Why Working with Garner & Hancock Brings Peace of Mind in Probate

Losing a loved one is never easy. Amid grief, families are often faced with the practical task of managing an estate, a process known as probate. It’s a legal responsibility that can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions are raw and clarity is needed most.

While some choose to handle probate themselves, it’s important to understand what’s involved. Engaging a solicitor doesn’t just mean ticking legal boxes, it means lifting a burden, avoiding costly mistakes, and ensuring everything is done with care and precision.
At Garner & Hancock, we’ve been guiding families through wills, probate, and estate planning since 1882. We understand the emotional and practical challenges that come with loss. Our role is to make sure everything is handled properly, so you can focus on what truly matters: honouring your loved one and supporting those around you.

The Benefits of Working with a Solicitor for Probate

• Expertise & Accuracy: Our solicitors are trained to manage complex estates, ensuring that inheritance tax, debts, and distributions are handled correctly.
• Reduced Stress:  Probate can be lengthy and emotionally draining. We take on the administrative burden, giving families space to grieve and heal.
• Handling Complex Estates:  From inheritance tax, trusts and businesses to foreign property and cross-border tax issues, our team has the experience to navigate even the most complicated estates.
• Dispute Resolution:  Family disagreements can arise during probate. We mediate with sensitivity and protect executors from claims and disputes.
• Legal Protection:  As regulated solicitors, we carry professional insurance—meaning you’re covered if complications occur.
• Tax Guidance:  We ensure inheritance tax and other liabilities are calculated and paid correctly, avoiding costly HMRC penalties.

When a Solicitor Is Most Useful

You may particularly benefit from engaging Garner & Hancock if:

• The estate value exceeds the inheritance tax threshold of £325,000.
• The deceased owned property abroad or had complex business/trust assets
• Family disputes or unclear wills are expected
• The estate is insolvent or heavily indebted
• Executors feel overwhelmed or lack time to manage the process

Key Dangers of Doing Probate Yourself

• Misinterpreting the Will – Complex clauses can lead to incorrect distributions and disputes
• Tax Errors – Mistakes in inheritance or capital gains tax can result in penalties and investigations
• Trusts in Wills – Mishandling trusts can cause serious financial consequences for beneficiaries
• Personal Liability – Executors are personally responsible for errors in debt repayment or asset distribution
• Family Disputes – DIY probate lacks neutrality, often sparking conflict
• Hidden Complexities – Foreign property, business assets, or unclear ownership can overwhelm non-professionals
• False Economy – Avoiding solicitor fees may cost more later if mistakes cause delays or losses

Why Garner & Hancock?

With over a century of experience, Garner & Hancock combines legal expertise with compassion. We don’t just process paperwork, we provide reassurance, clarity, and peace of mind. Our clients often say that working with us makes everything feel “hunky dory,” because they know their loved one’s estate is in safe hands.

Final Thought

Every family deserves support during difficult times. DIY probate is never advisable. If you believe that your task is straightforward, contact us for consultation. If you believe that there is a lot to deal with, contact us for assistance with the probate administration. We will work with you and always let you know what the likely costs will be. With Garner & Hancock, you’re not just hiring a lawyer, you’re partnering with a trusted team that’s been supporting families for generations.