When a loved one passes away, handling their estate can be overwhelming.
One of the most crucial tasks involved is probate—the legal process of managing and distributing the deceased person’s estate.
A common question is: “Can I do probate myself, or do I need a solicitor?”
The answer depends on your circumstances, but understanding the whole picture is essential before making that decision.
At London Estate Agency, we provide professional probate support, property valuations, and full estate sale services—ensuring every step is compliant, stress-free, and tailored to your situation.
What Is Probate?
Probate is the legal right to deal with someone’s estate after death. It typically involves collecting assets, settling debts and taxes, and distributing the estate to beneficiaries.
The process varies depending on whether the deceased had a valid will. If there is a will, the executor applies for a Grant of Probate.
If not, a Grant of Letters of Administration is needed.
Can You Handle Probate Without a Solicitor?
You can carry out probate yourself if the estate is relatively straightforward. Many people in the UK successfully manage probate without hiring a solicitor.
However, it comes with significant responsibilities and legal obligations. You’ll need to:
- Locate and value all assets (including property, shares, and possessions)
- Settle any outstanding debts and taxes
- Apply for the correct grant
- Distribute the estate according to the will or intestacy rules
- Keep records of all financial transactions
DIY probate can be a practical option for small estates or where no inheritance tax is due.
If the estate includes property, overseas assets, complex finances, or disputes among beneficiaries, it’s wise to involve professionals.
Why Instruct Us Instead of Doing Probate Alone
At London Estate Agency, we are more than just a property company—we’re your partners through the entire probate process. Here’s how we can help:
1. Accurate Probate Valuations
Probate requires a formal valuation of property within the estate.
Our experienced agents provide HMRC-compliant valuations to ensure your application is correct and avoids penalties.
2. Full Property Management
We don’t just value the property—we also handle the preparation for sale, including clearance, refurbishment, and marketing.
With our local knowledge and trusted buyers’ network, you’ll benefit from a higher sale price and faster turnaround.
3. Probate Sale Specialists
Selling a property during probate is different from a regular sale.
We handle all paperwork, liaise with legal professionals, and ensure timely progress, helping you avoid delays and complications.
4. Legal and Compliance Guidance
Even if you’re managing probate yourself, having a reliable company to guide you through compliance, tax implications, and government forms can be invaluable.
We work closely with probate solicitors and can refer you to trusted legal partners if needed.
5. Peace of Mind
DIY probate carries risk. Mistakes in legal filings, tax underpayment, or overlooking creditors can result in personal liability.
By working with us, you gain confidence that every aspect is handled professionally and legally.
When Should You Use a Solicitor?
While you can handle probate yourself, there are specific scenarios where involving a solicitor is strongly advised:
- The estate is large and complex
- There’s no will
- There are international assets
- The estate is insolvent (more debts than assets)
- The will is being contested
- You are feeling overwhelmed and unsure of legal obligations
In such cases, we can still assist by valuing property, managing the sale, and coordinating with solicitors, saving you time and effort.
What Happens If You Make a Mistake During Probate?
If you act as executor, you must legally manage the estate properly. Mistakes such as:
- Incorrect property valuation
- Underpaying inheritance tax
- Missing a creditor
- Distributing the estate too early
…can lead to personal liability, fines, or legal challenges. Probate errors can delay the process or reduce the value beneficiaries receive.
Our clients prefer to instruct us early, especially when property is involved. We provide transparent, compliant processes from valuation to final sale—minimising risk and maximising value.
How Long Does Probate Take Without a Solicitor?
Depending on the estate’s complexity, DIY probate typically takes 6 to 12 months. Delays can occur due to:
- Errors in forms or valuations
- Delays in receiving information from banks or financial institutions
- Difficulty in selling the property
Using a professional service can reduce that timeframe significantly by streamlining property sales and ensuring documents are correctly submitted the first time.
FAQs About Probate and Solicitors
Do I need a solicitor if I’m named as executor?
No, but you have the choice.
You can manage probate yourself or instruct a solicitor or estate agency to help with parts of the process—mainly if the estate includes property.
Can a property be sold before probate is granted?
A property cannot be legally sold before probate is granted but can be marketed.
We handle this preparation while the grant is pending, so there’s no delay once approved.
How much does probate cost with a solicitor?
Solicitor fees vary but average around £2,000 to £6,000, depending on complexity.
We offer more cost-effective solutions at London Estate Agency by handling property aspects in-house.
What’s included in your probate service?
We offer:
- Probate valuations
- Full property marketing and sale
- Refurbishment and clearance
- Compliance and coordination with solicitors
Can you help if I’ve already started probate?
Yes! We frequently assist executors mid-process, especially once they reach the property sale stage.
Even if probate is underway, you can contact us to manage the property professionally.
Instruct Us to Handle Your Probate Property Needs
If you’re wondering, “Do I need a solicitor for probate?”
While it’s not mandatory, having expert support ensures you avoid mistakes, reduce delays, and get the best outcome.
London Estate Agency is trusted by families across London for probate valuations, property sales, and full estate services.
Whether applying for probate or working with a solicitor, we provide the property expertise to get through the process confidently.
Instruct us today and ensure your probate journey is smooth, compliant, and handled with care.
Read Our Other Blogs:
