Wills and Probate Law
Wills are complicated business, whether you are writing or receiving one. Sterling Law has expert wills and probate lawyers in this field which can help you write or amend a will, whether to your relatives, a charity, or anyone else.
Being told you are the beneficiary of a will can be equally stressful, however. There are a whole host of legal actions that you may have to take, and Sterling Law’s experience in this area will make sure the process for you is as smooth as possible. Among other things, we can help you contest a will, apply for probate, and claim your property.
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal right to deal with someone else’s estate upon their death. An “estate” is defined as a person’s property, money, and possessions.
Applying for, and getting probate, can take a long time, particularly with the time taken to process applications. Sterling Law’s help means that, when you are named in a will, you will be able to deal with the estate of the person who wrote the will as quickly as possible, and without complicated issues that can set you back – you could even be fined for submitting the incorrect information!
If a will has not been left, but you are legally entitled to their property due to being a family member or otherwise, you will need a grant of letters of administration – which Sterling Law can help you apply for.
Sometimes, probate is not needed. It can be frustrating to start the process only to realise that it is not required, such as in cases where the deceased person only had savings or premium bonds, or jointly owned property, land, shares, or money with someone else. Our team can help you save time and money by making sure the right steps are taken at every part of the process.
Do You Need a Solicitor for Probate?
Wills and estates lawyers play a pivotal role in ensuring that your final wishes are carried out smoothly. These legal professionals specialise in estate planning, ensuring that your assets are distributed as per your wishes, minimising potential conflicts among beneficiaries, and navigating the complex legal procedures involved in probate.
Wills and Probate Services
Wills and probate services encompass:
- Expertise in estate planning. Our highly skilled solicitors specialise in estate planning, helping you create a comprehensive strategy to manage your assets during your lifetime and ensure their seamless transfer to your beneficiaries upon your passing. We understand that each client has unique needs, and we tailor our approach accordingly.
- Will drafting and review. Crafting a clear and unambiguous will is essential to prevent any confusion or legal challenges down the line. Our solicitors are well-versed in will drafting, ensuring that your document is legally sound and accurately reflects your wishes.
- Lasting power of attorney. This is a legal instrument that enables you to designate someone (an attorney) to make decisions in your stead if you become incapacitated. There are two kinds of Lasting Power of Attorney: one concerning property and financial matters, and another concerning health and well-being.
- Probate. This is the judicial procedure that ensues after a person passes away. It includes authenticating the validity of a deceased person’s will in court, identifying and cataloging the deceased person’s assets, appraising the property, settling debts and taxes, and allocating the remaining assets as directed by the will.
- Handling inheritance tax. This involves assessing the worth of the estate, determining any inheritance tax owed, and ensuring its payment. Inheritance tax is a levy on the estate (the assets, money, and belongings) of an individual who has passed away.
- Setting up trusts. A trust is a legal structure where one individual (the trustee) holds and administers assets for the benefit of others (the beneficiaries). Setting up trusts can be an efficient way to manage and safeguard your assets, both during your lifetime and posthumously.
- Challenging a will. Occasionally, there may be disagreements over the legitimacy of a will or the allocation of assets. Challenging a will involves legally disputing the stipulations of a will. This can be an intricate and contentious procedure, necessitating legal representation.
Why Choose Sterling Law?
If you’re in need of reputable wills and probate solicitors in London, look no further. Our dedicated team is here to provide you with expert legal guidance, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your loved ones are taken care of.
- Extensive legal knowledge. With years of experience specialising in wills, probate, and estate planning, our solicitors possess a deep understanding of the legal landscape. You can trust our expertise to navigate even the most intricate situations.
- Mitigating disputes. One of the most common challenges in probate is disputes among beneficiaries. A skilled solicitor can anticipate potential areas of conflict and work to prevent them, ensuring that the distribution of assets occurs smoothly and according to your wishes.
- Client-centric approach. We recognize that every client’s situation is unique, and we prioritise personalised solutions. Our team takes the time to listen to your concerns and tailor our services to meet your specific needs, providing you with peace of mind during a challenging time.
- Proven track record. Our track record of successful cases and satisfied clients speaks volumes about our commitment to excellence. We have helped numerous individuals and families secure their legacies and navigate the complexities of estate-related matters.
When it comes to matters of wills, probate, and estate planning, having the right legal support can make all the difference. Our team of inheritance lawyers in London is committed to guiding you through these processes with compassion, expertise, and a client-centric approach. By choosing our services, you’re choosing a partner who will stand by you every step of the way.
We are a modern and innovative boutique law firm with a flexible «can-do» approach. Our cross-domain specialisation allows for seamless solutions whether you are a business or an individual, allowing us to solve most complex problems, where several areas of law are involved.
