Probate & Administration of Estates
Our long history of advising on trusts, wills and probate provides us with the practical experience and technical expertise to guide our clients through the challenging times when someone dies.
Probate and administration of estates
The highly experienced team guide you through the process ensuring that probate can be obtained efficiently. They have a wealth of experience in advising clients on UK and cross-border estates meaning that they are well placed to advise on:
- Cross-border estates for both UK domiciled and non-domiciled individuals
- Post death variations
- Taxes including inheritance tax, including business and agricultural property reliefs
- Intestacy
- Heritage assets and reliefs, conditional exemption and offers in lieu of tax
- Complex asset types
See here for further details and information on our fees.
Wills & Probate Disputes
Sadly, when someone dies, problems can occur. The Will itself might be unclear or not legally binding; family members or dependants may feel they have been unfairly treated and make a claim; or there may be a conflict with a Will from another country. In these circumstances, our highly rated Trust & Probate Disputes team are well placed to advise on how best to solve the problem.
Planning for the Future
Often, a death might impact on a business or trust structure and the probate team work closely with other Boodle Hatfield lawyers to review the structures in place for the heirs and beneficiaries.
Recommended reading
Private Client & Tax Senior Associate, Anna Davies explains the intricacies and importance of Lasting Powers of Attorney.
Read more 04 Mar 2026 Family businesses: is your approach to managing talent and culture at risk?The Employment Rights Act 2025 introduces significant updates to employment rules, prompting family businesses to review how they manage people and processes. With new requirements around unfair dismissal and tribunal claims, the shift towards more structured and documented practices offers an opportunity to strengthen governance and support long‑term resilience. Partner, Clare Stirzaker and Senior Associate, Joanne Leach outline the key changes and practical steps for family‑owned firms to prepare.
Read more 19 Feb 2026 I am a dual national British citizen. What should I do about the rule changes coming into force on 25 February 2026?Immigration Partner, Zoe Jacob provides clear guidance for dual British citizens on the stricter UK entry requirements coming into force on 25 February 2026. She highlights what documents will be needed, how to avoid travel disruption and what to do if urgent travel is required.
Read more 12 Feb 2026 The new £2.5m BPR allowance: Opportunities and shareholder risksCould restructuring your options for shareholdings help you unlock the new £2.5m BPR allowance, or create new risks? In Business & Accountancy Daily, Private Wealth Senior Associate, James Woods‑Davison explains that while the increased allowance offers inheritance tax opportunities, having multiple minority shareholdings can expose businesses to governance pressures and unfair‑prejudice claims. Strong governance and clear decision‑making are essential to protect long‑term value.
Read more