Useful

**moving-target-survivor** · 03-02-2012, 18:57

@westpoint: apologies correct...

How come NOT the bank?

**BiscuitsAB** · 03-02-2012, 19:00

Originally Posted by moving-target-survivor

@westpoint: apologies correct...

How come NOT the bank?

Because they're shite.

**BiscuitsAB** · 03-02-2012, 19:01

Originally Posted by rgjbloke

My condolences for your loss. I did the probate for both my mum and my dad when we lost them. They had been divorced for years so it was two different claims. My brother was a co executor. I didn't find it that difficult to be honest. I just filled the forms in and sent them off. We had to go into London to swear on oath etc and then when probate was granted, we just sorted it out. Nearly everything went to me and my brother so it wasn't that difficult. Just take your time over the form and fill it in correctly.

Sound advice.

**Westpoint** · 03-02-2012, 19:07

Originally Posted by moving-target-survivor

@westpoint: apologies correct...

How come NOT the bank?

It is much better to have personal control over the application. Banks tend to be very slow and extremely expensive.

**aardvaark the carpeted** · 03-02-2012, 19:15

I'm sorry for your loss. I've recently had the same unhappy experience. We used a Solicitor for Probate - at least once it is all over no one can come out from under a stone with a claim on the estate. The advice about getting half a dozen, (depending on bank accounts etc) copies of the death certificate is particularly sound. Another thing is that the funeral costs could be directed at the Solicitor for payment so that the bill is covered by the estate - which might be one less hassle for you and your family to worry about.

**Westpoint** · 03-02-2012, 19:26

Normally , although any cash in the bank is frozen as soon as they are notified of the death. One important point to remember is that the bank are able to pay the Funeral expenses straight out of the deceased persons cash at the bank.

**MightyBigEgo** · 03-02-2012, 20:35

Thanks for the advice guys. I didn't know about the certificates.

**Ned_Seagoon** · 03-02-2012, 20:45

Depends on how complex the will is and how on side the beneficiaries are. I am currently acting as executor for dearly departed MIL's estate. Have done everything DIY and, thus far, have not encountered any difficulties. The probate office in Cardiff were excellent and I found that MIL's former bank, Barclays, swung into action providing a financial advisor as did the Solicotor that she used off and on for many years both even though the estate is miniscule (sniff). Good luck and do not hesitate to ask for more support.

**moving-target-survivor** · 03-02-2012, 22:00

Ditto my experience with Lloyds. An independant financial adviser was appointed by them to liase with me as a (power of) Attorney

The process seemed to compare favourably with my experience of being an executor of my mothers will

**ADSOL** · 03-02-2012, 22:19

I am sorry to hear your news.

Solicitors are not all bad but will use up some cash. All costs should be clearly explained at the start if you wish to go for this option.

It is not an horrendously difficult process if the will is reasonably straightforward and there are no arguments about it. If there are arguments then seek legal advice straightaway is my advice.

The CAB can help but I would recommend you get to know the local probate office well. They are a fountain of useful information.

It is not a race either so get it done but take a little time.

Best wishes.