Wills & probate solicitors, Guildford
Explore how we can help with the legal protection and management of your wealth and assets.
Contact our teamHome / Services / Personal / Private wealth / Probate services /
At Moore Barlow our dedicated team of solicitors in Guildford specialise in wills and probate law. We understand that planning for the future can be a complex and sensitive process, which is why we are here to guide you through every step of the way.
Whether you need assistance with drafting a will, administering an estate, or navigating the complexities of probate, our experienced solicitors are here to provide you with expert advice and support.
We recognise the importance of ensuring that your loved ones are taken care of after you’re gone. Our wills and probate solicitors have a wealth of experience in helping individuals create legally binding wills that accurately reflect their wishes. We will work closely with you to understand your unique circumstances and tailor a will that safeguards your assets and ensures your loved ones are protected. Additionally, our team is well-equipped to assist with estate administration, guiding you through the probate process efficiently and compassionately during what can be an emotionally challenging time. With our expertise, you can have peace of mind knowing that your affairs will be handled with the utmost care and attention to detail.
What is wills and probate?
Wills and probate refers to the legal process of creating and executing a will, as well as handling the distribution of a person’s assets and settling their debts after they pass away. It involves ensuring that the deceased’s wishes are carried out and their estate is properly administered.
Why choose us?
At Moore Barlow our team of dedicated wills and probate solicitors in Guildford has the knowledge and expertise to guide you through the complexities of estate planning and probate matters. With our tailored approach, we prioritise your needs, ensuring your wishes are safeguarded and your loved ones protected. From drafting wills to administering estates, we provide comprehensive legal services backed by years of experience. Trust Moore Barlow to handle your Wills and Probate needs with compassion and professionalism.
Our team comprises experts who hold STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) accreditation, highlighting our dedication to the highest standards in estate planning and probate matters. We are also accredited by the Law Society’s Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS), which recognises our specialist expertise and adherence to best practices in dealing with will and probate services. Clients benefit from our access to a wide network of financial advisors and tax specialists, ensuring a fully rounded approach to estate administration. Unlike many firms, we provide a local, in-person service backed by regional knowledge and long-standing ties to the Guildford community, which guarantees a more personalised and responsive experience.
How we can help
Our experienced team of wills and probate solicitors in Guildford is dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support and guidance for a wide range of issues. We understand that dealing with matters related to wills and probate can be emotionally challenging and complex. Whether you require assistance with drafting a will, setting up a trust, or navigating the probate process, our solicitors have the expertise to handle your case with utmost care and professionalism. We strive to ensure your wishes are protected and ensure a smooth and efficient resolution to your legal matters. Trust our solicitors to provide tailored solutions and expert advice to meet your needs.
In addition to guiding clients through the probate process, we assist with obtaining the grant of probate or letters of administration, preparing detailed estate accounts, managing inheritance tax liabilities, and distributing assets in accordance with a will or intestacy rules. We also provide specialist support in resolving disputes between beneficiaries, handling foreign assets within estates, and advising executors on their legal duties and liabilities. Our services extend to deeds of variation, asset tracing, and evaluating complex estates that involve business or agricultural property relief claims, ensuring every detail is managed with accuracy and compliance.
Our team of private wealth solicitors
The probate timeline
One of the most common concerns individuals have is how long probate will take and what to expect at each stage. The process typically involves gathering information about the estate, applying for the grant of probate, settling any debts or taxes, and finally distributing the estate to beneficiaries. We keep our clients informed at every milestone and aim to streamline the process through proactive planning and timely communications.
Who we help
Our experienced solicitors in Guildford specialise in wills and probate matters, assisting individuals and families with estate planning, will drafting, probate administration, and inheritance disputes. We cater to clients from all walks of life, offering expert legal guidance tailored to their unique needs and circumstances.
We work with a wide range of clients including high-net-worth individuals, entrepreneurs, farming families, and business owners who require probate services with added financial or legal complexity. Our support is frequently sought by professionals in the legal, financial, and medical sectors, as well as expatriates with UK-based estates. We also cater to clients involved in family-run companies, those with charitable interests, and individuals managing trusts or multi-jurisdictional estates, providing tailored advice that reflects unique personal or commercial circumstances.
Contact us
Contact us today for all your wills and probate needs. Our team of experienced solicitors in Guildford is ready to assist you in making important legal decisions. Call us at 023 8071 8000 or email us to schedule a consultation. Let us guide you through the complexities of wills and probate law.
We have offices in London, Richmond, Southampton, Guildford, Lymington and Woking and offer specialist private wealth legal services to clients nationwide. Contact Moore Barlow to find out how we can help you and your family.
Contact our private wealth team
Frequently asked questions – Probate Services
What is probate and do I always need it?
Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. It involves proving the validity of a will and distributing assets according to the deceased’s wishes or the law if no will exists. Probate may not be required if the estate is small or assets are jointly owned and pass automatically to a surviving co-owner.
How long does the probate process take?
The timeline for probate can vary depending on the complexity of the estate. On average, straightforward cases take between 6–12 months to conclude. Delays can occur if there are disputes, foreign assets, or complex tax issues involved.
Who is responsible for applying for probate?
The responsibility lies with the executor named in the will. If there is no will, an administrator is appointed—usually a close relative. We can act on your behalf or support you in completing the application and managing the estate administration efficiently.
Is inheritance tax payable before probate is granted?
In many cases, inheritance tax must be paid, at least in part, before probate can be granted. We help assess the estate’s value, calculate the tax owed, and advise on how to fund payments without undue burden on beneficiaries.
Can you help with contentious probate issues?
Yes, we provide expert advice on contentious probate matters, including disputes over the validity of a will, challenges by dependents, and disagreements between executors and beneficiaries. Our experienced team works to resolve these cases as quickly and amicably as possible.
