Probate (Executor Support)

Author: Chris Watts — Will Writer, Fern Wills & LPAs

Last verified: 27 October 2025 (England & Wales)

Quick-Read Summary

Probate is the legal and financial process of settling someone’s affairs after death.

It can be straightforward, but the paperwork, tax forms, and asset transfers often become complex and stressful.

At Fern Wills & LPAs, we work with a trusted probate specialist who provides practical, transparent executor support — keeping you in control while guiding you through every step.

Fixed-structure fees from £1,000 (typically ~2 % of estate value).

Practical Checklist — First Steps After a Death

• Locate the Will, Letters of Wishes, and any LPA documents.
• Register the death and order several official certificates.
• Compile an asset inventory: property, vehicles, investments, debts, insurance. Use your existing Life & Legacy Logs (Property, Finance), or ask us for copies.
• Keep valuables insured and notify banks to freeze accounts.
• Decide whether to administer the estate yourself or use professional support.
• Contact us to confirm whether probate is required and to receive a written scope.

What Probate Is — and When It’s Needed

Probate gives legal authority to deal with the deceased person’s assets.

It’s usually required when property is held in a sole name, or when banks or other institutions insist on a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration.

There is no set legal monetary threshold in England & Wales; each financial institution decides when to require a grant.

Typical bank thresholds for the minimum balance that triggers probate range from roughly £5,000 to £50,000, depending on the provider.

Property held solely will always require probate before sale or transfer.

Executor Responsibilities — In Brief

Executors must:

• Collect and safeguard assets.
• Pay debts, taxes, and expenses.
• Prepare estate accounts.
• Distribute inheritances under the Will.

If no Will exists, an administrator performs the same duties under intestacy rules.

Acting without guidance can cause delays, penalties, or disputes — especially where property or inheritance-tax issues arise.

DIY vs Professional Support

DIY Approach — Pros:

• Avoids professional fees on very small, simple estates.

Cons:

• Complex, time-consuming, and emotionally draining.
• Errors in valuations or tax forms can cause costly delays.
• Executors often realise the scale of the task only after mistakes occur.

Professional Executor Support — Pros:

• Expertise in probate law and administration.
• Reduced stress — specialist handles paperwork and HMRC filings.
• Prevents errors and family tension through clear communication.
• Transparent written scope and pricing before work begins.

Fern Wills & LPAs Approach

We act as your introducer and continuous point of contact.

Our trusted probate specialist works directly with you, not instead of you.

You remain the executor and authorise every decision and signature.

This cooperative model lowers cost, maintains oversight, and ensures the process stays efficient, accurate, and fully transparent.

Fee Structure (Executor Support)

• From £1,000 — fixed-structure fee.
• Typical total fee: ~2 % of the estate value.
• Estates over £1 m may qualify for discretionary discounts if straightforward.
• Written scope and third-party disbursements (valuations, conveyancing, court fees) always explained separately.
• Free 20-minute initial consultation — we’ll confirm whether professional help is required.

Real Examples

Mr Jones — Executor Support for Busy Children

Mr Jones wanted to spare his children the paperwork and risk of probate errors.

He appointed them as executors but arranged Fern’s probate support service so a professional could guide them step-by-step after his death.

When the time came, our trusted specialist handled forms, HMRC returns, and liaison with asset holders, while the children reviewed and signed every document.

The estate was settled smoothly and on time, with the family retaining full control.

Mrs Myers — Honest Advice First

After her parents’ death, our probate specialist confirmed that the estate was simple enough to manage herself.

She saved professional fees but kept our written checklist and helpline on standby — proof that clear, honest guidance matters as much as the work itself.

Mr Green — Planning Ahead to Simplify Probate

Mr Green foresaw potential conflict among his three adult children.

With Fern Wills & LPAs, he combined a well-structured Will, a detailed Letter of Wishes, and practical probate guidance for his chosen executors.

Because everything was documented and expectations were managed early, the estate later passed smoothly through probate with no disputes or delays.

Planning Ahead

Organising paperwork, keeping account lists updated, and storing Wills and LPAs securely can greatly ease probate later.

Our Life & Legacy Logs and Document Storage services help clients prepare well in advance.

Next Steps

• Book your free 20-minute consultation.
• Receive a written scope and fixed-structure fee estimate.
• Decide whether to instruct our probate specialist or continue independently — no pressure, no obligation.

Key Takeaway

Probate doesn’t need to be intimidating or expensive.

With professional executor support and transparent fees, you can fulfil your role confidently and honour your loved one’s wishes with care.