What to Expect as an Estate Administrator
Managing an estate after a loved one’s passing can be challenging. The role of the Administrator of an estate involves handling assets, settling debts, and distributing the estate. Jamie Jukes...
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When you suffer bereavement, it can be difficult to know where to start. Dealing with probate; the legal aspects and formalities involved, at an emotionally fraught time, can be extremely tough.
For those dealing with the estate administration (either executors appointed under a Will, or administrators where there is no Will) there will be a number of questions to be resolved; should I deal with everything myself, appoint a solicitor, or appoint another professional?
The role of executor carries onerous responsibilities. Probate work can be a minefield, ready to trap the unwary. It is important to consider the full implications of the role before taking on the responsibility on your own. Ultimately, executors and administrators carry personal liability for any mistakes in their dealings with the estate.
At WSP solicitors, we are increasingly seeing people begin the process themselves, and then come to us at a later date, with deadlines fast approaching, because they have run into difficulty.
There are many reasons to consider appointing a solicitor at an early stage, for instance;
Probate is a legal process, and it is no bad thing to have a lawyer by your side. Solicitors who specialise in probate will also have wider legal knowledge they can bring to bear if complications arise. All solicitors are regulated by the Solicitor Regulation Authority (SRA), and must carry indemnity insurance for clients’ protection. The Law Society has a Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS) to denote a specialism in this area. Membership of STEP (designation TEP) will also reassure you that you are dealing with a suitably qualified professional.
WSP Solicitors is an accredited member of WIQS with a dedicated experienced team on hand to assist you through the process.
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