Bereavement support
Support with probate, wills and lasting powers of attorney
Losing someone is overwhelming, and the legal and financial matters that follow can feel like too much. At Judge Law, we provide clear, practical guidance to help you take the next steps with confidence.
We take the time to explain what is needed now, what can wait, and what your options are. If probate is not needed, we will tell you.
01753 331 091Call us to speak to a member of our team. Advice delivered with care and respect.
What happens after someone dies?
After a death, the person responsible for the estate, known as the executor or administrator, must deal with several legal and financial matters. These may include:
- Registering the death
- Locating the Will
- Identifying assets and liabilities
- Contacting banks and financial institutions
- Paying debts and taxes
- Distributing the estate
Not every estate requires a Grant of Probate. One of the first things we do is assess whether probate is legally required in your circumstances. If probate is not necessary, we will tell you clearly and explain the next steps.
How we help
At Judge Law, we focus on clarity and respect.
We will:
- Explain the process in plain English
- Confirm whether probate is required
- Outline realistic timeframes
- Provide clear cost information
- Support you at a pace that feels manageable
Our role is to reduce uncertainty and give you structure during a difficult time.
Your Story Matters.
Probate and estate administration
Probate is the legal process that gives authority to deal with a deceased person’s estate.
We assist with:
- Applying for a Grant of Probate
- Applying for Letters of Administration where there is no Will
- Full estate administration
- Inheritance Tax reporting
- Collecting and distributing assets
- Managing property within the estate
- Resolving complications or disputes
We assist with identifying and valuing assets, calculating any Inheritance Tax due and advising on available reliefs. Where property forms part of the estate, we can support with its transfer or sale as required.
We provide realistic guidance on timescales and costs at the outset.
When there is no Will
If someone dies without a valid Will, their estate is distributed according to the rules of intestacy.
These rules determine who inherits and in what order. They do not always reflect what the deceased may have intended.
We can advise you on:
- Who is legally entitled to inherit
- Who can apply to administer the estate
- How assets should be distributed
- How to manage disagreements between family members
Clear advice at this stage can prevent avoidable conflict later.
Wills and future planning
A Will allows you to decide who inherits your assets and who will be responsible for administering your estate. If you have children under 18, it also allows you to appoint guardians. It is important to review your Will regularly to ensure it reflects your current circumstances.
Bereavement often prompts people to review their own arrangements.
We assist with:
- Drafting or updating a Will
- Mirror Wills for couples
- Estate planning where there are complex family structures
- Protecting property and vulnerable beneficiaries
Having a properly drafted Will provides certainty and reduces the burden on those you leave behind.
Lasting powers of attorney
A Lasting Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity.
We advise on:
- Property and Financial Affairs Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Health and Welfare Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Appointing appropriate attorneys
- Registration with the Office of the Public Guardian
Planning in advance can prevent significant difficulty for families in the future.
These documents allow you to appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you lose mental capacity, and to make your wishes clear in advance.
Do I need a solicitor for probate?
You are not legally required to use a solicitor. Some estates are straightforward and can be handled independently.
However, professional support can reduce delay, risk and stress, particularly where:
- The estate includes property
- There are multiple beneficiaries
- There is no Will
- There are business interests
- Inheritance Tax may be payable
- There is tension between family members
We offer an initial consultation, currently £180 + VAT, to assess your situation and outline the most appropriate route forward.
Request guidance after a bereavement
If you need guidance following a bereavement, we are here to help.
Complete the enquiry form and a member of our team will contact you.
Prefer to call?01753 331 091Speak to a member of our team. Advice delivered with care and respect.
FAQs
What is probate?
Probate is the legal process that confirms a person’s authority to deal with a deceased individual’s estate. It allows the executor named in a Will, or an administrator where there is no Will, to collect assets, settle debts and distribute the estate lawfully.
How long does probate take?
Timescales vary depending on the complexity of the estate. Straightforward cases may take several months. Estates involving property sales, tax matters or disputes can take longer. We provide realistic guidance once we understand your circumstances.
Do all estates require probate?
No. Some estates, particularly those with jointly owned assets or lower asset values, may not require a Grant of Probate. We can review the position and advise you.
What happens if there is no Will?
If someone dies without a valid Will, the estate is distributed under the rules of intestacy. These rules determine who inherits and in what proportion. We can guide you through the application process and distribution requirements.
How much does probate cost?
Costs depend on the size and complexity of the estate. During your initial consultation, we will outline likely costs and explain how fees are structured.
What is an executor responsible for?
Executors are responsible for identifying assets, settling debts and taxes, keeping proper records and distributing the estate correctly. This role carries legal responsibility and must be handled carefully.
Can probate be done without legal advice?
Yes, but errors can cause delay or financial risk. Many people choose legal support to ensure the estate is administered correctly and efficiently.
Should I update my Will after a bereavement?
Often yes. A bereavement may change your circumstances and planning priorities. Reviewing your Will ensures your intentions remain clear and legally valid.
