Supporting you through one of life’s most difficult times
Losing someone close to you is never easy. Alongside dealing with your grief, you may suddenly find yourself responsible for managing their estate and navigating unfamiliar legal and financial processes.
Whether you’ve been named as an executor in a Will or are administering the estate of someone who died without one, our experienced Private Client team is here to help.
At Rogers & Norton, we’ve been supporting individuals and families across Norfolk since 1982. From our offices in Norwich, Attleborough and Dereham, we provide clear, practical advice in plain English, helping to make the Probate process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
Whether you simply need assistance obtaining a Grant of Probate or would like us to deal with the entire administration of the estate, we’ll tailor our support to your individual circumstances.
What is Probate?
Probate is a term many people have heard, but few fully understand until they find themselves needing it.
In simple terms, Probate is the legal process that gives someone the authority to deal with a person’s estate after they’ve died.
If the deceased left a valid Will, the executors named in that Will will usually apply for a Grant of Probate. If there isn’t a Will, a close relative may need to apply for Letters of Administration instead.
Obtaining the Grant is often only one part of the process. Before an estate can be distributed, there may be assets to value, debts to settle, tax to calculate and legal paperwork to complete.
Our Private Client team can help with as much or as little of the process as you need.
Do I always need Probate?
Not necessarily.
Whether Probate is required depends on the type and value of the estate and how the deceased owned their assets.
For example, Probate may not be required where:
- Assets were owned jointly and pass automatically to the surviving owner.
- The estate is relatively small and financial institutions are prepared to release funds without a Grant.
- Certain assets pass directly to a named beneficiary.
However, many estates do require Probate, particularly where property was owned solely by the deceased or financial organisations request a Grant before releasing funds.
If you’re unsure whether Probate is needed, our team can advise you.
Grant of Probate or full Estate Administration?
Every estate is different, which is why we offer different levels of support.
Grant of Probate
Some executors are happy to deal with the administration of the estate themselves but need professional assistance obtaining the Grant of Probate.
In these circumstances, we can prepare the Probate application, advise on the legal requirements and help you obtain the Grant, allowing you to continue administering the estate yourself.
Full Estate Administration
Many executors prefer us to manage the entire process on their behalf.
This can include:
- Identifying and valuing assets and liabilities.
- Contacting banks, investment providers and other organisations.
- Preparing Inheritance Tax returns where required.
- Applying for Probate.
- Collecting in assets
- Paying debts and liabilities.
- Distributing the estate to beneficiaries.
- Preparing detailed estate accounts.
We’ll explain the options available at the outset so you can decide how much support you’d like.
How we can help
Administering an estate can be time-consuming and emotionally challenging, particularly if you’re also coping with the loss of someone close to you.
Our experienced Private Client team can guide you through every stage of the process, ensuring legal requirements are met and helping to ease the administrative burden.
We’ll provide clear advice, keep you informed throughout and work at a pace that’s appropriate for you.
Common reasons people come to us
Every estate is different but many of our clients contact us because:
- They’ve been named as an executor and don’t know where to start.
- They want to avoid making costly mistakes.
- There isn’t a Will.
- The estate includes property or business assets.
- Inheritance Tax may be payable.
- There are multiple beneficiaries.
- They simply don’t have the time to deal with the administration themselves.
Whatever your circumstances, we’ll explain the process clearly and provide the level of support that’s right for you.
Supporting you beyond Probate
Many families find that dealing with one estate encourages them to put plans in place for the future.
Our Private Client team can also advise on:
Planning ahead can make things much easier for your own family in the future, and we’re here to support you whenever you need us.
Why choose Rogers & Norton?
Since 1982, we’ve been helping individuals and families across Norfolk navigate Probate and Estate Administration with confidence.
We understand that every family’s circumstances are different, and that dealing with the legal aspects of someone’s estate often comes at an emotional time.
Clients choose Rogers & Norton because we combine technical expertise with a friendly, approachable service. We’ll explain everything in plain English, answer your questions and keep you informed throughout the process.
When you choose Rogers & Norton, you’ll benefit from:
- Experienced Private Client solicitors and legal professionals.
- Members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP).
- Members of Solicitors for the Elderly.
- Straightforward advice without unnecessary legal jargon.
- Tailored support based on your individual circumstances.
- Convenient appointments in Norwich, Attleborough and Dereham.
Much of our work comes through recommendations and returning families who trust us to support them through some of life’s most significant moments.
Meet with our Private Client team in Norwich, Attleborough or Dereham
With offices in Norwich, Attleborough and Dereham, we’re proud to support individuals and families from across Norfolk and further afield.
Whether you require assistance with obtaining a Grant of Probate or full Estate Administration, you can arrange an appointment at the office that’s most convenient for you.
If you’re unable to attend one of our offices, please speak to our team and we’ll be happy to discuss the options available.
Ready to speak to our Probate team?
If you’ve recently lost a loved one and would like advice about Probate or Estate Administration, we’re here to help.
Our experienced Private Client team will take the time to understand your circumstances, explain the process clearly and provide practical guidance that’s tailored to your needs.
Contact our Private Client team today to arrange an appointment at our Norwich, Attleborough or Dereham office.
For more information on our legal services or to arrange an appointment with a member of our team, contact us at 01603 666001, email enquiries@rogers-norton.co.uk or complete the ‘Request a Consultation’ enquiry form on our website.
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