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.

Stephanie has always been polite, efficient, helpful and thorough in all my dealings with her. Her availability for phone calls has been very good and her advice is always thoughtful and found. She is a real asset to Porter Dodson.

Michael

I found all members of staff to be very professional, knowledgeable, open and I found it very easy to discuss my legal work with them in a calm manner.

Private Client

I wanted to pass on my thanks to Bryony Haslock for the kindness and help she gave my family whilst dealing with my grandmothers estate. It really does go a long way when having to deal with difficult matters.

Lucy

Very professional service from beginning to end. My husband and I felt very reassured that our wishes were met and our Wills have been written with the utmost care and consideration.

Private Client