Probate & Estate Administration

Simply put, probate and estate administration are the legal terms of the processes that take place to release the value of an estate when someone dies and who leaves property or possessions worth £5,000 or more. Many people are unaware that the limit is so low and that probate is needed whether or not a person has left a valid Will.

The deceased's possessions or money cannot be released to the beneficiaries unless everything is dealt with properly, with the necessary Government forms completed correctly. The person appointed to administer the estate and to carry out the deceased's wishes, called an 'Executor', is liable for any errors in completing these forms so it is crucial that expert legal help is sought in this regard.

The Executor is responsible for;
  • Collecting in the assets
  • Distributing the estate in accordance with the terms of the Will
  • Settling any liabilities
  • Proving the Will be obtaining a Grant of Probate from the High Court
The above tasks may seem daunting, which is where Symes Robinson & Lee are able to help. At what is already a difficult time, we can take care of all legal matters in a straightforward and efficient manner. If there is no Will or another solicitor wrote the Will, we are still able to help, and our dedicated Wills and probate teams will manage all of the legal and administrative complexity on your behalf making the whole process as simple and stress free as possible.

We offer a very competitively priced probate service and are happy to discuss your needs on an individual basis with no obligation. Prior to the commencement of any work, we will outline our fees so that you know how much it will cost, with no hidden or extra charges.


For more infomation please contact one of the following:

Name Position Office
Jeremy Lee Senior Partner Exeter
Don Middlemost Partner Budleigh Salterton
Naomi Woods Assistant Solicitor Crediton
Lisa Manning Probate Executive Budleigh Salterton
Emma Gray Assistant Solicitor Exeter
Jenny Slater Solicitor Crediton


Lexcel Law Society


Conveyancing Quality, Accredited Law Society