Probate
Probate Solicitors in Waterford
Guiding families through administering an estate, and helping you plan ahead.
Dealing with an estate after a death can feel overwhelming. Our legal team is experienced in probate and in Enduring Powers of Attorney, and we can also advise on tax in relation to the administration of an estate.
1995
Established in Waterford
Probate
Grants and administration
Tax
Advice on the estate
How probate works
Step 1
Will and executor
We locate the will and confirm who the executor is. If there is no will, we identify who is entitled to act.
Step 2
Value the estate
We gather details of the assets and debts, such as property, bank accounts, pensions and investments.
Step 3
Apply for the grant
We prepare the papers for the Probate Office and the Statement of Affairs that Revenue requires.
Step 4
Pay debts and tax
Once the grant issues, the executor can collect the assets. We help pay any debts, funeral costs and tax due.
Step 5
Distribute
We transfer property and pay out money to the beneficiaries, and prepare a final account for the executor.
Talk to us
Tell us briefly about the estate and we’ll come back to you, and explain the first steps.
Matters we deal with
01
Grants of Probate
Where there is a will, applying for the grant that allows the executor to deal with the estate.
02
Letters of Administration
Where there is no will, applying for the grant on behalf of the person entitled to act.
03
Administering the estate
Collecting assets, paying debts and distributing the estate to beneficiaries.
04
Tax on the estate
Advice on inheritance tax (CAT) for beneficiaries and other tax arising in the estate.
05
Estate property
Selling or transferring a house or land that forms part of the estate.
06
Enduring Powers of Attorney
Helping you plan ahead by choosing someone to make decisions for you if you lose capacity.
Frequently asked questions
How long does probate take?
It depends on the estate. Even a straightforward estate commonly takes around a year from the date of death, and estates with property to sell, tax issues or disputes can take longer.
What is the ‘executor’s year’?
An executor is not obliged to distribute the estate before the first anniversary of the death. This gives time to identify all assets and debts.
What if there is no will?
The estate is divided according to the Succession Act 1965, and a family member applies for a grant called Letters of Administration.
Do I need a solicitor for probate?
It’s not a legal requirement, and you can apply in person to the Probate Office. Most executors use a solicitor, especially where there is property, tax or more than one beneficiary.
Who pays the legal costs?
Legal costs of administering the estate are normally paid out of the estate, not by the executor personally.
How much will it cost?
Before we start, we’ll give you a written estimate of our fees and outlays, as solicitors are required to do.
Get in touch
Hegarty & Co. Solicitors
4 St Andrews Tce, Newtown, Waterford X91 YC43
Mon–Thu 9:00–5:30 · Fri 9:00–5:00
Sat by appointment · Closed 1:00–2:00 for lunch
Early morning and late evening appointments and home visits available.
Tel: 051 841 577
Email: info@hegartysolicitors.com
This page contains general information only and is not legal advice. Every case depends on its own facts.