Probate Solicitors Sittingbourne
Estate Administration – Probate Lawyers
When someone you love dies, it is a distressing time. If you are named the executor in the Will of someone who dies, you have additional responsibilities on top of dealing with your grief.
Probate Meaning
‘Probate’ is the name for this area of law, which involves gathering in all the deceased’s estates, settling debts, paying inheritance tax and distributing the assets. It is not always straightforward and can take time, but we will help you throughout the process so that you can be confident that you are carrying out your duties as an executor correctly. For trusted, compassionate wills and probate solicitors in Kent, contact Ratcliffes on 01795 477505.
Our probate solicitors have years of experience in administering estates and applying for probate. We will manage the process for you in a straight-forward, practical manner so you can concentrate on your family. From the initial probate application to the final transfer of assets, we’ll be by your side.
Letters of Administration
If the person who has died did not leave a valid will, or if no executors have been named, you may need to apply for letters of administration. If this is the case, our probate solicitors can assist you.
Will Disputes (Contested Probate)
Challenging the last wishes of a family member is an emotional decision. If you believe that the will may have been executed incorrectly, executed under undue influence or, in some circumstances has not made due provision for someone, you may feel that you wish to challenge its validity. For support or advice in contesting a will, contact Ratcliffes.
You may alternatively be unhappy about how an executor is administering probate on an estate – perhaps by exceeding their powers as an executor – we can also give advice and guidance with how to deal with this.
Contesting a Will
Contesting probate can be a very stressful decision to take, particularly when it involves family members at a time when you are grieving. We can help by advising you how to proceed and what you may or may not be able to do to resolve the matter.
We would normally initially try to resolve the matter by means of mediation and negotiation rather than starting formal litigation so that we can keep stress and costs to a minimum but if it becomes necessary to move to formal court proceedings we will guide you every step of the way. We also have an excellent team of barristers whom we work alongside. We have plenty of experience in contested probate cases winning cases for our clients both at County Court level and in the High Court of Justice.
For an experienced probate solicitor in Faversham, Sittingbourne or the surrounding areas, contact Ratcliffes today. And for additional information, including probate fees, call 01795 477505.
Click Here to see an Estimate of Prices
If you would like support in writing a will or estate planning, including setting up a family trust, our expert team of will writing solicitors can advise you.
Considering appointing a lasting power of attorney? Contact Ratcliffes, or visit our page for more information.