WHAT IS PROBATE?

Do You Need Probate?

Do You Need Probate?

Understanding the probate process can be complex. Here's everything you need to know — clearly explained.

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What Is Probate?

Probate is the legal process of confirming a Will, valuing an estate, settling liabilities, and distributing assets after someone passes away. It ensures everything is handled correctly and in line with the law.

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Types of Probate

There are two main types of probate applications: expected estates and unexpected estates. An expected estate is where everything passes to a surviving spouse, or where a single person's estate is below £325,000, or a couple's combined estate is below £650,000. Everything else is classed as an unexpected estate, which requires a full tax return even if no inheritance tax is due.

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Who Probate Is Ideal For?

Probate is required when someone owns assets in their sole name, such as property or savings. Executors, family members, and beneficiaries often need guidance navigating the process, especially when the estate may fall into the unexpected category.

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Why Probate Matters?

Applying correctly avoids delays, mistakes, and potential disputes. Determining whether probate is required can sometimes be unclear, so it's best to have a quick 20-minute call with us — we can confirm whether probate is needed and outline the next steps to ensure the estate is administered smoothly and lawfully.

UNDERSTANDING THE PROBATE PROCESS.

Watch this informative video to gain a clear understanding of the probate process, the legal responsibilities involved, and the steps required to administer an estate properly. Our experienced team explains how we manage documentation, liaise with relevant authorities, and handle every carefully to reduce stress and ensure a smooth, legally compliant outcome.

We are committed to guiding you through every stage with clarity, compassion, and professionalism. From initial consultation to final distribution of assets, our team ensures transparent communication, timely updates, and dependable legal support tailored to your specific circumstances and family needs.

MEMBERS OF THE SOCIETY OF WILL WRITERS (SOWW)

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20
Years Industry
Experience
7500+
Completed
Cases
£2 Million
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Per Case
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Advisors

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Our Accreditations

We are proud members of the Society of Will Writers and hold full accreditation as a code-compliant, safe-to-do-business-with estate planning practice.

Safe to do Business With - Code Compliant
Society of Will Writers - Fellow Member
Society of Will Writers and Estate Planning Practitioners
Safe to do Business With - Code Compliant
Society of Will Writers - Fellow Member
Society of Will Writers and Estate Planning Practitioners
Safe to do Business With - Code Compliant
Society of Will Writers - Fellow Member
Society of Will Writers and Estate Planning Practitioners
Safe to do Business With - Code Compliant
Society of Will Writers - Fellow Member
Society of Will Writers and Estate Planning Practitioners

WHAT OUR CLIENTS SAY…?

  • "Nick and Macenzie were brilliant from start to finish. They explained everything clearly and had our wills done within a few days."

    Sarah P. - Chelmsford

  • “Genuinely lovely people. It’s rare to find a company that’s both professional and friendly — I felt completely looked after the whole way through."

    David H. - Brentwood

  • "After my husband passed, I didn’t know where to begin. Macenzie took care of everything with such patience and kindness. He made a horrible time so much easier for me."

    Linda R. - Southend-on-Sea

  • "Fast, helpful, and easy to talk to. Everything was sorted with zero fuss."

    Tom B. - Colchester

  • "It felt personal, not like dealing with a big firm. They remembered details about my family and genuinely cared about getting it right."

    Michelle G. - Billericay

  • "Nick handled my late mum’s probate quickly and kept me informed at every stage. Couldn’t have asked for better service."

    Alan D. - Basildon

  • "We’d put off doing our wills for years because we thought it would be complicated. Essex Estate Planning made it simple and stress-free."

    Fiona M. - Maldon

  • "Top marks for communication. Every call was returned the same day, and we always knew what was happening next."

    Peter L. - Rayleigh

  • "Lovely team. They helped us protect our home for the kids and made sure everything was watertight legally."

    Karen T. - Wickford

  • "They treated us like people, not case numbers. I’d recommend them to anyone who wants straight answers and peace of mind"

    Steve J. - Clacton-on-Sea

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