By Jess Chappell, Trainee Solicitor
Dealing with the Estate of a loved one is never easy. At a time when families are grieving, executors and beneficiaries must also navigate the legal, financial, and practical challenges of winding up an estate. Mistakes or poor advice can cause unnecessary stress, delays, and even legal disputes.
This is why choosing reputable, licensed professionals is vital. From solicitors and accountants to clearance companies and valuers, every third party involved in the probate process plays an important role in protecting the estate and ensuring it is managed properly.
At McHale & Co, we understand how overwhelming probate can be. As a full-service law firm, we not only handle probate and estate administration but also offer specialist support in related areas such as family law, and contentious probate disputes. Our role is to guide you through every step, coordinating with trusted professionals to make the process as smooth as possible.
The Duties of an Executor – and Why Professional Support Matters
Being named an executor is a significant responsibility. Executors must:
- Identify and value all assets.
- Settle debts and taxes.
- Distribute the estate correctly under the will or intestacy rules.
- Keep accurate records and act in the best interests of the beneficiaries.
What many people don’t realise is that executors can be held personally liable if mistakes are made. Common risks include:
- Filing incorrect inheritance tax returns, leading to HMRC penalties.
- Undervaluing property, investments, or personal possessions.
- Distributing assets too early, before debts or claims are settled.
- Using unlicensed businesses that mishandle assets or breach regulations.
At McHale & Co, we work alongside executors to ensure their duties are carried out properly – no matter the size of the estate. While the executor remains legally responsible, our support mitigates the risk of personal liability by ensuring every step is compliant, accurate, and well-documented.
Why Probate Demands Professionalism
Probate is not just a formality; it is a legal responsibility. Executors and families must ensure the estate is managed correctly, or risk delays, disputes, and financial consequences. Working with reputable, licensed businesses protects both the estate and those responsible for administering it.
Key Professionals Involved in Probate
Solicitors and Probate Specialists
A solicitor is often the cornerstone of the probate process. At McHale & Co, we ensure probate is granted efficiently, assets are distributed correctly, and legal obligations are met. Where disputes arise, such as challenges to a will, we also have a dedicated Litigation team that can assist in ensuring your interests are protected.
Accountants and Tax Specialists
Licensed accountants and tax advisers ensure the estate’s accounts are accurate and that inheritance tax, income tax, or capital gains tax are dealt with properly thus removing the risk of any financial penalties. For complex estates, we work alongside tax specialists to minimise risk and ensure full compliance.
Estate Agents, Surveyors, and Valuers
Properties are often the most significant asset in an estate. Licensed estate agents, RICS surveyors, and professional valuers provide accurate valuations, handle sales, and ensure beneficiaries receive fair value. For high-value items such as antiques, jewellery, or art, we also engage auctioneers and chartered valuers for accurate values.
Removal, Clearance, and Specialist Cleaners
Clearing a property is often one of the most emotional aspects of probate. Licensed clearance firms and specialist cleaners provide respectful, legal disposal of items, while ensuring valuable possessions are preserved. This avoids the risks of fly-tipping or loss of estate assets.
Insurance and Security Providers
Vacant properties are vulnerable. Insurance brokers and locksmiths help executors maintain adequate cover and secure properties during administration, protecting both the estate and beneficiaries.
Genealogists and Heir Hunters
In cases where beneficiaries are unknown or distant relatives need to be traced, genealogists provide invaluable expertise. Using unverified sources risks mistakes and disputes – another reason why only reputable professionals should be used.
How McHale & Co Can Help
As a full-service legal firm, McHale & Co is uniquely positioned to handle not just probate but the wider issues that often arise:
Probate & Estate Administration – guiding executors from start to finish.
Executor Support – ensuring duties are carried out correctly and mitigating personal liability risks.
Contentious Probate – resolving disputes over wills, trusts, or inheritance.
Family Law – supporting families where probate intersects with divorce, guardianship, or child matters.
Property & Conveyancing – managing sales and transfers of estate property.
Tax & Business Support – working with trusted accountants and specialists to resolve financial complexities.
By bringing these services together under one roof, we provide a single point of contact saving you time, stress, and cost.
Final thoughts
Probate is about more than paperwork; it’s about safeguarding a loved one’s legacy. Executors carry serious responsibilities and risks, but with the right support, those duties can be managed smoothly and with confidence.
At McHale & Co, we pride ourselves on being more than just probate solicitors. Our full-service approach means we can support you not only through probate itself, but also through any wider legal issues that can arise.
Choosing the right professionals is one of the most important decisions you will make as an executor or beneficiary. With McHale & Co by your side, you can be confident that every detail will be handled with care, expertise, and respect. Get in touch with us today on 0161 928 3848 or email mch@mchaleandco.co.uk to find out more about our full- service approach.
