When a loved one passes away, handling their estate is one of the most sensitive and complex tasks a person can face. In recent years, some people have opted to take on this responsibility themselves known as ‘DIY probate’. While this may seem like a cost-effective solution, it can be fraught with pitfalls, particularly when the deceased died intestate (without a valid will). A recent study indicates there has been 25% rise in DIY probate applications over the past year.
What Is DIY Probate?
DIY probate involves administering an estate without the help of a solicitor or professional. This includes gathering assets, managing any claims against the estate, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the estate to beneficiaries. For straightforward estates with a valid will and clear beneficiaries, this might be manageable, but the intestacy rules can make this much more complex.
Why Intestacy Makes DIY Probate Riskier
When there’s no will, the estate must be distributed according to the intestacy rules – a legal framework that doesn’t account for personal wishes or modern family dynamics.
Here’s where things often go wrong:
You Might Choose the Wrong Heirs – Without a will, it’s easy to make mistakes about who should inherit. If you give money to the wrong people, you could be held personally responsible.
The Paperwork Is Complicated – Applying for Letters of Administration involves completing detailed paperwork. Any errors or omissions can cause lengthy delays or outright rejections by the Probate Registry.
You Could Owe Taxes or Penalties – There are strict timeframes on tax forms being submitted on time. If they aren’t, there could be penalties and interest added incurring extra costs.
You’re Personally Responsible – Executors (or administrators) are personally liable if they distribute the estate incorrectly – even if it was an honest mistake. That includes miscalculating tax, paying the wrong people, or failing to settle debts.
Family Disputes Are More Likely – Without a will, family members may argue over who should get what. This can be stressful, and legal action can be expensive. Modern families are often more complicated than the law anticipates. Unmarried partners, stepchildren, and estranged relatives are not recognised under intestacy rules. This can lead to legal disputes – and serious emotional stress.
DIY probate might look like a way to save money, but when someone dies intestate, the legal, emotional, and financial risks can far outweigh any initial savings. A simple misstep could lead to costly consequences or even personal liability.
For more information about our estate administration service, please contact us on (0114) 218 4200 or speak to our Inheritance Tracing team.