Probate Service

Applying for probate can be both complex and emotionally difficult following the loss of a loved one.

At Whitehead & Howarth, we understand this and aim to provide clear, compassionate support from professionals you may already know and trust.

We are licensed by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales to provide the reserved legal service of non-contentious probate in England and Wales.

Why Our Clients Choose Whitehead & Howarth Charted Accountants?

  • Nearly 100 years of trusted accountancy expertise.
  • Tailored financial solutions for SMEs.
  • Highly qualified and experienced professionals.
  • Transparent, fixed-fee pricing with no hidden costs.
  • Comprehensive support beyond traditional accountancy.

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What we offer

We provide a free initial consultation to discuss your situation and explain how we can help. Depending on the size and complexity of the estate, our services may include:

  • Applying for, or assisting with, the Grant of Probate
  • Identifying estate assets and liabilities
  • Liaising with banks, investment providers, and other third parties
  • Collecting and valuing estate assets
  • Calculating inheritance tax and preparing relevant reports
  • Advising and supporting executors
  • Preparing estate accounts
  • Distributing assets to beneficiaries

Timescales vary depending on the complexity of the estate. Straightforward cases may take around 4–6 months, while more complex estates can take longer.

Clear communication with executors is key to achieving a smooth outcome.

Fees

Your initial consultation is free. After understanding your requirements, we will provide a clear quote before any work begins. Fees can be agreed on a fixed-price basis or calculated according to time spent by our team.

Straightforward estates typically involve advising executors, preparing probate applications, and completing inheritance tax forms, while more complex estates will require additional work.

Complaints Procedure

We are committed to providing the highest level of service. If you are unhappy at any stage, please contact us so we can resolve the issue quickly. If a complaint cannot be resolved internally, you may contact the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.

If you are still not satisfied, you can ask the Legal Ombudsman to review the matter independently.

Probate Compensation Scheme

As an ICAEW-accredited probate firm, clients may be eligible to claim compensation in cases of fraud, dishonesty, or failure to account for funds by an accredited firm or employee, subject to scheme rules and time limits.

For trusted guidance during a difficult time, our team is here to support you with professionalism, care, and clarity.

We go the extra mile for our clients

We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service to our clients, and we work tirelessly to ensure our Google Reviews reflect the high standards we uphold. Take a look at our reviews to see first-hand recommendations from our valued clients about their experience with the outstanding support and expertise we provide.

Fancy a chat?

To arrange a free, no-obligation chat to see how we can help you just fill out the form or click the link below.

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