Being named as an executor is a significant responsibility. Many executors — often family members or friends — are unfamiliar with the legal duties involved and the risks of getting it wrong. Probate Find connects executors with specialist solicitors who can provide as much or as little support as needed, from answering questions to taking on the full administration.
Key facts about executor support
- Executors have personal legal liability for the correct administration of the estate
- Support available for all or part of the process — from guidance to full administration
- Protection against claims from creditors and disappointed beneficiaries
- Expert handling of inheritance tax, property and complex assets
- Fully remote or face-to-face support depending on your preference
What is executor support?
An executor is a person named in a will who is responsible for administering the deceased's estate. Executor duties include registering the death, securing the estate, valuing assets and liabilities, applying for probate, notifying institutions, collecting assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remainder to beneficiaries. Executors can be held personally liable if they fail to carry out these duties correctly — making professional support invaluable.
When is it needed?
Executor support is recommended where: you have been named as executor but are unfamiliar with the process; the estate includes property, business assets or investments; there are multiple beneficiaries or potential for disputes; inheritance tax may be payable; or you simply want peace of mind that everything is being handled correctly.
The process — step by step
Understand your duties
Your specialist will explain your legal duties as executor and identify any immediate actions required — such as securing property or notifying the DWP and pension providers.
Value the estate
Together you will identify all assets and liabilities and obtain valuations required for the probate application and any HMRC inheritance tax return.
Apply for probate and collect assets
Your solicitor prepares the probate application and, once granted, contacts banks and institutions to collect or transfer assets into the estate account.
Settle debts and distribute
Outstanding liabilities are paid first. Once the estate is clear and all HMRC obligations are met, the remaining assets are distributed to beneficiaries — and you receive a full estate account.
How Probate Find helps
Probate Find matches executors with a specialist solicitor who will assess the estate and recommend the level of support most appropriate for the situation. Some executors prefer to be guided through the process step by step; others prefer to hand over the full administration. Either way, your matched specialist will protect you from personal liability and ensure the estate is administered correctly.
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