Applying for Probate

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What do I do when someone dies?

The loss of a friend or loved one can be a very stressful time with many people needing to be notified in the first few days. In addition to the immediate tasks you need to attend to, such as arranging the funeral, there is a lot of paperwork to be dealt with and official documents which need to be completed over the next few weeks.

How we can help you?

One of the duties you have to undertake is applying for Probate, even if the estate is under the limit. This can often be a complex and extremely time consuming process and needs attending to at a time when you may not feel able to perform this task.

Rugby Wills and Legal Services Ltd., in association with IWC Probate Services, are experts in dealing with all aspects of Probate. Our specialist Probate Team have a sympathetic and patient approach when dealing with bereaved relatives and will happily arrange a visit to discuss your requirements in the comfort of your own home.

Unlike Solicitors and many other Legal companies who often charge an hourly rate, IWC  provide a Fixed Fee Probate Service which is quoted in advance of any work being undertaken. This will be a considerable saving on the fees you would typically need to pay a high street Bank or Solicitor.

Once you have agreed to use our Probate service, you will be appointed your own Case Handler who will personally, look after your case and who will be your point of contact throughout the Probate. This process must be executed within two years of death and needs to be with the agreement of all beneficiaries.

Who do you notify first?

In the first five days it is important that you do the following:

• Notify the deceased’s family Doctor.
• Contact a Funeral Director to commence funeral arrangements. You will also need to check any Will for any special requests or prepaid Funeral arrangements which may have already been made.
• Register the death at The Registry Office. Ideally get at least 10 copies of the death certificate.
• Advise any departments who may have been making payments to the deceased, such as Tax Credits, benefits, pensions etc.

As soon as possible you should:

• Contact the Executors of any Will to enable them to start the process of obtaining Probate.
• If there is no Will then you should decide who will apply to sort out the deceased’s affairs and apply for Letters of Administration.

Want to know how we can help you?

• Ask us for our Executor Checklist