When dealing with probate cases involving international elements, bereaved families will often have to navigate different laws across jurisdictions, some of which may conflict. International probate cases can cause additional stress and delays at what is already a difficult time.
At Myerson, our 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 Services
Our probate solicitors can advise on the concept of long-term residence (previously domicile), which is complicated and goes beyond where someone lives and works. In some cases, where there is more than one Will, we can advise on which Will covers what assets.
Obtaining and resealing grants of representation:
Our solicitors can obtain a UK grant of representation where required.
If a grant has been acquired in a commonwealth jurisdiction already, but there are UK assets, then we can reseal an existing foreign grant in the UK.
Assets held abroad:
Each jurisdiction has its own rules for dealing with assets. Some jurisdictions have different succession laws, which can override what is in a person’s Will. It is, therefore, important to obtain expert advice in that jurisdiction for any foreign assets in an international estate.
Our solicitors often work with experts in different jurisdictions. We have contacts with foreign lawyers worldwide through MSI Global Alliance and STEP (Society of Trusts and Estates Practitioners) who can assist.
If you appoint us in your international probate matter, our dedicated team will be your point of contact to coordinate the entire process.
Our probate lawyers can manage the estate administration, liaising with other professionals where necessary, and we will keep you updated on the progress of your matter.
We can also organise the notarising and translating documents so that matters documents can be used abroad.
Advising on long-term residence (previously the concept of domicile) and dealing with estates for non-residents:
Long-term residence is important when dealing with international estates, and it will change the nature of our advice.
Where the Deceased is not a long-term resident, even if the assets in the UK are modest if a grant is required, the full Inheritance Tax return must be completed, including the supplemental pages relating to foreign domicile.
Our solicitors understand the information that HMRC seeks in these international estate cases, and we can put together the claim for foreign domicile for the family.
The tax position is different depending on the long-term residence status of the Deceased. We can advise on the inheritance rules that apply to your foreign assets based on the specific circumstances.
Our Approach to International Probate
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.
Why Choose Myerson's Wills, Trusts, and Probate Team?
- 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.
- With our MSI Global Alliance Membership, we can connect you to trusted advisers in 100+ countries who can provide international legal advice for individuals and families.
- Look at the Myerson Promise for further benefits of working with us here.
Testimonials
Mrs & Mr Wells
Laura Willis was very professional and dedicated a great deal of time to preparing our wills. Overall, we felt we were truly getting our money’s worth.
Mrs & Mr Brighouse
Hannah Owens really understood our requirements. She explained various options, including the use of trusts, and had a deep understanding of the issues & tax legislation. She was very easy to talk to.
Mr. A
I dealt with Hannah Owens and she was extremely helpful and professional. As a result, I would have no hesitation in recommending your firm to my friends if they required legal advice.
Mr. Fox
Ben kept me informed at all times. He dealt with my case in a quick and professional manner.
Mr Staples
Outstanding service from Aalia Ijaz and her team. I would recommend Myerson 100%.
Mr Lee
Ever since appointing Myerson, I have received the best of advice and action on matters of great concern to my family.
Mr Barker
Having dealt with many lawyers over the years, it was refreshing to find Myerson who were professional, prompt, courteous, along with going the extra mile for their clients. Very impressive. Thank you.
Mr Gough
Great staff and all conducted in an informative and constructive way. Nice new office which created the right atmosphere for my visits.
Mr. Frame
Myerson were extremely helpful in liaising with me to submit an application to the Court of Protection. The solicitor was very knowledgeable and efficient in obtaining the required information and processing the paperwork in a timely manner. I am delighted with the standard of the work.
Legal 500, 2024
Approachable, knowledgeable and competent.
Heather
Laura undertook to complete the distribution of my husband's will since my previous solicitor was unable to do it. A difficulty had arisen from the way the Inheritance Tax had been paid and Laura explained that I could solve my problem with a Deed of Assignment. I was happy to let her prepare this for me
Peter
Our business was dealt with by Bik-ki Wong who impressed us with her competency and efficiency, whilst remaining friendly and helpful at all times. Our queries were answered clearly and promptly giving us confidence that our business would be carried out to our complete satisfaction
Anonymous
Myerson have been our solicitors for several years. They have guided my husband and I in arranging making wills, lasting power of attorney and initially, after the death of my husband through the process of probate.
Mr P
Handled our personal wills very professionally. Really clear and “no-nonsense” approach which we really appreciated
Ruth
I contacted Myerson as I was unable to find a solicitor in Ireland to deal with UK probate for my father's estate as there was a possible complication with domicile. Clara Staunton initially, then Hannah Owens were friendly, helpful, efficient, and proactive in dealing with the case, kept us informed all through the process, followed up without prompting from us and indeed prompted us when needed. It was a pleasure to deal with Hannah and Clara, and I would have no hesitation in recommending them.
Mrs. Westwood
Compared to my original solicitors Myerson have been excellent. Hannah Owens has provided clear explanations of the various options available to us, timely responses, and has been upfront about the expected costs.
Legal 500, 2024
They go the extra mile to help their clients.
Peter Brett & Elizabeth Brett
The service that Myerson provided was excellent. All aspects and options regarding my Will were discussed and explained to our understanding. Based on our experience we would not hesitate to recommend your Company to friends and family.
Anonymous
Laura Willis and Bik-ki Wong have been a credit in resolving my issue and ensured the process was both timely and transparent. Thank you!
Susan
I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. During a very difficult time after the death of my husband, we were treated with the utmost sensitivity and compassion. Hannah at Myerson, in particular, supported my family extremely efficiently throughout the whole process of probate. Communication was frequent and nothing was too much trouble.
Legal 500, 2022
Broad spectrum of private client services offered. Larger practice, but not so large as to not offer a personal approach.’
Legal 500, 2022
Professional and personable approach. Efficient and timely in communication with clients.
Anonymous
I was very impressed with the care and attention that was given to me by Clara Staunton. She went through everything with me and everything was completed in a very short time even though she had to get things signed by one of my sons who lives in New Zealand. I would recommend your firm to anyone who needed a good reliable solicitor. Once again, thank you for everything.
Joyce Mann
Clara was very efficient in dealing with my late husband’s Will. Clara was always available to help in any way. Very caring and understanding, that is very important to clients. I must mention your reception team were always happy to help.
Phil
Handled our personal wills very professionally, really clear and “no-nonsense” approach which we really appreciated
Mr. Wallace
Excellent proactive support to myself and my business led by Clara Staunton and Charlotte Peers who were both excellent every step of the way.
Legal 500, 2024
The team at Myersons continue to provide excellent support to this Family Office. They are diligent professionals always on hand with expert advice delivered in a friendly and meaningful way.
Legal 500, 2024
Very experienced and highly skilled team. Very good to work with on those matters where collaborative working required.
Mr. Lee
Everything that you have touched in what has been a difficult time for me has been dealt with promptly and in the knowledge that I am not at my best. I value the care you have shown.
FAQs
How does the role of an executor differ in an international probate case?
The role of an executor is not recognised in all legal jurisdictions, which means that the process of administering an estate with assets abroad in more than one country may vary.
In these circumstances, advice from the relevant jurisdiction should be obtained and having a separate Will in each jurisdiction may avoid any practical difficulties.
How much do your international probate services cost?
Myerson Solicitor's fees for dealing with international estates differ substantially depending on the complexity of the estate and the variety of work involved.
For more information regarding our pricing for probate in the UK, please go to our dedicated pricing page.
What are the complexities of dealing with an estate with assets in more than one country?
The starting point is the domicile of the deceased person. The next consideration is what type of assets the Deceased had, which are usually split between immovable (such as property and land) and moveable assets (such as bank accounts and items).
How the held assets are taxed and how they are distributed are two different things and will depend on factors such as whether there are Wills in those jurisdictions and what they say.
Meet Our Wills, Trusts, and Probate Lawyers
Home-grown or recruited from national, regional or City firms. Our wills, trusts, and probate lawyers are experts in their fields and respected by their peers.
Darren Christopherson-Smith
Darren is a Solicitor in our Wills, Trusts and Probate Team
Contact Our Experts
You can contact our lawyers below if you have any more questions or want more information:
0161 941 4000
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