circle circle
 Administering an estate solicitors

Administering an estate solicitors

When a person dies, someone has to deal with their affairs. This is called ‘administering the estate’ or ‘executry administration’.

Overview

Executry administration & winding up an estate in Scotland

Our experienced and approachable team, including experienced executry solicitors, can take care of all matters arising from the death of a family member or friend in a sympathetic, speedy and efficient manner. Dealing with a family bereavement can be an extremely traumatic experience and it can be difficult to cope with the administrative task of winding up an estate at such an emotional time.

We can make the process as simple and straightforward as possible, helping to ease the burden on family members and friends.

The estate administration process

When a person dies, someone has to deal with their affairs. This is called ‘administering the estate’ or ‘executry administration’.

We can act as the estate administrator on behalf of the deceased and their Executor.

Responsibilities include:

  • Arranging for an independent valuation of the assets
  • Dealing with assets outwith the United Kingdom
  • Fulfilling the wishes expressed in the Will including contacting the named beneficiaries
  • Liaising with HM Revenue & Customs regarding any Income Tax, Capital Gains Tax and Inheritance Tax
  • Obtaining Confirmation (the Scottish near-equivalent of Probate)
  • Transferring assets to the beneficiaries
  • Arranging for the payment of any debts (including mortgages)
  • Dealing with any legal rights claims on the estate
  • Gathering & protecting the assets of the estate
  • Preparing deeds of variation
  • Settling the estate
  • Setting up and administering trusts

FAQS

Common questions about winding up an estate

Who is responsible for the Executry Administration?

Answer

In Scotland, the responsibility for Executry Administration falls to the executor, either designated in the deceased’s Will or appointed by the court in cases of intestacy. This role, often assumed by a family member or a professional such as an executry solicitor, involves managing all aspects of estate administration work, including obtaining confirmation, handling bank accounts, property, debts, and filing necessary inheritance tax forms.

Executry lawyers and law accountants assist executors in navigating these complex tasks, particularly in managing large estates or where the executor lacks experience. An initial meeting with an experienced solicitor is crucial for understanding the process, duties involved, and ensuring a legally compliant administration of the loved one’s estate.

What is Executry Administration?

Answer

When a person dies their estate (which includes the person’s property, money and possessions) must be ingathered and distributed. This is called ‘administering the estate’ or Executry Administration.

Executry Administration in Scotland involves an executor – often aided by a solicitor -managing and distributing a deceased’s estate, including property, bank accounts, and debts. This process entails obtaining ‘Confirmation’ from the court, valuing the estate, and dealing with complexities like inheritance tax forms, especially in large estates. Executry solicitors work closely with executors and family members, ensuring the administration of the estate is respectful, legally compliant, and in line with the deceased’s wishes, handling necessary documentation like tax returns and providing essential advice throughout the process.

What happens during an Executry administration?

Answer

The first stage is to gather precise details of the deceased’s assets and liabilities. The next step is to prepare an inventory of the assets and liabilities, which inventory is then submitted to the Court in order to obtain Confirmation. Thereafter, the Executor must settle any outstanding liabilities before distributing the deceased’s estate in terms of their Will, or if there isn’t one, in terms of the laws of intestacy.

What is Confirmation?

Answer

Confirmation is a legal document issued by the Sheriff Court, also commonly known as probate. It gives the Executor authority to uplift money and other property belonging to a deceased person from the holder (i.e. a bank) and to administer and distribute it.

Can the Executor obtain help with the administration?

Answer

Yes, if the Executor does not want to carry out their duties personally they can instruct a solicitor to act on their behalf. This is often advisable, particularly in more complex estates.

In Scotland, an executor appointed to manage a deceased’s estate can enlist the help of solicitors or a law accountant for the executry administration process. These professionals ensure accurate assessment and efficient management of the estate. Executry solicitors can provide guidance through each step of the process, from valuing the estate to distributing assets to beneficiaries.

How long does it take to administer the estate?

Answer

The time taken to administer the estate varies and depends on the type and nature of the estate. The general rule is that an estate should not be wound up in the first six months following the death. However, more complex estates can take longer to deal with.

How much does it cost?

Answer

The cost of administering an estate again varies depending on the size and nature of the estate. To ensure that a fair and reasonable fee is charged we arrange for our files to be independently assessed by a Law Accountant.

Who benefits from the deceased’s estate?

Answer

If the deceased died leaving a Will (testate) they will have nominated who they would like to benefit from their estate. If the deceased died without leaving a Will (intestate), however, their estate will be distributed in terms of the laws of intestacy.

Testimonials

Pamela Niven advises on wills and tax matters. Niven is head of private client asset protection and tax at Harper Macleod and is experienced in tax and succession planning matters. “Pamela is absolutely fantastic. She is thorough, commercial and very client-focused.” “Pamela is very good. She is very thorough, collaborative and technical. She is able to come to each matter with a solution- and client-first approach. I would recommend her without any hesitation.”

– Chambers and Partners, High Net Worth Guide 2024

Lindsay MacEwen is a senior associate within the firm’s private client practice. MacEwen has expertise in all aspects of private client law, with a particular focus on trusts and landed estates. “Lindsay is very technically able, competent and always willing to go the extra mile for her clients.” “Lindsay is easy to deal with and has very sound knowledge that I trust implicitly.” “She is highly professional and very knowledgeable. She is exceptional.”

– Chambers and Partners, High Net Worth Guide 2024

“The team at Harper Macleod has a great depth in knowledge when it comes to private client matters.”

– Chambers and Partners, High Net Worth Guide 2024

“They provided excellent advice and professionalism. The team has a timeous and professional attitude with a strong focus on client service and satisfaction.”

– Chambers and Partners, High Net Worth Guide 2024

“We have been kept well advised on the process and options throughout the executory process. From what we have experienced, the support has been excellent.”

– Chambers and Partners, High Net Worth Guide 2024

“I would like to thank you for everything that your service provided during such a difficult time in my life and will be recommending your services to others.”

– HM CLIENT

“Really pleased with service and would recommend Harper Macleod to others.”

– HM CLIENT

/

CONTACT US

Glasgow Edinburgh Inverness Elgin Thurso Shetland
Get in touch

Call us for free on 0330 159 5555 or complete our online form below to submit your enquiry or arrange a call back.

Speak to us today on 0330 159 5555

Get in touch

CONTACT US

Get in touch

Call us for free on 0330 159 5555 or complete our online form below to submit your enquiry or arrange a call back.