Probate - Hatfield, Hertfordshire
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is perhaps the biggest challenge anyone can face during their lifetime. Bereavement can take an enormous toll on a person’s physical and mental health, and can be further complicated with issues like probate. Area cover Hatfield, Hertfordshire.
Probate is the legal term used in reference to the process of confirming the legality of a deceased individual’s Will. Most Wills are not contested by the parties named therein, allowing for the deceased’s estate to be distributed as smoothly and painless as possible. However, where a named party is not satisfied with the content of a will or any of the terms in the will are ambiguous, disputes can occur.
At K&K Solicitors, we can provide the help and support you need to negotiate one of life’s most challenging times. However simple or complex the case, our experienced probate lawyers will help ensure a smooth, stress-free, and amicable outcome.
At K&K Solicitors we can help you in the following ways:
Valuing the assets of the Estate - valuing assets in accordance with the Inheritance Tax Act 1984, and claiming all reliefs (spouse exemption, charitable gifts, etc.) and transferable nil rate band if applicable.
Obtaining a Grant of Probate - assisting the executors or administrators to obtain the permit required to deal with the deceased's estate.
Identifying the assets and liabilities of the Estate - this can include bank accounts, credit cards, pensions, properties, shareholdings, insurances, utilities, taxes, and other debts.
Completing the forms PA1 and IHT forms - this will include either IHT400 or IHT205 depending on the size and type of the estate.
Estate accounts preparation - drawing up financial statements showing estate income and outgoings, ensuring that assets are distributed in accordance with the will (or as specified by law if no will is left).
Disputes in an estate
A claim may be filed against a deceased individual’s estate for a variety of reasons, including the following:
Challenging the Will
There are several grounds upon which it may be possible to challenge the validity of a Will. The main justification for challenging a Will is that the deceased did not have the mental capacity to draft a Will, or that they were under undue influence at the time the Will was made.
Challenges may also be made on the grounds that the deceased did not approve or have knowledge of the content of the Will, or that the formalities of the Wills Act 1837 were not observed when the Will was written.
Claims under the Inheritance Act 1975
Whether the deceased has made a Will or dies intestate, the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 allows certain persons to make a claim for 'reasonable financial provision' out of the estate.
The categories of the individuals who may be entitled to make such a claim include the spouses, former spouses, co-habitants, children of the deceased and any other person who was maintained by the deceased.
Even where there is no dispute over who is entitled to benefit from an estate, there may be disagreement about how the estate is managed. In these circumstances, the help and support of an experienced probate solicitor could prove invaluable. Ultimately you may be able to save money and time if you seek the services of one of our experienced probate lawyers.
What to do next
Call us for free
advice
During these difficult and upsetting times, we can provide you with an obligation-free consultation to discuss your case at no cost. Call K&K Solicitors anytime, or email a member of our team and we will call you back as soon as possible.
Book a free advisory
meeting
At K&K Solicitors, our specialist probate team is sympathetic and understanding to the circumstances of those facing life’s biggest challenges. We would be delighted to provide you with a free introductory advisory meeting, in order to discuss the appropriate course of action.
Receive a fixed price for our complete administration service
We take pride in offering every client a clear, simple quotation for the entirety of the service we provide. Irrespective of how much time and work we invest in your case, you will always know the full price payable.
You can download our Free Probate Guide by clicking on this link Probate Guide
For an accurate, personalised quotation, please telephone us direct on 01707 244442, or fill in the form opposite.
From the moment you make contact with us, we will agree the method of contact that suits you to ensure that your interests are best served.
To make an enquiry, please contact us on 01707 244442 or by email to contact@kandksolicitors.co.uk