Helen Vorley of Astle Paterson’s Wills & Probate Department notes that it is entirely possible to apply for probate and deal with an estate, without seeing a lawyer, but it’s not without risks as warned by legal group, Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE). Probate solicitors possess expert knowledge in navigating the complex probate process, providing essential guidance to executors and beneficiaries.
Many professionally drafted wills contain trusts to save tax, to avoid those who inherit paying care fees and to reduce the likelihood of potential disputes. SFE members have noticed an increase in ‘DIYers’ returning to them to seek advice when they have made a mistake or find the paperwork too tricky. Mrs A’s will had included a tax saving trust, but when her husband administered the estate, he paid the whole estate to himself. The solicitor was thankfully able to sort out the matter and avoid future complications occurring when Mr A eventually dies. In Mr G’s case, he sold some shares that had made a gain during the administration of his late sister’s estate and had to pay tax. If he had transferred the shares to himself first, before selling them, he could have avoided the tax. One crucial aspect the article emphasizes is how probate solicitors can ease the burden on grieving families during a challenging time.
SFE member, Helen Vorley of Astle Paterson Solicitors of Burton upon Trent said ‘People aren’t always aware of the complexities and assume probate work is straightforward. It is true that it can be, but it is just as true that sometimes it isn’t. In all but the most straightforward cases, it is important to seek timely specialist legal advice that can actually save you money and worry.’ It also touches upon the significance of hiring reputable probate solicitors to ensure the process runs smoothly and efficiently, minimizing delays and complications.
Many SFE members’ practices will offer to work in partnership with the deceased’s family to help and support them with the legal and technical work. As elder law specialists, members can even add value to their work, for example by identifying cases where money is owed to the estate for care funding, which should have been met by the NHS and assist in making a claim. Furthermore, it sheds light on the importance of open communication between clients and probate solicitors to address any concerns or questions throughout the probate proceedings.
Please contact Helen Vorley of our Wills & Probate department on 01283 531366 or by way of email to hvorley@astlepaterson.co.uk.
