Probate Lawyer

Expert guidance through the probate process

Guiding You Through the Probate Process

Losing someone close to you is never easy, and the legal responsibilities that follow can feel overwhelming. If you’ve been asked to handle a loved one’s estate, it’s natural to feel unsure about where to start or what’s required.

Our probate lawyers are here to guide you through the process with clarity and compassion. Whether the estate is simple or complex, we’ll support you with everything from applying for a Grant of Probate to managing inheritance tax, distributing assets and resolving any disputes. Our aim is to ease the pressure and ensure your loved one’s wishes are properly respected.

    Request a consultation

    Simply complete the form and a member of our team will be in touch





    Helping you navigate probate and estate administration

    Our probate services include:

    • Obtaining the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration
    • Inheritance tax advice and reporting
    • Transferring or selling property and other assets
    • Distributing the estate and advising on Will trusts
    • Varying an estate with a Deed of Variation
    • Making or defending inheritance claims
    • Contesting a Will
    • Executor or trustee disputes

    Common issues we help with

    • Estates involving business or agricultural property
    • Foreign assets and international probate
    • Disputes between beneficiaries or executors
    • Dealing with complex or high-value estates

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    CORPORATE INSOLVENCY & GOVERNANCE ACT 2020 (Act)
    2nd Jul 2020

    On 26th June 2020, the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020 came...

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    2 mins read

    Warranties and Indemnities in Acquisition Agreements
    14th Oct 2019

    Warranties and indemnities are a means of allocating risk between sellers and...

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    3 mins read

    Buying or Selling a Business: Shares or Assets?
    9th Sep 2019

      The Fundamental Difference Share Sale or Purchase:  this involves the buyer...

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    3 mins read

    How long should it take to sell my Business?
    12th Dec 2019

    We’ve been involved in a number of transactions recently that, as I’ve...

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    3 mins read

    Preparing for a Share Sale: Company Health Check
    13th Feb 2020

    The sale of a company can be a long and complex process...

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    2 mins read

    Inheritance Tax may be replaced
    10th Feb 2020

    The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Inheritance & Intergenerational Fairness (APPG IIF) has...

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    1 min read

    Statutory Legacy increase for partners under the Intestacy Rules
    20th Jan 2020

    As per the agreed promise to update the intestacy rules every five...

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    2 mins read

    A widow has been allowed to claim against her husband’s estate 26 years after grant of probate
    4th Feb 2020

    The case of Thakare v Bhusate [2020] sets a new landmark in the...

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    1 min read

    To sell or not to sell: Considerations for Business Owners
    6th Feb 2020

    Embarking on a company sale can be a lengthy, complex and expensive...

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    3 mins read

    Shareholders Agreements and Articles of Association: Does my company need them?
    6th Jan 2020

    Articles of Association Articles of Association (Articles) are effectively the rules of...

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    2 mins read

    share buyback
    Company Buyback of Shares
    2nd Jan 2020

    Under a share buyback, a company acquires shares in itself from an...

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    2 mins read

    A GUIDE TO BUSINESS STRUCTURES
    14th Jan 2020

    There are a number of different business structures that can be chosen...

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    4 mins read

    Our Customer Success Stories

    Case Study mlplaw acts on sale of part of UK pet supplies firm
    mlplaw advises on the sale of a leading UK pet supplies manufacturer and distributor
    23rd Jun 2025

    We are proud to have advised the shareholders of one of the...

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    2 mins read

    Case Study mlplaw advises on successful estate agency sale
    mlplaw advises on the successful sale of an established sales and lettings estate agency
    23rd Jun 2025

    Our Corporate team is pleased to have advised the shareholders of a...

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    1 min read

    A Successful Settlement Agreement Negotiation
    Case Study: How mlplaw secured £28,663, an improved reference and reduced restrictions for a client
    17th Jun 2025

    An employee at a large media company returned from maternity leave only...

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    2 mins read

    Employee Benefit Trust
    Case Study: Setting up Employee Benefit Trust for Travelogix Ventures Ltd
    6th May 2025

    mlplaw has worked with Travelogix Ventures Limited (the Company) and its directors...

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    2 mins read

    The Importance of Post-Termination Restrictions and Confidentiality Clauses in Contracts of Employment
    Case Study: Post-Termination Restrictions and Confidentiality Clauses
    25th Mar 2025

    Safeguarding Innovation: The Importance of Post-Termination Restrictions and Confidentiality Clauses in Contracts...

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    2 mins read

    Boosting revenue for mlpflex
    Case Study: Boosting Revenue with mlpflex
    3rd Mar 2025

    In this Case Study, we outline the power of mlpflex and the...

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    2 mins read

    Single Multi-Site Franchise Agreement
    Case Study: Legal support in transitioning to a Single Multi-Site Franchise Agreement
    25th Feb 2025

    Our client, a franchisee operating multiple UK locations under a globally recognised...

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    3 mins read

    mlplaw facilitates EOT transition for leading UK sports retailer
    Case Study: mlplaw facilitates EOT transition for leading UK sports retailer
    30th Jan 2025

    mlplaw has advised one of the UK’s leading sports retailers on a...

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    1 min read

    Employment Ownership Trust Case study
    Case Study: December Group Transforms into an Employee-Owned Business
    28th Nov 2024

    mlplaw has advised December Group Limited, the holding company for a property...

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    1 min read

    Edge Public Solutions case study
    Case Study: Helping Edge Public Solutions Transition to Employee Ownership Trust
    19th Aug 2024

    This project involved the incorporation of a new employee owned trust company...

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    2 mins read

    Techer and a boy with learning difficulties
    Case Study: NTAS Restructures by Empowering Employees Through EOT
    24th Jul 2024

    We acted for the new employee owned trust company in the restructure...

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    1 min read

    Case Study: Vulnerable Persons Trusts
    4th Mar 2024

    Following an initial meeting with new clients to discuss their Will instructions,...

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    2 mins read

    Case Study: Domain Squatting Claim
    1st Mar 2024

    Stephen Attree and Amelia Denton of mlplaw’s Intellectual Property Team represented Imperative...

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    2 mins read

    Case Study: How Legal Guidance Could Have Made a Difference
    9th Feb 2024

    One of our new instructions this week led me to think again...

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    2 mins read

    Case Study: mlplaw Facilitated the Sale of Three Different Insurance Brokers Businesses
    29th Jan 2024

    mlplaw’s Corporate Team, led by Rachel Owen, had the privilege of representing...

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    2 mins read

    Case Study: mlplaw closes ‘John Lewis’ style NHS deal
    12th Jul 2022

    Altrincham-headquartered MLP Law has advised an NHS GP practice on a transition...

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    2 mins read

    mlpflex - preventing problems before they arise
    With or Without mlpflex – A Tale of Two Outcomes
    19th Aug 2021

    mlpflex works proactively, our specialists identifying solutions long before problems even arise....

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    3 mins read

    Our approach

    Choosing our probate solicitors is an investment in peace of mind during a very difficult time in your life.

    Our team brings a wealth of experience in probate law, ensuring that your loved one’s estate is managed with the utmost professionalism and efficiency.

    What sets us apart is our ability to navigate complex family dynamics and sensitive issues. We understand that family relationships can be intricate, and our lawyers excel at fostering amicable resolutions while upholding the integrity of the deceased person’s wishes.

    Testimonials

    Legal Considerations in Healthcare: What You Need to Know

    What is probate, and when do you need it?
    Probate is the legal process of administering someone’s estate after they die. If the person left a Will, the named executors apply for a Grant of Probate. If there’s no Will, their next of kin applies for Letters of Administration instead. These documents confirm legal authority to deal with the person’s property, finances and possessions.

    Not every estate needs probate, but if there’s property, investments or significant financial accounts involved, it’s usually required. Our team can help you work out what’s needed and apply on your behalf.

    How long does probate take?
    Timelines vary, but on average, the process takes 8 to 12 months. Larger or more complicated estates, for example, those with international assets, disputes, or tax issues, may take longer. We’ll give you a clear, tailored timeline based on the estate you’re dealing with, and keep you updated at every stage.

    Can the way an estate is distributed be changed?
    Yes, in some cases. If all affected beneficiaries agree, a Deed of Variation can be used to change how the estate is shared out even if there’s a valid Will. This is often done for tax reasons or to include someone who was unintentionally left out. It must be completed within two years of death, and we can advise on whether it’s appropriate and prepare the necessary paperwork.

    Understanding your options and costs
    We offer a range of pricing options depending on how much support you need. If you simply want help getting the Grant of Probate, we offer fixed fees starting at £1,500 plus VAT. For full estate administration, we’ll provide a tailored proposal with options this may include fixed fees, hourly rates, or a percentage of the estate’s value.

    Our aim is to be transparent, flexible and fair. You’ll never be surprised by your bill, and we’ll agree the right approach with you from the outset.

    What if there’s a dispute?
    Unfortunately, disagreements can arise over the contents of a Will, how an estate is handled, or who is entitled to inherit. We deal with both non-contentious and contentious probate matters. That includes making or defending claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975, as well as executor or trustee disputes. If you’re unsure of your rights or worried about a claim, it’s important to act quickly strict time limits apply.

    Why choose MLPLaw as your probate lawyer?
    Our team includes STEP-qualified solicitors and members of Solicitors for the Elderly, the highest standard in this field. We understand that every family is different, and we adapt our service to meet your needs, whether your situation is simple or complex. We speak in plain English, provide practical answers, and make sure you always know where you stand.

    Meet our Team

    Jane Hunter - Partner and Head of Private Client

    Jane Hunter

    Partner and Head of Private Client
    Doris Raggatt - Wills, Trusts and Probate - Legal Director

    Doris Raggatt

    Legal Director - Wills, Trusts and Probate
    Kristina Wills - Solicitor

    Kristina Wills

    Solicitor - Wills, Trusts and Probate
    Katie Davis - Paralegal Apprentice

    Katie Davies

    Paralegal Apprentice
    Lily Evans - Wills, Trusts and Probate - Paralegal

    Lily Evans

    Paralegal

    Jane Hunter

    Partner and Head of Private Client

    Jane is a Private client lawyer who is CTAPS qualified, and a member of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers. Jane acts for a wide variety of clients including business owners, high net worth individuals and agricultural clients.

    Jane is experienced in advising on Wills, Powers of Attorney, Tax Planning, Administration of Estates, Court of Protection matters, and Asset Protection within families and businesses and contested Probate estates.

    Jane lives locally in Lymm with her 18-year-old son and in her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and renovating her house and garden.

    Phone: 0161 926 1542

    Doris Raggatt

    Legal Director - Wills, Trusts and Probate

    Doris qualified as a solicitor in 2012 and since then has worked as a private client lawyer completing the full range of trusts, tax and estates work. Doris has also achieved the STEP diploma and is accredited member of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers.

    Doris is also a committee member on the Manchester branch of STEP and is actively involved in working with STEP to promote private client work and to maximise the client experience. In addition, Doris has achieved the Solicitors for the Elderly Diploma in private client work. She is currently studying for a further diploma with STEP,  ‘Advising Business Families’, which will further enhance her knowledge to assist clients who own their own businesses

    In the Legal 500 solicitor rankings Doris was described as ‘incredibly meticulous when she handles complex estates and has demonstratable experience acting on Court Protection proceedings and applications‘.

    Doris specialises in dealing with high-net-worth clients for Wills, estate planning and in the administration of complex estates. She also deals with powers of attorney, court of protection matters, drafting of trust documentation and the administration of trusts.

    In her spare time, Doris is a keen gym attendee and loves walking in the Peak District, with Kinder Scout being her favourite walk.

    Phone: 0161 926 1538

    Kristina Wills

    Solicitor - Wills, Trusts and Probate

    Kristina is a highly experienced solicitor with over 18 years in the legal sector, specialising in Private Client work. She qualified as a solicitor in 2022 and has spent the past six years focusing on areas such as drafting Wills, creating Powers of Attorney, and administering estates. In March 2025, Kristina joined mlplaw after building her expertise at a respected Warrington-based firm.

    Known for her approachable and empathetic nature, Kristina is committed to delivering the highest standard of service, ensuring her clients’ needs are met with care and precision.

    Beyond her professional commitments, Kristina enjoys spending time with her family and friends, as well as engaging in a wide range of activities such as horse-riding and knitting.

    Katie Davies

    Paralegal Apprentice

    Katie joined us in 2021 as a Legal Assistant following completion of her Applied Law and Business qualification. During Katie’s role as a legal assistant, she supported various teams throughout the business assisting with administrative tasks.

    In 2022 Katie joined our Wills, Trusts and Probate team as a Paralegal Apprentice and is hoping to start her Solicitor Apprenticeship in 2025. Since working in our Wills, Trusts and Probate Team, Katie has gained experience in drafting Wills, Codicils, Trusts, and Lasting Powers of Attorney for both personal and business clients. She also assists with the administration of estates, and property transfers. Katie is working towards completing her apprenticeship and SQE examinations before qualifying as a solicitor.

    In Katie’s spare time she enjoys spending time with her son and partner, going for days out, and is an avid Manchester United fan.

    Phone: 0161 926 1526

    Lily Evans

    Paralegal

    Lily is a Paralegal in mlplaw’s Wills, Trusts and Probate Team. Lily graduated from Sheffield University in 2024 and has since been working within the sector supporting the with the administration of Estates, drafting Wills and providing valuable support to clients. Lily has experience in Criminal, Employment, and Private Client law and she is working towards completing her SQE exams and becoming a solicitor in the future. Prior to working at mlplaw she has worked with counsel on contentious Estate disputes, taken part in pro-bono work in the civil court and is well versed in advocating on behalf of her clients.

    Away from work, Lily is a pilates enthusiast and enjoys practicing and competing in Dressage on the weekends.

    Phone: 0161 926 1527

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      • mlplaw is a member of Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter
      • mlplaw is accredited Conveyancing Quality by The Law Society
      • mlplaw is Legal 500 accredited Legal Services provider