The story of Bob Maddams (who has spent three difficult years trying to administer his late brother’s estate) shows just how quickly a well‑intentioned executor can become overwhelmed by legal and financial responsibilities they never expected to face, and how invaluable professional advice can be.
When Bob’s brother died, his estate seemed organised: several properties, a main residence, and clearly defined wishes. Yet the reality became a maze of frozen bank accounts, ongoing mortgages, insurance requirements, property complications, and an inheritance tax bill calculated on valuations that no longer reflected market reality. Like many executors, Bob found himself responsible for urgent financial obligations without the tools or experience to deal with them.
This is where a good solicitor can make a profound difference. We deal with these situations and support executors through them every day. We understand the rules, deadlines, and technicalities. We also understand the emotional toll the process can take. Rather than leaving executors “hanging in the wind”, a solicitor can provide a clear road map from the outset, explaining what needs to be done, when, and why. In Bob’s case for example, it might have been possible to consider submitting a claim for ‘loss relief’ to HMRC. If this type of claim is successful, HMRC recalculates the inheritance tax (and interest) due based upon the value that a property actually sells for (rather than its higher probate value). A solicitor can prepare the necessary legal and tax documentation (or check that the executor has done it correctly) and communicate with institutions on the executor’s behalf. Crucially, solicitors also help executors to protect themselves from personal liability, which is a genuine risk for executors lacking proper advice. Solicitors can also advise on the options where an executor may not wish to act in that role.
Yes, the estate administration process can sometimes feel disjointed, overly complex, and emotionally draining. But executors do not have to face this alone. Engaging an experienced solicitor can transform an overwhelming experience into a manageable one, bringing clarity, structure, and peace of mind.
