What to Do When Someone Dies: A Practical Guide to Probate, Estates and Next Steps (UK)

£2.99

The death of a loved one can be one of the most difficult experiences a person faces. Alongside grief and bereavement, individuals are often required to navigate unfamiliar legal and administrative processes with little prior knowledge or support.

This practical legal information guide has been designed to provide a clear, structured overview of the steps commonly involved following a death in the United Kingdom. Written in accessible language, the guide aims to help individuals better understand the processes surrounding probate, estate administration, documentation requirements, and available support services.

This guide includes:

  • A step-by-step overview of the legal and administrative process following a death

  • Immediate priority actions and practical checklists

  • Typical timelines for probate and estate administration

  • Guidance on locating wills and identifying executors

  • An overview of estate assets, liabilities, and probate requirements

  • Common issues and delays encountered during estate administration

  • Explanations of key legal terminology in plain English

  • Signposting to official resources and support services

  • A practical summary checklist to assist with organisation and planning

Suitable for:

  • Family members

  • Executors

  • Beneficiaries

  • Carers

  • Individuals assisting with funeral and estate arrangements

This publication is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

The Unlikely Lawyer – Practical Legal Information Guide No. 001

Publication Details

  • Series: The Unlikely Lawyer – Practical Legal Information Guides

  • Reference: TUL-PLIG-001

  • Version: 1.0

  • Published: July 2026

  • Format: Digital PDF Download

The death of a loved one can be one of the most difficult experiences a person faces. Alongside grief and bereavement, individuals are often required to navigate unfamiliar legal and administrative processes with little prior knowledge or support.

This practical legal information guide has been designed to provide a clear, structured overview of the steps commonly involved following a death in the United Kingdom. Written in accessible language, the guide aims to help individuals better understand the processes surrounding probate, estate administration, documentation requirements, and available support services.

This guide includes:

  • A step-by-step overview of the legal and administrative process following a death

  • Immediate priority actions and practical checklists

  • Typical timelines for probate and estate administration

  • Guidance on locating wills and identifying executors

  • An overview of estate assets, liabilities, and probate requirements

  • Common issues and delays encountered during estate administration

  • Explanations of key legal terminology in plain English

  • Signposting to official resources and support services

  • A practical summary checklist to assist with organisation and planning

Suitable for:

  • Family members

  • Executors

  • Beneficiaries

  • Carers

  • Individuals assisting with funeral and estate arrangements

This publication is intended for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

The Unlikely Lawyer – Practical Legal Information Guide No. 001

Publication Details

  • Series: The Unlikely Lawyer – Practical Legal Information Guides

  • Reference: TUL-PLIG-001

  • Version: 1.0

  • Published: July 2026

  • Format: Digital PDF Download