When someone dies, someone has to deal with their affairs. This is called “administering the estate”. This is done by the executor appointed in a will or by an administrator if there is no will. If you are appointed as an executor of a will or if you are the person entitled to take out a grant to administer an intestate estate (without a will) this can be a daunting experience. Administering an estate can be a complex, time consuming and stressful job depending on the extent of the deceased’s estate and the terms of any will or the impact of the intestacy rules if there is no will. This is all at what is usually an already stressful and emotional time. The average time it takes to administer an estate is around 12 months. In a very complex administration it could take years.
There are essentially two stages to the administration of an estate. The first stage involves exhibiting and proving the will by the executors and is commonly known as obtaining probate. The second stage is gathering and distributing the assets of the deceased’s estate and carrying out the instructions of the will or following the intestacy rules. We can help with either or both of these stages offering flexibility and support to the executor or administrator as they need to ensure that the administration of the estate is completed as efficiently as possible. We have the knowledge and experience to guide you sensitively through the process. We understand that in many circumstances this is a confusing and stressful time. We are here to help you by either guiding you in the right direction or to administer the whole estate on your behalf. Please contact us if you need help administering an estate.
