Probate and Estate Administration

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What is Probate?

To manage someone’s estate after they’ve died, you’ll usually need a legal document called a Grant of Representation (GOR). There are three main types:

Grant of Probate – when there’s a valid Will and named Executor
Grant of Letters of Administration with Will annexed – when there’s a Will but no Executor able or willing to act
Grant of Letters of Administration – when there’s no valid Will and the estate is dealt with under intestacy rules

In some cases, such as when assets are jointly owned or of low value, a GOR may not be needed.

How we can help

Everyone’s needs are different. You might:

Want to handle most of the process yourself, but need help applying for the Grant
Need support with inheritance tax (IHT) forms or asset valuations
Prefer to hand everything over to a professional team

We can tailor our support to suit you, from one-off advice to full estate administration, including:

Identifying and valuing assets
Completing inheritance tax, income tax, and capital gains tax returns
Placing statutory notices
Collecting and distributing the estate
Advising on when it’s safe to distribute
Liaising with our contentious probate team if disputes arise

Understanding Inheritance Tax

Not every estate is taxable but even non-taxable estates may require an IHT account. For example:

If the deceased had an interest in a Trust
If there are foreign assets
If lifetime gifts were made that need to be reported

The Residence Nil Rate Band, introduced in 2017, can reduce or eliminate IHT but it’s not automatic. It must be claimed through the correct paperwork.

We’ll help you understand what’s required and ensure nothing is missed.

Post death tax planning

There may still be opportunities to reduce tax after someone has died. We can advise on:

Deeds of Variation
Charitable giving to secure a reduced IHT rate
Other strategies to protect the estate and support Beneficiaries

Here when you need us

Whether you’re an Executor, Administrator, or Beneficiary, we’ll help you navigate the legal and financial responsibilities with confidence and compassion.

Why Choose Porter Dodson?

Recognised excellence – Ranked in both The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners for our expertise in private client services, including Wills, Trusts, and Probate.

Clear, compassionate advice – We speak your language, not legal jargon, and tailor our guidance to your personal circumstances.

Joined-up legal support – Our team works seamlessly across estate planning, tax, property, and disputes to protect your interests.

Trusted by generations – With deep roots in the community, we’ve supported families and business owners across the South West for decades.

We’re here to make sure your wishes are respected, whatever the future brings.

I instructed Ellice Pounder recently to write my Will. She was excellent, very professional and I was well advised throughout the process. I would highly recommend Ellice.

Beth

I experienced a very helpful, friendly and approachable service whilst accepting advice during the appointments I attended for the making of my Will.

Marion

I would like to repeat my thanks to you and Caitlin for all the work involved in setting up our Lifetime Settlement. The Trust Deed was clear and followed the expressed wishes we gave you. You kept us fully informed at all times and the preparation, completion and registration were carried out in a most professional way with minimum delay. I would not hesitate to recommend Porter Dodson to any family member or friend seeking legal advice on trusts and wills and other related legal matters.

Michael

I would like to say a special thank you to Rose who has always been very approachable and friendly, leaving me at ease whenever I have had a question.

Debbie