Find the Best Wills & Probate Lawyers in Belfast

A straightforward single will typically costs between £150 and £350, with mirror wills for couples costing somewhat more. More complex estate planning — trusts, business assets, or blended families — will cost more and is usually quoted after an initial discussion.

Probate is the legal process of administering someone's estate after death — collecting assets, paying debts, and distributing what remains according to the will (or intestacy rules if there isn't one). Smaller estates, or those held entirely in joint names, can sometimes be dealt with without a formal grant of probate.

Yes, DIY wills are legally valid if correctly signed and witnessed, but mistakes in wording or execution are a common cause of disputes and can invalidate a will entirely. A solicitor is particularly worth using if you have children from a previous relationship, own a business, or have a larger or more complex estate.

Probate typically takes 6-12 months from application to full estate distribution, though simple estates can be quicker and estates involving property sales, disputes, or Inheritance Tax can take considerably longer.