Sorting a loved one’s affairs after they have died can be overwhelming, yet it is something many families find themselves facing at an already emotional time.

Williamsons Solicitors, a long-established part of the Bridlington community, is reminding residents that they can look after all the burdensome legal and financial tasks on your behalf.

The specialist help available from the firm’s offices on Wellington Road, can provide great relief for grieving relatives who are frequently surprised by how much is involved.

Full estate administration service

The full service from the friendly team typically includes applying for a Grant of Probate, contacting banks and pension funds, closing accounts, valuing property and assets, paying funeral expenses, settling bills and taxes, distributing the estate to beneficiaries and paying inheritance tax when required.

Working with estates large and small, the team can assist even when there isn’t a will. Alongside managing paperwork and important deadlines, they ensure everything is handled properly from start to finish.

Reassurance

The firm says that the time-consuming practical matters can be made even more difficult when trying to balance work and family commitments or if there is a dispute. Outsourcing these tasks to the Williamsons team can provide reassurance and help prevent misunderstandings amongst family members.

Estate administration: your questions answered

What is estate administration?

Estate administration is the legal process of managing a person’s affairs after they die. This involves identifying their assets and liabilities, settling any debts, paying any taxes due, and distributing the remaining estate to beneficiaries in accordance with the will or, if there is no will, under the rules of intestacy.

The person responsible for carrying out this role is known as the executor (if named in a will) or the administrator (if there is no will).

At Williamsons Solicitors, we support families across Hull and East Yorkshire with clear, practical advice to make this process as straightforward as possible.

What happens first after someone passes away?

The first steps usually include registering the death and arranging the funeral. The executor, family or friends, should then locate the will (if there is one) and begin gathering information about the deceased’s assets and liabilities.

This may involve contacting banks, mortgage lenders, pension providers and utility companies. Establishing an accurate valuation of the estate is essential before moving forward.

This is when many clients contact us at this early stage for reassurance and support to manage the administration of the estate on their behalf.

What is probate and is it always required?

Probate is the legal process of obtaining authority to deal with a deceased person’s estate.

If there is a valid will, the executor applies for a Grant of Probate. If there is no will, an eligible person applies for Letters of Administration. Both are forms of Grant of Representation.

Probate is not always required. Smaller estates or jointly owned assets that pass automatically to a surviving owner may not need a Grant. However, many financial institutions will require probate before releasing funds.

Our team can quickly assess whether probate is needed and handle the application efficiently on your behalf.

How long does estate administration take?

The timeframe depends on the complexity of the estate. A straightforward estate may take between six and twelve months to complete. Estates involving property sales, business interests, overseas assets or disputes can take longer.

Delays may also arise where assets are difficult to trace or where inheritance tax matters need careful resolution.

At Williamsons Solicitors, we prioritise clear communication so you are kept informed throughout the process.

What taxes need to be considered?

Inheritance tax is one of the main considerations. Whether tax is payable depends on the value of the estate and the availability of exemptions and allowances.

The estate may also need to settle outstanding income tax or capital gains tax. Executors are responsible for ensuring the correct returns are submitted and any tax due is paid before distributing the estate.

Professional advice can be invaluable in ensuring tax matters are handled correctly and that available reliefs are claimed.

What if there is no will?

If someone dies without a valid will, they are said to have died intestate. The estate is then distributed according to the rules of intestacy, which set out a strict order of entitlement.

Unmarried partners and stepchildren (unless legally adopted) do not automatically inherit under these rules. This can sometimes lead to unintended outcomes and highlights the importance of making a valid will.

If you are dealing with an intestate estate, we can advise you clearly on your responsibilities and entitlement.

What responsibilities does an executor have?

Executors have a legal duty to act in the best interests of the estate and its beneficiaries. Their responsibilities include securing assets, obtaining valuations, applying for probate, paying debts and taxes, preparing estate accounts, and distributing assets correctly.

The role can be time-consuming and carries personal responsibility. Many executors choose to instruct a solicitor to assist with part or all of the administration.

Williamsons Solicitors can either support you in your role or manage the entire process on your behalf, providing practical guidance and compassionate support at every stage.

Rooted in Bridlington and proud to serve the local community, the local team offers clear, practical guidance when it is needed most.

• The wills and probate team can be contacted on 01262 678128 from 8:45am – 5pm, Monday to Friday
• Alternatively, you can pop in to make an appointment