Disclaimer

Not legal advice

The information provided on this website, including the assessment tool, guides, checklists, and any email communications from Settle, is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated as such.

No solicitor-client relationship is created by using this website or providing your email address. Settle is not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

Assessment tool limitations

The probate assessment tool asks a series of questions and generates a summary based on your answers. The result is a general indication only. It cannot account for all the circumstances of a specific estate, and the output should not be the sole basis for any legal or financial decision.

Whether probate is required in a specific case depends on the facts of that case, the position of individual banks and institutions, and any changes to law or practice since the tool was last updated. Always verify directly with the relevant institutions.

When you should consult a solicitor

Settle is designed for straightforward estates. You should consult a qualified probate solicitor if:

• The estate includes overseas assets or property outside England and Wales
• There are business interests, trusts, or complex investment structures
• Significant inheritance tax is likely to be due
• The will is being challenged or there are disputes between beneficiaries
• The validity of the will is in doubt
• A beneficiary or potential claimant has made a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975
• You are uncertain about any aspect of your legal duties as executor or administrator
• The estate is insolvent (debts exceed assets)

Accuracy and currency of information

We make reasonable efforts to keep the information on this site accurate and current. However, probate law, HMRC procedures, court fees, and bank policies change. We cannot guarantee that any specific piece of information is correct at the time you read it.

Always verify key facts - especially fees, deadlines, and legal requirements - against official sources such as gov.uk, HMRC, HM Courts & Tribunals Service, and HM Land Registry before acting.

Finding a solicitor

If you need professional legal help, the Law Society's "Find a Solicitor" service at solicitors.lawsociety.org.uk allows you to search for regulated solicitors by location and specialisation. Probate solicitors can be found under the "Wills, probate and trusts" category. Always check a solicitor is regulated and ask for a written quote before instructing anyone.