What happens after a loved one passes away?
Aside from the emotional weight, there’s paperwork. A lot of paperwork. And if you're not prepared, probate can feel like navigating a maze with a blindfold and a briefcase full of tax forms.
That’s where Wills 4 Less Kent steps in.
We specialise in complete estate planning for individuals, families, and business owners offering clear, expert guidance during one of life’s most difficult times.
What Is Probate, Exactly?
Probate is the legal process of validating a person’s will and distributing their estate after death. If the deceased owned assets solely in their name without joint ownership or named beneficiaries, probate is usually required.
So, what is a Probate Kent? It's the process that helps manage and distribute a Kent resident's estate, ensuring everything is handled legally and efficiently, from debts to inheritance.
It’s not just paperwork. It’s a court-supervised process that includes:
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Confirming the executor
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Valuing the estate
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Paying off debts, taxes, and fees
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Distributing assets to heirs
And no, it’s not as quick as ticking a few boxes. Depending on the complexity, it can take months or in messier cases, years.
When Is Probate Required in Kent?
Probate is not always necessary.
If most assets were jointly held say, between spouses or assigned via named beneficiaries (like pensions or life insurance), those assets usually bypass probate entirely.
But in these situations, probate is required:
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The deceased held property or accounts solely in their name
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There is no will (called dying intestate)
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The will is contested
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The estate includes shares, complex investments, or a business
Still unsure? A 15-minute consultation with our team can help you figure out whether probate is needed no guesswork required.
What Happens During Probate in Kent?
Let’s paint the picture.
Your Aunt Margaret passed away. She left a will, but no one knows what to do next. That’s where probate begins.
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The Executor Steps In: Named in the will, the executor applies for a Grant of Probate. If there’s no will, the court appoints an administrator.
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Assets Are Identified and Valued: This includes bank accounts, property, investments, business interests even that vintage coin collection nobody knew she had.
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Debts and Taxes Are Paid: Yes, including inheritance tax, income tax, and outstanding bills. HMRC gets its slice before anyone else.
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Assets Are Distributed: Once debts are cleared and legal hurdles are crossed, the beneficiaries finally receive their inheritance.
Throughout this process, the executor must follow strict legal protocols. At Wills 4 Less, we support them every step of the way from completing probate applications to issuing letters of administration.
What Can Delay Probate?
Let’s not sugarcoat it—probate can drag.
Why? A few common culprits:
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Disputes between heirs (“Mum said the vase was mine!”)
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Missing or invalid wills
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Unclear estate valuations
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Overseas assets
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Inheritance tax complications
We help minimise these delays by preparing clear documentation and working directly with solicitors, probate registries, and tax advisors.
Is Probate Always Necessary?
Not always.
Some estates qualify for simplified procedures. For instance:
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If the estate is below a certain value
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If most assets were jointly owned
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If assets are held in a living trust or passed by survivorship
Want to know if your case qualifies for an exemption? Book a free consultation we’ll talk you through it.
Why Choose Wills 4 Less for Probate Kent?
Because you don’t want probate dragging out while you’re grieving, dealing with banks, and fending off arguments over who gets Dad’s record collection.
Here’s how we help:
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Expert Probate Advice – Decades of experience with simple and complex estates
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Personal Consultations – In-person, phone, or home visits available
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Support with Executors, Wills, and Inheritance Tax
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Transparent Fees – No hidden costs or confusing legal jargon
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Court & Legal Liaison – We deal with the probate registry, HMRC, and your solicitor
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England & Wales Coverage – Fully regulated, trusted, and accredited
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Let Us Take It from Here
Probate can feel like a minefield but you don’t have to walk it alone.
Whether you’re an executor unsure where to start, or a family member overwhelmed by the legalities, Wills 4 Less Kent is here to make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful.
“The trouble with the legal system,” as comedian George Carlin once said, “is that you need a lawyer to explain it to you.”
We’re that lawyer minus the overpriced suit and confusing Latin.
Ready to Get Started?
Book a free consultation today with one of our estate planning specialists.
Prefer a call-back? We’re happy to reach out at a time that works for you.
