Executor Support & Guidance Solicitors

Being named as an executor in a will is an important responsibility. You are trusted to deal with everything the person who has died has left behind – from property and money to debts, tax and paperwork. It can feel daunting, especially if you have never been involved in an estate before.

At Hibberts, our experienced probate solicitors provide clear, practical support for executors across Cheshire and the surrounding areas. Whether you want one-off advice, help with the probate application, or a full estate administration service, we are here to guide you through each step.

What Does an Executor Do?

An executor is the person appointed in a will to deal with the estate of the person who has died. Their duties typically include:

• locating the original will and confirming who inherits
• identifying and valuing all assets and debts
• ensuring property is insured and secure
• dealing with banks, building societies and investment providers
• completing any inheritance tax and other tax returns
• applying for the Grant of Probate if required
• collecting in funds and closing accounts
• selling or transferring property and other assets
• paying funeral costs, debts and expenses
• preparing estate accounts
• distributing the estate to beneficiaries

Executors have a legal duty to act in the best interests of the estate and the beneficiaries. Mistakes can lead to delays, disputes or even personal liability, which is why many executors choose to work with a solicitor.

The Risks of Acting as an Executor Alone

Acting as an executor without professional advice can be time-consuming and stressful. Common risks include:

• overlooking assets or debts
• missing tax deadlines or underpaying tax
• distributing the estate too early
• failing to protect property or investments
• not keeping proper records or accounts
• getting caught in the middle of beneficiary disputes

Executors can sometimes be held personally responsible if things go wrong. Our role is to reduce that risk by making sure everything is dealt with correctly and in line with the law.

How Hibberts Can Support Executors

We tailor our support to the level of help you need. Our executor services include:

• Initial advice and guidance: explaining your duties, answering your questions and outlining the steps involved.
• Probate application support: preparing and submitting the application for the Grant of Probate on your behalf, and guiding you through the stages outlined in our Probate Process Explained page.
• Valuation and information gathering: contacting banks, investment providers and others to establish the value of the estate.
• Tax and HMRC paperwork: completing inheritance tax forms and other returns where required.
• Full estate administration: collecting in assets, paying debts, dealing with property and preparing estate accounts.
• Advice on complex issues: such as business assets, trusts, foreign assets or potential claims against the estate.

You remain in control as executor, but with the reassurance of having an experienced probate team to support you.

Full Administration Service vs Executor Support Only

Some executors want us to handle everything from start to finish. Others are comfortable dealing with certain tasks themselves but want help with specific parts of the process.

We offer two broad approaches:

• Executor support only: we provide advice and help with key stages – for example, preparing the probate application and tax forms – while you deal with day-to-day administration.
• Full estate administration: we manage the entire process on your behalf, from gathering information to distributing the estate and preparing final accounts.

We will discuss your preferences at the outset and agree a level of involvement that suits you. If you are still deciding how much to do yourself, our DIY vs Professional Probate page sets out the pros and cons of each approach.

Executor Support Costs and Fees

We know that costs are an important consideration, especially at a difficult time. At Hibberts, we aim to be open and transparent about our fees.

Depending on the level of support you require, we can usually offer:

• a clear estimate or fixed fee for help with the probate application and key paperwork
• a separately agreed fee structure for full estate administration, based on the complexity and value of the estate

We will explain our fees clearly at the start, confirm them in writing, and keep you updated throughout. You can also view information about our Wills, Trusts & Probate costs on our website or contact us for a personalised quote.

Why Choose Hibberts to Support You as an Executor?

• Experienced probate solicitors dealing with estates of all sizes and complexity
• Local offices across Cheshire, including Nantwich, Crewe, Tarporley and Whitchurch
• Clear, practical advice in plain English
• Supportive, approachable team at what can be a difficult time
• Flexible options so you can decide how much you want to do yourself

Get Help as an Executor

If you have been named as an executor and are unsure where to start, or you are part-way through the process and need support, our probate team can help.

Contact Hibberts today by phone or complete our online enquiry form and we will get back to you promptly.

FAQs

Do I have to act as an executor?
No. If you do not feel able to act, you may be able to renounce your role or have someone else appointed in your place. We can advise you on your options.

Can I get help part-way through an estate?
Yes. If you have started dealing with the estate but now feel out of your depth, we can step in and support you with the remaining steps.

Can there be more than one executor?
Yes. A will can name more than one executor. We can help co-executors work together and clarify how decisions should be made.

What if beneficiaries disagree with my decisions?
Executors can sometimes find themselves caught in the middle of disputes. Our contentious probate team can advise you on your position and how best to handle disagreements.