Probates and Will Services in Surrey

At Hamlyns, we understand that losing a loved one is one of life’s most challenging experiences. Managing their financial affairs and navigating the probate process shouldn’t add to your burden during this difficult time.

Our experienced probate accountants in Surrey provide compassionate, professional support to help you through every step of the journey.

Probate Services in Surrey

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate, ensuring their assets are distributed per their will, codicils and letters of wishes. This includes gathering assets, settling any outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining estate to beneficiaries.

Hamlyns’ professional probate accountancy experts will assist with this often complicated and confusing process to ensure everything is administered as it should be.

When is Probate Required?

Probate is typically necessary when:

• The deceased owned property in their sole name
• They held significant financial assets in their sole name
• Certain insurance policies are payable to the estate
• Financial institutions require it to release funds

However, probate may not be required for smaller estates or when assets are held jointly with a surviving spouse or civil partner.

Types of Grants

There are two main types of grants:

• Grant of Probate: Issued when there is a valid will
• Letters of Administration: Required when someone dies without a will (intestate)

Most estates are settled within 6-12 months, though complex cases may take longer.

A will is a legal document that sets out your wishes for what should happen after you pass away or are no longer able to make decisions due to illness. Without a will, there is no guarantee that your assets will be distributed as you intended.

A professionally written will ensures your wishes are clearly documented and followed, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones. If someone dies without a will, the law decides who inherits your estate.

Our will writing service in Surrey is available to private clients who use our other services, allowing us to take a comprehensive approach to your estate planning.

Our Approach to Will Writing

We consider your entire financial situation, including:

• Who inherits your estate and at what age
• Who acts as executor(s) for the estate and/or trustee(s) for any trust which may be present
• The most tax-efficient method of passing wealth (such as business relief or trusts)
• How spouses, partners and children are provided for in the event of remarriage or divorce

Your will forms part of our complete private client service, ensuring:

• Regular reviews and updates
• Coordination with personal and business tax planning
• Integration with business succession planning
• Consideration of inheritance tax implications

For expert probate and will writing services in Surrey, contact Hamlyns today. Our experienced team is here to provide the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.