When someone close to you passes away, dealing with their estate can feel like stepping into a maze. You might find the meaning of terms like “probate” online, but the process behind it can be a real head-scratcher.
So, the big question is: do you really need a solicitor to handle probate? The short answer is NO—you don’t have to use one. But the longer answer? It’s usually a smart idea. Here’s why.
What Could Go Wrong If You DIY?
Let’s imagine you decide to handle probate yourself.
You miss a debt? If you distribute the estate before settling all liabilities, creditors could come knocking, and guess who’s responsible? That’s right—YOU!
You make a mistake with taxes? Inheritance tax calculations can be tricky, and errors can lead to fines. Even innocent mistakes don’t get much sympathy from HMRC.
The will is contested? What if someone says the will isn’t valid, or they feel left out and decide to challenge it? You’ll need legal expertise to handle that.
So How Can a Solicitor Help?
A solicitor is like a guide who helps you through this maze. Here’s how they make life easier:
They take the stress off your shoulders. Losing someone is already hard enough. Do you really want to spend your evenings figuring out legal jargon?
They ensure everything is done correctly. Solicitors know the rules, deadlines, and forms inside out. They won’t miss a step.
They handle disputes. If someone contests the will or there’s a family disagreement, having a solicitor on board can prevent things from turning ugly.
They save you time and, potentially, money. Yes, hiring a solicitor costs money. But it can actually save you from costly mistakes or fines down the line.
Peace of Mind Is Priceless
Probate is more than just paperwork. It’s about doing right by your loved one’s wishes while keeping everything above board legally and financially. Hiring a solicitor means you’re not taking on the stress and risk alone. So, while you technically can handle probate yourself without a solicitor, the real question is: Should you?
After all, when it comes to dealing with something as important as someone’s estate, it might be worth having an expert on your side.
Get expert guidance and ease the probate process, get in touch with a solicitor today for trusted support and peace of mind.