Will you apply for the grant of probate for me?
No, we do not make applications for grant of probate. Instead, we offer maximum flexibility and savings by providing all you need to (a) apply for the grant yourself or (b) hand over to a professional of your choice. Read more about our service.
Do I have to attend a probate registry?
If you choose our Grant of Probate package, you will make the application for grant yourself, a simple process using the ready-compiled forms and guidance provided by The Probate Wizard. As of March 2012, attending a probate registry is not mandatory. Instead, you can choose to swear an oath at a local law firm. You will receive guidance explaining your options.
Can I ask a solicitor to make the application for grant?
It isn't difficult to make a personal application, and thousands do so every month. However, you may prefer the peace-of-mind of asking a solicitor or other professional to do so on your behalf.
For this option, choose our Probate Reports package.
Do you refer me to a solicitor?
If you choose our Probate Reports package, you have complete flexibility. We do not have a panel of law firms and we do not make referrals. Simply print or e-mail your probate reports to a professional of your choice; for example, your local probate solicitor. Most will be happy to accept your reports and make the application for grant on your behalf.
Can I use the Wizard if there may be inheritance tax?
Only around 3% of estates are subject to inheritance tax. You can still use our service. If tax is payable, or if the full inheritance tax account (IHT400) is required for some other reason, you can purchase our Probate Reports package and hand reports to a professional, such as a solicitor, who will complete the IHT400, pay tax and apply for the grant. You will make savings on legal fees by completing the first part of the process using The Probate Wizard.
You don't have to know the inheritance tax position before you start, though you should be aware that HM Revenue & Customs will charge interest on outstanding inheritance tax 6 months after date of death, and the full account must be submitted within 12 months.
The Probate Wizard does not compile form IHT400, required for taxable estates.
When do I choose my package and pay?
We don't charge upfront so you can start The Probate Wizard for free and perform much of the probate process before payment. After entering all the required information about the estate, you choose a package that suits you. Read more about our service.
Will you support me?
In addition to the guides and tips that form part of The Probate Wizard, you can contact us by phone, online chat and e-mail. We can't give specialist legal advice but will give you general pointers and help you through the process.
What happens if a grant of probate isn't required?
Sometimes a grant of probate is not required. If you're not sure whether this is the case, don't worry: the Wizard will work it out for you! If a grant is not required, you will be able to purchase our Probate Reports package.
How long will the probate process take?
The probate process can take anything from a few weeks to a few months. With The Probate Wizard, you can proceed at your own pace and resume when convenient.
Is the entire process "online"?
The Probate Wizard is online, but certain things cannot be conducted over the internet. For example, the person applying for the grant of probate will need to swear an oath in front of a solicitor. Also, most banks, utility companies and other organisations will request a copy of the death certificate, sent by post; The Probate Wizard compiles these letters for you.
Do I need a solicitor for probate?
No. Up to 68% of probates are conducted without professional assistance. See our video: Do I need a solicitor for probate?
If the estate is disputed or particularly complex, you may prefer to instruct a solicitor, and The Probate Wizard may not be for you. You may find that you wish to save money by using The Probate Wizard for most of the process, then seek professional assistance in, for example to pay inheritance tax or to set up trusts.
Is The Probate Wizard suitable for every estate?
Most estates are non-disputed and relatively straightforward. For these estates, The Probate Wizard is perfect. If the person who has died did not live in England or Wales or was bankrupt, or if there is a dispute, The Probate Wizard may not be for you.
The Probate Wizard cannot do certain things that apply to a small minority of estates, such as administer foreign property, prepare a deed of variation or compile form IHT400.
Is The Law Wizard insured?
Yes, we have professional indemnity insurance cover of £2 million.
Can I create a will using The Probate Wizard?
No, the Wizard is only for managing the probate process, which comes after a death. However, the Wizard does help you to interpret a deceased person's will, if there is one.
