Probate is the legal process of administering the estate of someone who has passed away. It involves obtaining a Grant of Probate, which gives the executor named in the will the authority to gather the deceased’s assets, pay off any debts and distribute the remaining estate to the beneficiaries.

If there is no will, a similar process called obtaining Letters of Administration applies.

In Northern Ireland, probate is required when the deceased owned significant assets such as property, savings or shares. For example, it may be necessary to sell a family home, access bank accounts with substantial balances or transfer ownership of investments.

Unlike other parts of the UK or ROI, probate in Northern Ireland is handled by the Probate Office and follows specific regional laws and guidelines. This makes having an experienced local solicitor especially valuable.

Handling probate can be challenging, particularly with the specific legal requirements here in Northern Ireland. Our specialist solicitors offer expert guidance to ensure the process is handled efficiently to give you peace of mind during this difficult time.

Applying for Probate or Letters of Administration
We assist with obtaining a Grant of Probate if there is a valid will, or Letters of Administration when there is no will. By handling the paperwork and communicating directly with the Probate Office, we ensure your application is accurate and processed quickly, avoiding unnecessary delays.

Estate Valuation and Asset Management
Our solicitors provide a complete valuation of the estate, covering property, bank accounts, investments and personal belongings. We also manage assets during the probate process, ensuring they are protected and in line with legal requirements in Northern Ireland.

Inheritance Tax Advice and Filing
Inheritance tax laws in Northern Ireland can be complex, but our solicitors simplify the process. We calculate any tax owed, identify applicable exemptions or reliefs and file the necessary documents with HMRC, helping beneficiaries minimise tax burdens.

Administering the Estate
We handle every step of estate administration, from gathering assets and paying debts to distributing the estate to beneficiaries. Our solicitors ensure this process is efficient, transparent, and in line with the will or intestacy rules, providing regular updates throughout.

Resolving Contentious Probate Issues
When disputes arise over wills, inheritance, or estate management, our experienced solicitors are here to help. We work to resolve contentious issues effectively through negotiation or legal action, always prioritising your interests and striving for a fair resolution.

Our probate solicitors have extensive experience handling estates of all sizes and complexities across Northern Ireland. We understand how difficult it is to deal with legal matters after losing a loved one, which is why we provide compassionate, expert support every step of the way. Our focus is on easing your burden and handling the process smoothly.