Five reasons probate can be a nightmare…

…and how good lawyers can help smooth the process.

The experience of dealing with the estate of a lost loved one has been described in a recent article as “an unholy, complicated, not joined-up mess.” But what is it about probate that makes it such a confusing and stressful process? 

Here are five reasons why the probate process can be a nightmare for “DIY” probate applications:

Terrible timing
If you are dealing with probate, chances are you have recently lost someone close to you. You may be grieving, emotionally exhausted, and facing a legal process you have never encountered before. Managing detailed paperwork and strict deadlines at such a difficult time can feel overwhelming.

Burdensome responsibilities
Being appointed as an executor is a privileged position which comes with important duties. Executors must identify and value assets, settle debts, deal with inheritance tax, and ensure the estate is distributed correctly. Mistakes can lead to personal liability which makes the weight of responsibility heavier to carry: especially when there are personal relationships or valuable assets at stake. 

Administrative headache
Probate often involves many forms, valuations and correspondence with banks and institutions. The process can be time-consuming when keeping accurate records is key and often this is the last thing on your mind. 

Family tensions
Even close families can experience disagreements when emotions are high and money is involved. Probate disputes can strain relationships and slow everything down. Making sure that you remain neutral and avoid positions of conflict can be a difficult ask.

Complex legal rules
Tax legislation, deadlines, and reporting requirements are not always straightforward, particularly for larger or more complicated estates. 

Having good professional advisors on side can ease this burden by handling the paperwork and guiding executors through their duties and the deadlines they need to meet. 

At SE Solicitors our trusted probate lawyers maintain an overview of the entire process so that you and your family have the time and space to focus on what really matters. If you have been appointed an executor in a Will or need to deal with the estate of a loved one why not get in touch and see how we can help?

‘Probate is an unholy mess. It’s lucky my brother and I were close’

https://www.thetimes.com/money/family-finances/article/probate-is-an-unholy-mess-its-lucky-my-brother-and-i-were-close-fr0p08r8j?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqe-TNGGUQ73rwzZA_9x_3pUtYyVTWzxMrgSfi8dQ6UE-PwYQ5QOArNS&gaa_ts=69734c54&gaa_sig=ip1rVcdt0DD-IofIMqY2wDX4T5WR6BheQuLWKSZgKhFb2W3jVvQasZ0Jua6vGn4djE_C2zRQelgQVXAXQDIkxQ%3d%3d