Probate Lawyer Near Me

If you are searching for a ‘Probate lawyer near me’, chances are you have a probate matter in respect of which you need legal advice. At Birch & Co., we understand that dealing with probate can be overwhelming. That’s why we have a team of expert probate lawyers dedicated to assisting clients in Newcastle-Upon-Tyne and around the UK with all matters of estate administration. We provide first-class legal advice with a human touch, offering the support and guidance you need to navigate the probate process.

Reach out to Birch & Co’s specialist and supportive team today. Call us on 0191 284 5030 or complete a Free Online Enquiry now to get a bespoke fixed price estimate.

“the stress out of situations.” (Ms A Scott)

What Is Probate?

Probate is the right to administer the estate of a deceased person.

The deceased may have nominated the people they wish to administer their estate in their Will. Those individuals are known as ‘executors’. The executors’ tasks might include selling the deceased’s home, securing the release of funds held in their bank and building society accounts, clearing any debts and liabilities, and distributing the estate between the named beneficiaries.

Executors usually need to obtain a ‘Grant of Probate’ before they begin dealing with the estate’s assets. The Grant of Probate proves to third parties, such as the deceased’s bank or building society, that the executor is legally entitled to deal with the estate.

If the deceased dies intestate, which means that they did not leave a Will, their estate will be dealt with by individuals known as ‘administrators’. The deceased’s family members have the right to apply to act as administrator in a specific order, starting with the spouse or civil partner. Administrators do not need a ‘Grant of Probate’ to carry out their role. Instead, they apply for ‘Letters of Administration’.

What Should I Look For When Choosing A Probate Lawyer Near Me?

When you enter ‘probate lawyer near me’ into a search engine, the results will likely be vast. With so much choice, it can be hard to know where to start. Given the sensitive nature of probate matters, choosing a solicitor who not only has the relevant expertise and experience, but with whom you feel comfortable, is essential. Factors to consider include the following:

• Does the firm possess the relevant expertise?

Probate law is complex, so choosing a firm with expertise and experience in the field is vital. At Birch & Co., we have been assisting clients with all matters relating to estate administration, including probate, for decades. With our intricate knowledge of the law, and vast experience of the relevant processes, we are ideally placed to guide and support you through the procedures and ensure your matter proceeds smoothly and swiftly.

• Will I get on with my solicitor?

Most people facing a probate issue are going through a difficult time in their lives. Accordingly, they need not only first-class legal advice, but also a human touch. “Friendly’, ‘helpful’ and ‘not in any way intimidating’ are just a few words used by clients to describe our solicitors. We pride ourselves on taking the time to really get to know our clients, lessening the burden of the probate process, and putting them at ease.

• How will I be charged?

Understandably, legal fees can be a concern for many clients. At Birch & Co., our firm policy is to provide exceptional legal support at extremely competitive rates. Your matter will be dealt with by a highly qualified solicitor with vast experience in probate matters, who will be able to process the matter quickly and cost-efficiently. That solicitor will be supported by more junior staff where possible, thereby reducing your costs.

Our charges will be based on the complexity of the estate and the issues that need resolving. Your solicitor will explain how we charge at the outset of your matter, and keep you updated on our fees as it progresses, providing regular quotes, updates and breakdowns.

Do I Need A Probate Lawyer Near Me?

Using a solicitor to assist you with probate is not a legal requirement. However, given the significant responsibilities placed on executors and administrators, the time-consuming nature of the roles, and the complexities of probate law, most people choose to seek specialist support when navigating the probate processes.

Where Can I Find A Probate Lawyer Near Me?

Our probate solicitors are based in Gosforth, Newcastle. While we pride ourselves on our close ties to the local area and its community, we also frequently assist clients around the UK with probate matters. To learn more about how we can help, you can make an appointment to meet with one of our probate solicitors face-to-face, phone us, send an email, or complete our online enquiry form.