Who can apply for letters of administration?

Usually the closest eligible relative. We can advise on eligibility and what steps are needed.

What documents and information are needed?

Typically details of assets and liabilities, valuations, and information about the deceased and executors or administrators. We will guide you through what is needed for your specific situation.

Can you manage the probate process for me?

Yes. We can support with the application only, or manage the estate administration end to end, depending on what you prefer.

Probate application solicitors | Letters of administration

Support with probate applications, handled properly

When someone dies, it is often necessary to apply for legal authority before certain assets can be collected, sold, or transferred. If there is a valid will, this is usually a Grant of Probate. If there is no will, an eligible person may need to apply for Letters of Administration.

Applications can be delayed by missing information, valuation issues, or paperwork errors. Our solicitors can advise on which application is needed, help you gather the right information, prepare the forms accurately, and guide you through the process from start to finish.

What we can help with

Clear advice and practical support, whether you want guidance or a fully managed service.

Get Started

Confirming whether probate is required

Advising on Grant of Probate vs Letters of Administration

Identifying the right applicant and next steps

Gathering estate information and valuations

Preparing and submitting probate application paperwork

Inheritance tax reporting guidance where required

Dealing with property as part of the estate

Communicating with institutions and third parties

Guidance on distribution once authority is granted

What to do next?

When there is a dispute, the early steps matter. Keep communication calm and factual, avoid messages sent in anger, and make sure you keep copies of key documents and correspondence.

If you do not have the will, estate accounts or basic valuation information, request them early. Taking advice sooner can help you understand your position, preserve evidence, and avoid unnecessary cost or escalation.

Do not send heated messages or social posts. Keep communications factual.

Keep copies of emails, letters, and documents.

Ask for key documents if you do not have them (will, estate accounts, valuations).

Get early advice before positions harden.

What is probate?

Probate is the legal authority that allows an executor to deal with an estate. It is usually needed to collect in assets, close accounts, sell or transfer property, and distribute the estate to beneficiaries. Whether probate is needed depends on the assets involved and how they are owned.

What are letters of administration?

If there is no valid will, the estate is dealt with under intestacy rules and a Grant of Letters of Administration may be required. The person who applies is usually the closest eligible relative. We can advise who can apply and what steps need to be taken to move things forward.

Why professional Probate support helps

A clear application and correct paperwork can reduce delays and stress

Clarity on what is required

We confirm which grant is needed and what information must be provided.

Accurate paperwork

Reduce the risk of delays caused by errors or missing detail.

Support with valuations and evidence

Guidance on what figures and documents are needed and how to obtain them.

Inheritance tax and reporting support

Advice on the practical steps and submissions where required.

Help with property and estate assets

Support where property or more complex assets form part of the estate.

A calmer experience for executors and families

We take pressure off, and keep the process moving.

Probate application FAQs

What is the difference between probate and letters of administration?

If there is a valid will, the application is usually for a Grant of Probate and the executors apply. If there is no will, an eligible person applies for Letters of Administration and the estate is dealt with under intestacy rules.

When is probate required?

It depends on the assets involved and how they are owned. Some assets pass automatically, while others require a grant before they can be collected, transferred, or sold.

How long does a probate application take?

Timescales vary depending on the estate and whether inheritance tax reporting is required. We can give you a clearer view once we understand the basics of the estate.

Your Wills, Trusts & Probate Team

Our Wills, Trusts & Probate team helps you plan for the future and deal with loss with clarity and care. From writing your Will and setting up trusts to administering estates and arranging Lasting Powers of Attorney, they provide calm, straightforward guidance focused on protecting you, your wishes and the people who matter most.

David Lane

FCILEx, Director
Head of Wills, Probate and Trusts

Robin Heslop

LL.B. (London), Consultant Solicitor
Wills, Probate and Trusts

Rebecca Head

LL.B. (Hons), Associate Director
Wills, Probate and Trusts

Tracey Lane

FCILEx, TEP, Associate Director
Wills, Probate and Trusts

Satnaam Kaur

LL.B., Senior Associate Solicitor
Wills, Probate and Trusts

Mikey Baryana

LL.B. (Hons), LL.M., Solicitor
Wills, Probate and Trusts

Applying for probate or letters of administration