5 Best UK Inheritance Solicitors in 2025
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According to the Solicitors Regulation Authority, in 2023 there were over 222,000 solicitors acting across the UK – with many of these having some degree of specialisation in inheritance matters.
Choosing the correct solicitor is essential to make sure everything runs smoothly, legally and efficiently. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which firm is the best fit for your needs – that’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top rated inheritance solicitors in the UK for 2025, based on their expertise, client feedback and Trustpilot reviews.
In this guide, we will also cover what to look for in an inheritance solicitor, including cost considerations, qualifications and the services they provide.
What should you look for in an Inheritance solicitor?
Choosing the right inheritance solicitor is important to ensuring a smooth probate process. Here are some of the key things to consider when selecting an inheritance solicitor:
Reasonable fees
Inheritance solicitor fees can vary depending on the charging structure they use:
Fixed fees: These provide cost certainty, as the solicitor evaluated your situation and agreed on a price upfront. This option is ideal for those who want a clear understanding of expenses from the start.
Hourly rates: Offers flexibility, where you pay for the time spent on your case. While this could be cheaper for simpler estates, it’s important to monitor progress to avoid unexpected expenses.
Ad Valorem fees: Less common today, these fees are similar to estate agent fees and are based on the estate’s value (up to 5% of property value). If used, ensure the structure is clearly explained and agreed upon beforehand.
Always confirm the fee agreement in writing and seek transparency about any additional charges. Discuss fees with executors and, if necessary, beneficiaries to avoid potential disputes.
Flexibility for simpler estates
If you are handling a smaller or less complex estate, consider solicitors who offer ‘unbundled’ services. This means they can handle specific tasks while allowing you to manage others. For example, you might prefer to oversee asset collection and leave legal paperwork to the solicitor.
Trust & familiarity
You may have an established relationship with a family solicitor who already understands your family's needs and the testator's intentions. While this can be advantageous, it’s still wise to:
Request a detailed quote.
Compare it with other solicitors to make sure you receive competitive and fair pricing.
Professional qualifications & expertise
Verify that your chosen solicitor specialises in probate and inheritance law. Look for the following credentials:
Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS) accreditation by the Law Society, indicating a high standard in this area of practice.
Membership in STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners), marked by the TEP designation, demonstrating expertise in trusts and estates.
If the estate involves international assets, choose a solicitor with experience in cross-border inheritance law to avoid complications and delays.
Ability to act as executor
Some solicitors may be named as executors in a will, either by the testator’s choice or necessity. If your solicitor is acting as an executor:
Confirm whether they will charge for executor duties or only for legal work.
Ensure you understand all associated costs and services.
Communication & transparency
Effective communication is critical in probate matters, you should look for solicitors who:
Provide clear updates on progress and costs.
Are transparent about their process and any potential issues that may arise.
Is an experienced solicitor better?
In most cases, hiring an experienced inheritance solicitor is a wise decision, especially when dealing with complicated inheritance matters. Their in-depth knowledge of probate laws and processes allows them to navigate the intricacies that less experienced solicitors might miss.
Experienced solicitors bring several advantages to the table, including the ability to handle challenging scenarios efficiently. They are adept at managing issues such as:
Resolving discrepancies in wills: Addressing inconsistencies or ambiguities in a will that could lead to disputes.
Managing claims against the estate: Handling challenges from creditors or contentious beneficiaries to protect the estate’s interests.
Coordinating with HMRC and other institutions: Ensuring accurate and timely submission of documents related to taxes, property or debts.
With years of practice, experienced inheritance solicitors often have a network of trusted professionals to consult, including tax advisors, surveyors and other legal experts.
While experience often ensures better outcomes, it usually comes at a higher price. Experienced solicitors may charge premium rates, with fees sometimes exceeding £300 per hour. For those managing straightforward estates, it may be worth considering solicitors with less experience but sufficient qualifications to handle simpler cases effectively.
What services do probate solicitors offer?
When someone passes away, their estate must be administered according to their Will or, in the absence of one, according to the law. This responsibility usually falls to the executor named in the will, or an administrator appointed in cases of intestacy.
Probate solicitors play a massive role in supporting executors and administrators, making sure that the process is handled efficiently, accurately and in compliance with the law.
Probate solicitors can assist with a wide range of tasks involved in estate administration, including but not limited to:
Applying for a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration
Preparing and filing all necessary documents with the Probate Registry to obtain legal authority to administer the estate.
Investigating and valuing the estate
Identifying and securing all estate assets, such as property, savings, investments and possessions.
Identifying and calculating any outstanding liabilities, such as debts or taxes.
Managing tax obligations
Preparing and filing Inheritance Tax and income tax returns.
Advising on and mitigating any Capital Gains Tax liabilities that arise during the estate administration.
Ensuring all taxes due are paid, including income tax owed at the date of death or incurred during the administration period.
Collecting & distributing estate assets
Collecting estate funds from bank accounts, investments, life insurance policies and other sources.
Settling outstanding bills and debts, including loans and utility payments.
Distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries in accordance with the will or the Rules of Intestacy.
Selling or transferring property
Handling the marketing and sale of the deceased’s property if required.
Managing the legal transfer of property ownership to beneficiaries if the property is retained.
Setting up and managing trusts
Creating and overseeing any trusts specified in the will.
Managing ongoing trust obligations, including compliance with legal requirements.
Resolving business or pension matters
Assisting with the valuation, sale, or transfer of any business interests.
Liaising with government or private pension providers to finalise entitlements.
Preparing final estate accounts
Compiling detailed estate accounts, documenting all assets, liabilities, payments and distributions.
Providing these accounts to the residuary beneficiaries for review and approval.
How can a specialist solicitor assist with the estate?
A specialist probate solicitor can provide invaluable support in handling complex estates, particularly in cases involving intestacy, contentious probate, or international assets – here’s how they can help:
Handling intestate estates
When there is no valid will, the estate is considered intestate, and the distribution of assets must follow legal rules; specialist solicitors can:
Identify eligible beneficiaries under the Rules of Intestacy.
Assist in obtaining a Grant of Letters of Administration, which gives the administrator legal authority to manage the estate.
Navigate complex family dynamics or disputes over inheritance.
Resolving contentious probate issues
Disputes over a will or estate distribution can delay the probate process and cause significant stress. In such cases, a specialist solicitor can:
Provide expert legal advice and mediation to resolve disputes amicably.
Represent clients in legal proceedings, ensuring their interests are protected.
Address claims against the estate, such as those from creditors or disgruntled beneficiaries.
Managing international assets
If the estate includes assets located outside the UK, such as property, investments, or bank accounts, cross border legal and tax issues can arise, specialist solicitors can:
Coordinate with foreign lawyers to ensure compliance with international probate laws.
Arrange for the re-sealing of a Grant of Probate in another jurisdiction if required.
Advise on tax obligations in multiple countries to avoid double taxation.
Are probate solicitors needed for complicated inheritance cases?
Probate solicitors are needed for complicated inheritance cases because they have the expertise to handle complicated cases with efficiency and accuracy.
Their knowledge of probate law, tax regulations and international processes ensures the estate is administered smoothly, minimising delays and potential legal complications. Whether the estate is straightforward or involves detailed legal challenges, a specialist solicitor’s guidance can provide peace of mind during a difficult time.
Which are the best inheritance solicitors in the UK for 2025?
Finding the right inheritance solicitor is important to ensuring smooth estate planning, probate or inheritance related legal processes. Below is a list of some of the top related inheritance solicitors in the UK, according to Trustpilot:
| Rank | Solicitors | Trustpilot reviews (/5) | Trustpilot total reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bishopsgate Law Ltd | 4.9 | 3,139 |
| 2 | Graysons Solicitors | 4.7 | 1,623 |
| 3 | Affinion Probate | 5 | 1,254 |
| 4 | MWQ Estate Planning | 4.8 | 785 |
| 5 | April King Legal | 4.7 | 728 |
*Accurate as of November 2024 - Best Inheritance Solicitors (Categorised on Trustpilot as Executor)
1. Bishopsgate Law Ltd
Bishopsgate law Ltd is a modern law firm offering comprehensive legal services for personal and commercial clients across the UK. With offices in London, Hertfordshire and Northampton, they specialise in conveyancing and property law.
Their national reach and expertise make them a reliable choice for property related legal matters.
Services include:
Residential and commercial conveyancing.
Probate and estate administration.
Commercial property law advice.
Property law and construction dispute resolution.
2. Graysons Solicitors
With nearly a century of experience, Graysons Solicitors is a well established law firm with a vibrant team of dedicated legal professionals. Known for their strong ethics and high standards, they are committed to providing a personal and excellent service.
Their combination of expertise and compassionate approach ensures a positive client experience.
Their services include:
Will, trust and Inheritance Tax planning.
Probate and administration of estates.
Bespoke legal advice tailored to individual client needs.
3. Affinion Probate
Affinion Probate offers tailored probate and estate administration services with a personal touch. They also provide free guidance on practical matters following a bereavement, making them a compassionate choice for families during difficult times.
Affinion's dedication to understanding each client’s needs sets them apart.
Their services are:
Probate and estate administration.
Bereavement support and guidance.
Personalised advice to suit individual situations.
4. MWQ Estate Planning
MWQ Estate Planning specialises in estate planning services, including wills, trusts, probate and deputyship. They offer competitive pricing and nationwide coverage, with their head office based in Cheshire.
Their expertise ensures seamless estate management for families and individuals.
Key services:
Wills and trusts.
Lasting Power of Attorney.
Probate and deputyship services.
Comprehensive estate planning solutions.
5. April King Legal
April King Legal focuses on wills designed to protect assets for future generations. With offices across England and Wales, they offer nationwide coverage through regional offices as well as online and direct services.
April King is a trusted name for those seeking forward-thinking estate planning.
Key services include:
Will drafting and estate planning.
Asset protection for future generations.
Online and in-person services.
Who is the top national probate law firm?
In April 2024, Irwin Mitchell was named the Best National Probate Law Firm at the Probate Industry Awards, and is often referred to as one of the leading UK probate solicitors. On Trustpilot, they have over 10,710 reviews, and have an ‘Excellent’ rating.
Irwin Mitchell offers a wide range of probate services, including estate administration, Inheritance Tax planning and contentious probate matters. Their expertise ensures that clients receive tailored advice and support throughout the probate process.
They have offices across the UK, including recent expansions in Nottingham and Brighton. And, they are committed to delivering personalised services, understanding each client’s unique circumstances and offering compassionate support during challenging times.
How much does a probate solicitor cost?
When it comes to probate, solicitor pricing will differ depending on the firm, with some offering fixed fees, and others offering hourly rates.
Some solicitors offer a fixed fee for straightforward probate services, ranging from £1,000 to £5,000, depending on the size or complexity of the estate. For more complex cases, solicitors may charge an hourly rate, which can range from £150 to £300 per hour, depending on their experience and location.
But, some solicitors may charge a percentage of the estate’s value (Ad Valorem), usually between 1% and 5% of the total estate. In order to ensure transparency, request a detailed quote upfront and confirm whether the solicitor charges a fixed fee or percentage.
Can you do the legals yourself?
Yes, you can handle probate legal matters yourself, which can be a cheaper way to manage the estate. DIY probate involves taking on all the administrative and legal tasks associated with estate management.
This can save on solicitor fees, which often range from £1,500 to £10,000, depending on the complexity of the estate. However, it requires meticulous attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the legal and tax obligations involved, including Inheritance Tax calculations and compliance with deadlines.
For individuals comfortable with legal terminology and confident in managing paperwork, handling probate independently for small, straightforward estates is a practical solution.
This said, probate can quickly become overwhelming if the estate is large, complex or involves disputes among beneficiaries. In such cases, seeking the advice of a solicitor or probate specialist is strongly recommended to avoid potential errors, legal liabilities or delays.
Can you use the same solicitor for inheritance & selling?
Yes, you can use the same solicitor for inheritance matters (such as probate) and selling a property, and in many cases, it can be advantageous to do so. Many solicitors who specialise in probate and inheritance law also offer conveyancing services, making them well-equipped to handle both aspects of managing an estate.
Benefits of using the same solicitor
Smooth process
Having one solicitor manage both inheritance and house sale can save time and reduce the need for repeated explanations or duplication of documents.
Consistency
A single solicitor will already have a comprehensive understanding of the estate, including its financial and legal status, making the sale process smoother.
Cost efficiency
Some solicitors may offer combined service packages for inheritance and property transactions, which could save money compared to hiring separate professionals.
Expertise in estate sales
Solicitors familiar with probate and inheritance are often experienced in selling inherited properties, which can involve specific legal considerations such as ensuring probate is granted before the sale.
When to consider separate solicitors
Specialisation needs
If the inherited estate involves complicated legal disputes, you might prefer a solicitor specialising in contentious probate, while another conveyancing specialist handles the sale.
Conflict of interest
If there are multiple executors or beneficiaries with differing options, a neutral solicitor may need to handle the house sale.
Regional expertise
For selling property in a specific location, a local conveyancer might offer additional insights into the market compared to a probate solicitor based elsewhere.
What's the best way to reduce the cost?
What could be better than avoiding conveyancing fees altogether? By selling your inherited property to The Property Buying Company, you can do just that! While we don’t cover probate costs, we take care of all selling and legal fees associated with our cash purchase of your property. This means you can save significantly and avoid the hassle of additional expenses during an already stressful time.
And the best part? We can buy your house in as little as 7 days, offering a fast and stress free solution. You won't have to ensure lengthy estate agent processes or worry about the risk of a sale falling through after the often time consuming probate process. With our reliable and efficient service, you can focus on what matters most while we handle the rest.
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