Date published: 18.04.2025
This article is a comprehensive guide for individuals who need to deal with inheritance in the United Kingdom. It explains the probate process, deadlines, inheritance tax, and the legal consequences of delays. Special attention is given to the benefits of contacting qualified lawyers via the Consultant legal platform.
What is probate and why is it needed?
Probate is the legal authorization confirming the right of a person to manage the deceased’s estate. If a will was left, this person is called the executor; if not — the heir by law becomes the administrator.
The probate procedure is not just about legal formalities. It protects heirs’ rights, ensures debt repayment and proper asset distribution.
Main stages of the inheritance process in the UK
- Obtaining the death certificate.
Issued by the local registrar. - Locating and verifying the will.
If a will exists — it must be found (in a bank, with a solicitor or in the registry). - Valuing the estate
The estate’s value is assessed, including: bank accounts, real estate, shares, pensions, personal belongings - Calculating and paying inheritance tax. Threshold: £325,000. Rate: 40% on the excess. Pre-payment is often required before probate is granted
- Applying to the probate registry.
Can be done online or through a solicitor. With a will — a Grant of Probate is issued, without a will — Letters of Administration. - Receiving permission to manage the estate.
The document is issued within 4–16 weeks (depending on completeness of the application). - Distribution of assets.
Assets are distributed after debts, taxes and court costs are settled.
What if the heir doesn’t come forward within 6 months?
This is a critical point. Although there is no official deadline for probate, a 6-month period applies:
- To submit the inheritance tax declaration (form IHT)
- To confirm inheritance rights without complications
In case of delay:
- Other relatives may apply first
- The estate may be transferred to the Crown (Bona Vacantia process)
- You will have to legally prove your right — a difficult, lengthy and costly process
Delaying means risking the loss of inheritance.
Trust professionals with the process
In many cases, inheritance processing is emotionally and legally complex. Especially for Ukrainian or other foreign nationals unfamiliar with UK law.
That’s why on the Consultant platform we recommend contacting our lawyers without delay.
Why choose the Consultant platform?
- Specialization in UK law and working with foreigners
- Free initial consultation
- Online document preparation without office visits
- Support in Ukrainian and Russian
- Fast probate processing with minimal effort from your side
- Full case support until inheritance is received
Tips to avoid problems:
- Prepare all documents before applying: death certificate, will, bank letters
- If there is a dispute between heirs — contact a solicitor only
- Do not ignore the tax — HMRC has authority to collect and fine
- Don’t wait “for someone else to do it” — being proactive is key
Handling inheritance in the UK is not just a formality. It is a complex, regulated process where delays or mistakes can cost you your assets. If you don’t apply within 6 months — you may lose your right or spend months proving your claim.
That’s why we recommend:
Don’t take the risk alone. Contact the lawyers on the Consultant platform — we’ll handle the entire process, prepare documents online, and help you secure your inheritance quickly and stress-free.
