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Original poster

Talk to me about probate

8 replies

MummyDoIt · 02/09/2008 09:54

Do you need a solicitor when someone dies or can you sort it yourself? DH left a will, very straightforward leaving everything to me. Is it really necessary to appoint a solicitor to sort things out or is it something I can manage myself? Really have no idea what is involved.

OP posts:
mumoverseas · 02/09/2008 10:05

I'm sorry about DH, it must be a really difficult time for you. I'm sorry I can't be too much help but I'm pretty sure you don't have to officially appoint a solicitor and can apply for probate yourself. I did this a few years ago when my dad died but to be honest, I was in a bit of a daze most of the time so was lucky enough to have a solicitor whom I knew deal with most of it. You will need to have the original will and death certificate and then I seem to recall I had to do some sort of affidavit (sworn statement) which you have to 'swear in front of a solicitor'. why not contact the CAB and see if they are any help or wait and see if a probabe expert reads this? If any property needs transferring from his name to your name you will need a conveyancing solicitor to deal with this for you. Good luck

Freckle · 02/09/2008 10:31

Tbh, even if it's fairly simple, I think using a solicitor is probably the way to go. Dealing with unfamiliar legal matters is not something you really want to have to contend with at this time. If your property has to be transferred into your name, you will need a solicitor anyway. Call round a few and get some estimates of costs. Ask friends for recommendations.

RubyRioja · 02/09/2008 10:47

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

mummypoppins · 02/09/2008 15:31

mummy do it. I am a probate solcitor and have always offered free advice on here for Mnetters.

Cat me and I will help. If you look back on the widows and widowers of mumsnet unite thread I posted some advice on there for evenstar a month back. That may help. Otherwise get in touch PLEASE.

MP

Lilymaid · 02/09/2008 15:41

I'm dealing with probate for my mother at the moment. It isn't difficult, just tedious. As RubyRioja says, do a letter per day. You may wish to use a solicitor if matters are more complicated and for registering land in your own name.

Original poster
MummyDoIt · 02/09/2008 15:45

Mummypoppins, that is an incredibly generous offer. Thank you so much. I'll CAT you in the next day or two.

OP posts:
throckenholt · 02/09/2008 16:50

I think there are lots of books in the library that tell you how to do it - may well be worth picking one of those up.

RubyRioja · 02/09/2008 19:58

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

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