International Probate

When dealing with international probate cases, bereaved families will often have to navigate through different laws in various jurisdictions, some of which will have conflicting rules. International probate cases can cause additional stress and delays at what is already a difficult time.

At Myerson, our international probate lawyers can advise families on the complexities of dealing with an estate where there are assets in more than one country and probate is required in the UK and abroad.

The probate process will differ depending on where the Deceased was domiciled, where the owned assets are, and perhaps the Wills that are in place.

Our specialist probate team are experts in dealing with international probate matters and international estate planning.

You can be assured that you will receive quality legal advice from STEP-qualified solicitors.

Our recent foreign asset and estate administration experience includes:

• Dealing with the estate of a Dutch national who died domiciled in the UK but with Dutch assets in excess of £1 million.
• Dealing with the estate of a British person who died domiciled in Spain but with assets in Spain and England.
• Advising on domicile and the UK inheritance tax position where the Deceased had moved around different jurisdictions throughout his life.
• Obtaining a grant of probate to collect an investment portfolio in Jersey.
• Obtaining a grant of probate for a person domiciled in Israel, collecting the UK assets, and discharging debts.
• Advising a client whose domicile of origin is India as to whether he has acquired a domicile of choice in the UK whilst currently living in another country with assets in several different countries, which include property and the application of Inheritance Tax rules.
• Collecting assets in the UK and Malta for a person who died domiciled in Cyprus.
• Resealing a grant and closing accounts for a person who was a Ugandan national.
• Applying for a grant of probate for an American executor to collect assets in the UK to administer in accordance with an American trust.
• Resealing an Australian grant of representation in the UK.
• Applying for a grant and collecting a death in service from the NHS for an Italian-domiciled person.

• Recognised Expertise:  Myerson’s Private Wealth sector proudly holds a Band 2 ranking in the Chambers and Partners High Net Worth Guide, alongside being consistently recognised as a Top Tier law firm by The Legal 500 for the past seven years. As one of the Top 200 UK law firms, Myerson provides exceptional Wills, Trusts, and Probate legal expertise. 

• Qualified Professionals: Our team holds additional qualifications in trust administration and tax regimes for trusts, along with the prestigious STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners) qualification. We have extensive experience setting up and managing live trusts, ensuring we understand the practicalities of trust operation and drafting. 

• Comprehensive Support: We provide tailored advice that respects each client's unique circumstances and understands the emotional weight of estate matters. Our solicitors handle sensitive situations with care, offering support throughout the process. 

• Holistic Approach: Our holistic strategy allows us to identify tax-saving opportunities and mitigate unexpected liabilities. We ensure clients comprehend the purpose and functioning of trusts, providing city-quality advice at regional prices. 

• Partner-Led Service: Our partner-led approach guarantees the best legal advice and commercially minded support. We collaborate with family and property law teams, delivering a comprehensive service that addresses all aspects of estate management. 

• Specialist Expertise: Our highly ranked team in The Legal 500 and Chambers for personal tax, trusts, and probate works closely with our contested wills solicitors to provide expert advice tailored to your needs. 

• Recognised Leaders: Bik-ki Wong, Head of our Private Client team, has been recognised as one of the top influential private wealth lawyers in Manchester (2023) by Business Today and as one of the best probate and wills lawyers for high-net-worth individuals in the UK (2023) by Spear's. 

• Extensive Network: Through our UK200 Group membership, we have strong connections to Independent Financial Advisers (IFAs) and tax advisers, offering comprehensive support tailored to your specific requirements. 

• Catering to Diverse Needs: Our team includes fluent Cantonese speakers, ensuring effective communication and understanding in managing estates. 

• Look at the Myerson Promise for further benefits of working with us here.