This strategy outlines comprehensive probate services for deceased individuals who left a will, focusing on three main components. The first component is the verification of the will's authenticity. It includes steps such as obtaining the original will from the executor, checking its validity with the solicitor, and ensuring it's the most recent version. This process is crucial to prevent disputes and guarantee the correct execution of the deceased's wishes.
The second component involves administering the estate as per the will's instructions. It requires coordination with the executor to create an inventory of assets, apply for a grant of probate, notify beneficiaries, and manage asset distribution. Settling debts and addressing tax issues are also vital to ensure the estate is administered legally and efficiently.
The final component offers ongoing support and communication. Establishing a dedicated contact for the executor and providing regular updates ensures transparency and trust. This phase also involves handling inquiries and disputes, potentially providing counselling services, and adjusting processes based on feedback for continuous improvement.
The strategies
⛳️ Strategy 1: Verify the authenticity of the will
- Request the original will from the executor
- Examine the will for signatures and witness information
- Conduct a validation check with the solicitor who drafted the will
- Confirm the will is the most recent version
- Check for any codicils or amendments attached to the will
- Liaise with the probate registry for any required validation
- Verify executor details and their willingness to act
- Ensure the will complies with legal requirements
- Investigate any potential claims against the estate
- Document all validations and findings in a report
⛳️ Strategy 2: Administer the estate as per the will
- Initiate contact with the executor and provide guidance
- Compile a detailed inventory of the deceased's assets and liabilities
- Apply for the grant of probate from the probate registry
- Notify all beneficiaries of their entitlements
- Organise asset valuation and manage asset distribution
- Settle any liabilities or debts of the estate
- Address any inheritance tax or other tax liabilities
- Coordinate the distribution of personal effects per instructions
- Provide interim and final estate accounts to the executor
- Close the estate once all distributions are complete
⛳️ Strategy 3: Offer ongoing support and communication
- Establish a dedicated point of contact for the executor
- Schedule regular updates on probate progress
- Create a timeline for key milestones and communicate this
- Respond to any inquiries from beneficiaries promptly
- Facilitate meetings or video calls when needed
- Discuss any concerns or disputes with legal advisors
- Provide external counselling or support services for affected parties
- Assess feedback and adjust procedures for better service
- Compile a final report summarising the completed probate process
- Seek client testimonials and recommendations post completion
Bringing accountability to your strategy
It's one thing to have a plan, it's another to stick to it. We hope that the examples above will help you get started with your own strategy, but we also know that it's easy to get lost in the day-to-day effort.
That's why we built Tability: to help you track your progress, keep your team aligned, and make sure you're always moving in the right direction.
Give it a try and see how it can help you bring accountability to your strategy.
