a will or not can help a probate specialist provide you with tailored advice.
Has your loved one recently died? Get in touch with Hughes Probate Services
If your loved one has recently died then get in touch with Hughes Probate Services. We will provide friendly and expert guidance to help you understand the probate process. Probate specialist Julie is also trained in grief counselling, so she can also offer you emotional support and a safe space to grieve at what is often a very emotional time.
At Hughes Probate Services we will be there with you through every stage of the process to explain what you need to do and help ensure the process is as quick and simple as possible. We are here for you, call Julie today.
