Grant of Probate Solicitors

When someone close to you dies, dealing with the estate can feel overwhelming – especially when you are told that you need a Grant of Probate before anything can be released. At Hibberts, our experienced probate solicitors support executors and families across Cheshire and the surrounding areas, providing clear advice, practical support, and straightforward fees.

Whether you simply want help with the probate application or you would like us to handle the full estate administration, we are here to guide you every step of the way as part of our probate services.

What is a Grant of Probate?

A Grant of Probate is an official document issued by the Probate Registry. It confirms that the will is valid and that the executors named in the will have the legal authority to deal with the estate.

Many organisations require a Grant of Probate before they release money, close accounts, or allow a property to be sold or transferred. Without it, executors may not be able to carry out their duties.

When is a Grant of Probate Required?

You will usually need a Grant of Probate when:

• the person who has died owned property in their sole name
• sole bank or investment accounts exceed the provider’s threshold
• the estate includes more complex assets, such as shares, business interests or overseas property
• a bank, building society or other organisation specifically requests it

Each financial institution sets its own limits, so in some smaller estates probate may not be necessary. We can review the assets involved and confirm whether a Grant of Probate is required in your situation.

When Might Probate Not Be Needed?

A Grant of Probate is not always required. For example:

• if most assets were jointly owned and pass automatically to the surviving joint owner
• if the value of accounts held in the deceased’s sole name is below the institution’s release threshold
• if assets are held in a pension or life policy written in trust

As part of our initial advice, we will look at the estate and let you know whether probate is needed, potentially saving time and unnecessary cost.

What Does an Executor Have to Do?

Being an executor carries important legal responsibilities. These often include:

• locating the original will and identifying who inherits
• valuing all assets and debts in the estate
• completing inheritance tax and other tax returns
• applying for the Grant of Probate
• collecting in funds and closing accounts
• selling or transferring any property
• paying debts, expenses and legacies
• producing estate accounts and distributing the remainder of the estate

Executors can be personally liable for mistakes, which is why many people choose to instruct a solicitor to support them through the process. Our executor support and guidance service is designed to help you carry out your duties with confidence.

How Hibberts Can Help

Our probate solicitors assist executors and families with:

• confirming whether probate is needed
• reviewing the will and advising on practical issues
• contacting banks, investment providers and other organisations
• valuing the estate and preparing all required tax forms
• completing and submitting the probate application
• obtaining the Grant of Probate on your behalf
• collecting in assets and handling property matters
• preparing clear, accurate estate accounts

You can choose the level of support you need. We offer help with the probate application alone, or a full estate administration service where we handle everything on your behalf.

How Long Does Probate Take?

Timescales vary depending on the estate and on how quickly organisations respond. Delays may occur where:

• there are many assets to identify
• property needs to be sold
• tax issues arise
• disputes or disagreements occur between those involved

Straightforward estates often take several months from the probate application to final distribution, while more complex cases can take longer. We will give you realistic timescales at the outset and keep you updated throughout. For a more detailed overview of each stage, you can also read our Probate Process Explained page.

Grant of Probate Costs and Fees

We understand that costs are an important consideration at a difficult time. At Hibberts, we aim to be clear and transparent.

Depending on your needs, we can usually offer:

• a fixed fee or clear estimate for preparing and submitting the probate application
• a separate fee structure for full estate administration if you would like us to handle everything

We will explain our fees at the start, confirm them in writing, and let you know promptly if anything changes.

You can also view further information about our Wills, Trusts & Probate fees on our website or speak to us directly for a personalised quote.

Why Choose Hibberts for Probate?

• Experienced probate solicitors handling estates of all sizes
• Offices across Cheshire including Nantwich, Crewe, Tarporley and Whitchurch
• Clear, practical advice without unnecessary jargon
• Supportive, friendly service when you need it most
• Flexible support options depending on your needs

Get Help With a Grant of Probate

If you have been told you need a Grant of Probate, or you are unsure what to do next after a bereavement, our team is here to help. If you are deciding whether to manage things yourself or use a solicitor, you may also find our DIY vs Professional Probate page helpful.

Contact our Wills, Trusts & Probate team by phone or complete our online enquiry form and we will get back to you promptly.

FAQs

Do I need a solicitor for probate?
You do not have to use a solicitor, but many executors choose to because the process can be time-consuming and mistakes can be costly. We can help with just the application or handle the full administration.

What if there is no will?
If there is no will, you usually apply for Letters of Administration instead of a Grant of Probate. We have a separate page explaining the process and can advise you on what to do.

Can there be more than one executor?
Yes. A will can appoint multiple executors. We can advise co-executors on how to work together and what to do if disagreements arise.

What if a dispute arises during probate?
If beneficiaries or executors disagree, our contentious probate team can help resolve the issue and advise you on your options.