Probate

After losing someone close to you, the responsibility of dealing with their affairs can be a daunting one. Whether there is a Will or not, our Probate Solicitors can guide you through the process involved in administering your loved one’s estate. Our experienced team will help you to carry out your obligations as efficiently as possible. To find out how we can assist, please get in touch.

What Are the Responsibilities of the Personal Representative?

The personal representative is either the Executor named in the Will or, where there is no Will, the Administrator appointed by a court under the Succession Act 1965 (this is usually the nearest next of kin). This person, or people, are responsible for administering the deceased’s estate, which includes the following tasks:

• Gathering and protecting all the deceased’s assets, including their property, money and possessions, and determining the total value of the estate.
• Paying any debts owed by the deceased and collecting any money due to them.
• Paying the funeral costs.
• Distributing the deceased’s assets to the beneficiaries.

These responsibilities must be carried out correctly; otherwise, you could be held liable. Most Executors and Administrators, therefore, seek help from a specialist Wills & Probate Lawyer to ensure they carry out their legal duties properly.

What is a Grant of Probate and Grant of Administration?

A Grant of Probate is a legal document that permits you to administer the deceased’s estate. In most cases, Executors will need to apply to the Probate Office to obtain a Grant before they can begin to administer the estate. If you are appointed as Administrator, you must also apply for the power to deal with the estate – known as a Grant of Letters of Administration.

Applying for a Grant of Probate or Grant of Administration requires the submission of several forms, which will be examined thoroughly by the Probate Office. Our team will take time and care when preparing your application to ensure there are no issues or delays. 

How Can Our Probate Lawyers Help You?

Our dedicated Probate practitioners can help you at all stages, including identifying the nature and location of assets, applying for a Grant of Probate/Administration and distributing the estate following the instructions in the Will or the Rules of Intestacy. We have experience dealing with estates of all sizes and can help you to quickly and effectively resolve any legal issues that arise – such as an insolvent estate or concerns over the validity of the Will.

Contact our Probate Solicitors in Carrigart and Letterkenny, Co. Donegal

There are many steps involved in dealing with a loved one’s affairs after they have died. We understand how overwhelming it can feel to be faced with this responsibility. We are here to help. Our Probate Lawyers provide a complete, effective and sensitive service, and aim to make the process as easy for you as possible. For assistance with administering an estate, or with any other Wills & Probate matter, call our team on 0749890190 or complete our online contact form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

*In contentious business, a Solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage or proportion of any award or settlement, nor is it our practice to do so.