Probate & Estate Administration Solicitors
For some, being the executor of a loved one’s estate is an honour. For others administering their estate while grieving their loss is overwhelming. Not only can this cause more stress and upset, but it can also lead to costly mistakes.
At Rothera Bray, our Probate and Administration solicitors can offer practical support and guidance. We can also take on the responsibility of administering the estate so you can process your loss.
What is probate?
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This involves:
- Identifying and valuing the deceased person’s assets and liabilities
- Paying off any debts and taxes owed by the estate
- Distributing the remaining assets to the beneficiaries named in the will
- If the deceased didn’t write a will, distributing those assets according to the rules of intestacy
- Carrying out the deceased person’s wishes as far as possible
Do I need a solicitor to apply for probate?
You do not legally need a wills and probate solicitor to apply for probate. In fact, many people deal with probate and the administration of estates on their own.
However, the process is often complex, time consuming and labour intensive. It can involve lots of complicated legal jargon, tax calculations and paperwork.
As an executor or administrator, you are legally responsible for administering an estate. As such, you will be liable for any mistakes or oversights.
When is it best to hire a probate solicitor?
Dealing with probate is often complicated and hard work. Especially if things do not go according to plan.
You may need a probate solicitor if:
- You do not have the time or expertise to deal with it yourself
- The will features foreign properties or assets
- Where income or capital gains need reporting
- The will features trusts
- If there is no will
- There is disagreement among the beneficiaries or potential beneficiaries
- There are legal challenges to the will or the distribution of the estate
- The estate is insolvent
- The estate is subject to inheritance tax
We can help make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
Why choose Rothera Bray probate and estate administration solicitors?
At Rothera Bray, we can provide as much or as little help as you need. We offer a range of services to help you through the process. These include:
- Advising you on your legal rights and responsibilities as an executor or beneficiary
- Assisting with the valuation and distribution of assets
- Preparing and submitting the necessary paperwork to the probate registry
- Dealing with any legal challenges to the will or the distribution of the estate
- Liaising with HM Revenue and Customs to make sure you meet all tax obligations
- Managing any disputes that arise between beneficiaries or potential beneficiaries
Our estate solicitors have vast experience in supporting executors and estate administrators. We understand how difficult it can be to administer an estate. Especially when you are grieving the loss of a loved one.
We can offer a high level of expertise when you need it and take some of the responsibility away from you.
Send us a message
“We’re upfront about costs – so there’s no hidden surprises”
Kirsten Wood
Head of Wills and Probate
FAQs
There are circumstances when you do not need to apply for probate; These are;
- When an estate is joint owned by a spouse or civil partner as the estate will pass onto the surviving partner
- If the value of the estate is less than £5,000
- If banks or building societies agree to release funds without a Grant of Probate
If you are not sure if you need to apply for probate or not, we can help.
Probate takes a minimum of 6 months. However, on average, probate process takes around a year to complete. This is from the date of death to the distribution of the estate.
Once the Grant of Probate has been issued, it usually takes around six weeks to distribute the estate.
You do not have to wait.
However, under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, claimants have 6 months to start a claim against the estate.
If someone tries to make a claim against an estate that has already been distributed, it could cause huge legal problems.
As a result, it is advisable to distribute the estate 6 months after the Grant of Probate has been issued. This does mean that the estate might be distributed for well over a year.
If the debts of an estate are more than the assets, the estate is insolvent. In this case, you must pay the debts in order of priority.
- Secured debts – these are debts that are secured against a property. If the estate does not have enough money to pay all debts, it must be shared between creditors in proportion to what is owed.
- Funeral expenses – These must be reasonable, considering the total amount of debt.
- Probate costs – These are the costs incurred when executing the will and administering the estate. These include reasonable legal fees.
- Preferential debts – If the deceased employed someone, their wages are a preferential debt.
- Interest – on unsecured loans and credit cards.
- Deferred debts – including debts to family and friends.
In the UK, more than 1 in 5 people die without making a will.
When someone dies without a will, their next of kin usually administer their state according to the rules of intestacy.
When there are not any relatives to administer the estate, the HM Treasury take over and any assets go to the Crown. This means the money goes to paying off the national debt or to charity.
Administering the estate of someone who has died without a will can be extremely complicated.
Our specialist estate administration solicitors can help.
stars
Posted 16 June 2026
Laura and Lisa were both exceptional in their professionalism, friendliness and attention to detail in selling my late father's property. The challenge of cross border communication was faced with a positive can do attitude, and nothing was too much trouble. I was kept informed every step of the way, and recommend them without question.
Alan Richmond
stars
Posted 16 June 2026
I had the pleasure of dealing with George Cokkinos. I can honestly say he made everything easier, everything was explained professionally and he made sure I had an understanding throughout. He was able to advise me around what I needed and much more. To say he’s one of the best, is an understatement. I will happily present people with his details if they’re in need. Thanks again George!
Philip Carson
stars
Posted 16 June 2026
We have used Rothera bray for numerous legal requirements (Wills/probate, trust advice & conveyancing) and have found them to highly professional, friendly approachable staff committed to resolving your legal issues, there are cheaper solicitors around, but I believe you get what you pay for. I would recommend them to anyone with legal requirements.
Chris Lever
stars
Posted 16 June 2026
My experience working with Rothera Bray was outstanding. Abbey and Luisa were professional, supportive, and compassionate throughout the entire process. They kept me informed every step of the way, explained everything clearly, and were always available to answer any questions I had. Abbey and Luisa worked tirelessly to help me achieve the outcome I wanted. Their expertise, attention to detail, and dedication gave me confidence during a difficult time, and I felt reassured knowing my case was in such capable hands. I would highly recommend Rothera Bray to anyone seeking legal advice or representation. Abbey and Luisa provided exceptional service, excellent communication, and genuine care for my situation. Their professionalism and commitment to securing the best possible outcome made all the difference, and I am extremely grateful for their support.
Ashkan
stars
Posted 16 June 2026
We dealt with Abbey and Luisa when selling our property in Leicestershire. Everything was handled efficiently, professionally and sympathetically, reducing our stress levels as much as possible. Thanks very much for walking us through this transaction. Much appreciated and highly recommended.
Colin Turner
stars
Posted 15 June 2026
I had an excellent experience with Rothera Bray, with Sally Simpson handling my conveyancing. The whole process was managed in a highly professional and efficient manner, with all enquiries dealt with promptly and often responded to the same day with clear explanations. Every inquiry or feedback raised with the seller’s solicitor was followed through thoroughly, ensuring all legal points were properly clarified and completed without any confusion or doubt. I was guided step by step throughout the process, which made everything smooth and stress-free. Overall, a very reliable, professional, and well-organised service which I would recommend.
Lanka
stars
Posted 13 June 2026
This firm is awesome, they delt with everything quickly, and professionally. Georgina Power was amazing, will definitely be using them again.
Andy Flint
stars
Posted 12 June 2026
My sister Lesley and myself are very pleased with the excellent service received from Jackie Murphy at Rothera Bray. She was very efficient and professional as well as being friendly and approachable. Emails were responded to extremely quickly and telephone calls answered which made the process smooth and stress free. Jackie also explained things thoroughly. She is a good asset to the firm. I would definitely recommend.
Christina
stars
Posted 12 June 2026
Jasmin Marshall was helpful, friendly, knowledgeable and explained complex legal terms and procedures in a simple understandable way. There was good communication and any tasks were completed promptly.
Mrs Yates
stars
Posted 10 June 2026
Marika Whiteman took over our case, and she was quick, professional, and extremely efficient. Thanks to Marika, the purchase was completed within just two weeks. I only wish she had handled the case from the beginning. I would highly recommend Marika Whiteman as a commercial solicitor.
D Vavan
stars
Posted 9 June 2026
We would like to thank you and you team for all your time and patience during this process. We would without a doubt recommend you to anyone who requires a conveyancing solicitor because you are ace.
Lynda Cox
stars
Posted 9 June 2026
Hayley & team were absolutely amazing very helpful & kept us up to date with or property sale all emails I sent was responded straight away. Would highly recommend 5*+!
Angela Webster
Jeremy Allen
Partner & Head of Trusts and Court of Protection
Jeremy Allen is a Wills, Probate and Trusts specialist at Rothera Bray Solicitors and is based at our Lace Market offices in the heart of Nottingham City Centre.
Russell Dalby
Partner
Russell is a Partner based at our Market Harborough office and specialises in all areas of Private Client work. He predominantly deals with probate administration and estate planning work – such as advising on Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Inheritance Tax planning.
Ann Farnill
Partner
Ann Farnill is a Partner in Rothera Bray’s Wills, Probate and Trusts department and is based at our Mapperley office. She specialises in Wills, Inheritance Tax planning, Powers of Attorney including acting for lay attorneys, Estate planning and administration.
Nelissa Hicks
Partner
Nelissa is Partner at Rothera Bray with a demonstrated history of working in the legal services industry. Nelissa has over 20 years’ experience as a Wills, Probate, Tax and Trusts solicitor and is based at our Loughborough office. She is skilled in Inheritance Tax Planning and the Administration of Trusts and Estates.
Martin Witherspoon
Partner
Martin provides advice and assistance with regard to Wills, Powers of Attorney and administration of estates at our West Bridgford Office.
Kirsten Wood
Partner & Head of Wills and Probate
Kirsten Wood leads the firm’s Wills and Probate department and is a partner with over 18 years’ experience specialising in will drafting, tax, trusts, estate administration and lasting powers of attorney.
Melissa Merry
Consultant
Melissa Merry is a Consultant in our Wills and Probate department, with over 30 years of experience in private client work. Melissa is based at our Derby city centre branch.
Laura Clare
Managing Associate
Laura Clare is a Managing Associate at Rothera Bray’s Derby office and specialises in advising clients in relation to Wills, Powers of Attorney, Inheritance Tax Planning and Estate Administrations and Trust Creation and Administrations.
Mark Hopper
Managing Associate
Mark Hopper is a Managing Associate in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate team and specialises in the administration of taxable estates and trusts, and the drafting of Wills involving the use of trusts.
Sally Jahangir
Managing Associate
Sally Jahangir is a Managing Associate in Rothera Bray’s Private Client team and is based at our Lace Market, Nottingham office.
Eleanor Robinson
Managing Associate
Eleanor Robinson is a Wills, Probate and Trusts specialist at and is based at our West Bridgford office.
Sarah Soo
Managing Associate
Sarah Soo is a Wills and Probate specialist at Rothera Bray Solicitors and has specialised in private client work since she began her career. Sarah is currently based at both our Beeston and Nottingham offices.
Amelia Carruthers
Senior Associate Solicitor
Amelia Carruthers is a Senior Associate at Rothera Bray’s Derby office and is experienced in drafting wills, lasting powers of attorney, administering estates and providing tax advice and planning.
Sandra Garvey
Senior Associate
Sandra is a Senior Associate in our Wills & Probate department based at our Market Harborough office and has over 35 years in experience in dealing in all areas of Wills & Probate.
Julie Graham
Senior Associate Solicitor
Julie is a Senior Associate Solicitor in our Wills and Probate department and is based at our West Bridgford Office.
Amy Goodwin
Associate Solicitor
Amy Goodwin is an Associate in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate team and is based at our Derby office.
Ed Granger
Associate Solicitor
Ed is an associate solicitor in the firm’s specialist trusts team. He is based at our Lace Market office.
Sam Hardy
Associate
Sam is an Associate in Rothera Bray’s Wills, Probate and Trusts department, specialising in trusts and estates administration. He is based at our Market Harborough office.
Rebecca Lee
Associate Solicitor
Rebecca is an Associate Solicitor in our Wills & Probate team based at our Leicester office.
Jasmin Marshall
Associate Solicitor
Jasmin Marshall is an Associate Solicitor in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based at our Mapperley office.
Laura Windsor
Associate Chartered Legal Executive
Laura Windsor is an Associate Chartered Legal Executive in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based at our Beeston office.
Libby Birt
Solicitor
Libby Birt is a Solicitor in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based at our Loughborough office.
Toby Byford
Solicitor
Toby is a Solicitor in the firms specialist Trusts team. He is based at our Lace Market office.
Talita Fantauzzi
Solicitor
Talita Fantauzzi is a Solicitor in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based at our Nottingham office.
Rebecca Holmes
Legal Executive
Rebecca is a Legal Executive in our Wills & Probate team. She is based at our Lace Market office.
Azeem Iqbal
Solicitor
Azeem Iqbal is a solicitor in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate team and is based at our Beeston office.
Brett James
Private Client Executive
Brett James is a Wills and Probate Private Client Executive at Rothera Bray Solicitors and is based at our Lace Market, Nottingham office.
Ria Makwana
Solicitor
Ria Makwana is a Private Client Solicitor specialising in Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning and Administration, and is based at our Loughborough office.
Priya Navsaria
Solicitor
Priya Navsaria is a solicitor in the Wills and Probate team and is based at our Leicester office.
Sallie Poultney
Private Client Executive
Sallie is a Private Client Executive in the Private Client Department at our Market Harborough office. She advises clients on a range of private client services including Wills, Probate and Lasting Powers of Attorney.
Alison Richardson
Legal Executive
Alison Richardson is a member of the wills, trust & probate team based at our Mapperley branch.
Amanda White
Private Client Executive
Amanda is a Private Client Executive in the Wills and Probate department at our Leicester office. She advises clients on a range of private client services and has been handling her own caseload since 2014.
Morgan Bramley
Trainee Solicitor
Morgan is a Trainee Solicitor in our Private Client department and is based at the Mapperley office.
Isabelle Cartwright
Trainee Solicitor
Isabelle Cartwright is a Trainee Solicitor in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based at our Loughborough office.
Sabita Kandel
Trainee Solicitor
Sabita Kandel is a Trainee Solicitor in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate team and is based at our Beeston office.
Jack Cooper
Senior Paralegal
Jack Cooper is a Senior Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based in Loughborough, Leicestershire.
Anna Guy
Senior Paralegal
Anna Guy has over 10 years’ experience of working in law firms, and 7 years’ experience of dealing with Wills and Probate matters. She’s based at our West Bridgford branch.
Rochelle Hutton
Senior Paralegal
Rochelle works in the private client team at the Market Harborough office, having joined the firm in November 2024.
Hollie Moore
Senior Paralegal
Hollie Moore is a Senior Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based at our Mapperley office.
Emma Seaton
Senior Paralegal
Emma Seaton is a Senior Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate team and is based at our Mapperley office.
Lisa Warren
Senior Paralegal
Lisa Warren is a Senior Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate team and is based in Derby.
Beth Ashton
Paralegal
Beth Ashton is a Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based at our Derby Office.
Amy Emmerson
Paralegal
Amy Emmerson is a Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate team and is based at our Beeston office.
Michelle Kingston
Paralegal
Michelle Kingston is a Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based at our Lace Market, Nottingham branch.
Kathryn Lane
Paralegal
Kathryn Lane is a Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based at our Loughborough office.
Elaine Langley
Paralegal
Elaine is a Paralegal in the Wills and Probate department based at the West Bridgford office.
Morgan McGahan
Paralegal
Morgan is a Paralegal in our Wills and Probate department and is based at our West Bridgford office.
Janet Prentice
Paralegal
Janet Prentice is a Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills, Probate and Trusts department and is based at our Lace Market office in the heart of Nottingham city centre.
Gill Subbarao
Paralegal
Gill Subbarao is a Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate department and is based at our Mapperley office.
Hannah Walker
Paralegal
Hannah Walker is a Paralegal in Rothera Bray’s Wills and Probate team and is based at our West Bridgford office.
Georgia Weller
Paralegal
Georgia is a Paralegal in our Wills and Probate team. She is based at our Market Harborough office.
Supporting families affected by baby loss in the UK
Claire Cooper, Senior Associate in Rothera Bray’s Medical Negligence team, reflects on the importance of Sands and Sands Awareness Week, and the vital role support services play for families affected by baby loss.
Corporate team advises GB Flint Coachworks on its sale to the Vella Group
Our Derby corporate team have advised the shareholders of GB Flint Coachworks on its sale to the Vella Group.
People Focus: Chris Monro – Family Law
Chris Monro is a long-standing Family Law Solicitor and is based at our Market Harborough office, bringing decades of experience shaped by a diverse and accomplished legal career. In this article we learn about one of his notable career highlights and discover the hobbies he looks forward to enjoying even more when he retires.
Statement from Greg Almond following conclusion of Nottingham Public Inquiry hearings
Following the conclusion of the hearings at the Nottingham Public Inquiry, Serious Injury Partner Greg Almond, who represents Nottingham Attacks survivors Wayne Birkett and Sharon Miller, has issued the following statement.