Probate Myths and Facts: What You Really Need to Know

Don't Let Probate Myths Catch You Off Guard

Probate can feel overwhelming at the best of times. Add in second-hand advice from friends, quick Google searches, and social media opinions - and suddenly you're more confused than ever.

We hear the same probabte myths all the time - and while they often come from a place of good intention, they can lead to big mistakes, delays, and family disputes.

In this blog, we'll walk you through:

• The most common probate myths we hear
• The facts that families need to know
• How Soteria Planning helps you separate truth from fiction and navigate probate with confidence

First, a Quick Reminder: What Is Probate?

Probate is the legal process of managing a deceased person’s estate—paying debts, handling taxes, and distributing inheritance either according to a Will or, if there is no Will, according to the rules of intestacy.

It’s a process designed to protect both the estate and the beneficiaries—but it’s not always simple.

Common Probate Myths vs. Facts

Here’s what we hear from families all the time—paired with the truth that can save you time, money, and stress.

❌ Myth #1: “If there’s a Will, you don’t need probate.”

✅ Fact: Even with a valid Will, probate is still often required—especially if the estate includes property or financial accounts over a certain value.

Why this matters: Banks, insurers, and land registries usually need a Grant of Probate before releasing funds or transferring ownership.

Where Soteria helps: We handle the entire probate application process—making sure you’re not delayed by paperwork or legal missteps.

❌ Myth #2: “Probate always takes years to complete.”

✅ Fact: Most estates are settled in 9–12 weeks once the application is submitted—unless there are complications.

Why this matters: DIY or incomplete applications often cause delays. Family disagreements or missing documents also stall progress.

Where Soteria helps: We streamline the process, liaise with HMRC and the probate office, and keep everything on track.

❌ Myth #3: “Only a solicitor can apply for probate.”

✅ Fact: Executors or next of kin can apply directly—but they’re legally responsible for getting everything right.

Why this matters: If a mistake is made, you could be personally liable for tax errors or disputes.

Where Soteria helps: We’re not a traditional law firm—but we offer qualified, STEP-trained support with all the legal and practical expertise you need.

❌ Myth #4: “Probate is only needed for big estates.”

✅ Fact: Even small estates may require probate, depending on what’s involved (property, pensions, bank accounts, etc.).

Why this matters: It’s not about value—it’s about the type of assets in the estate and who owns them.

Where Soteria helps: We review the estate, advise if probate is required, and handle the admin from start to finish.

❌ Myth #5: “DIY probate saves money.”

✅ Fact: It may save you professional fees—but can cost more in delays, errors, and missed tax savings.

Why this matters: Many people come to us after trying DIY probate and realising it’s more complex than it seemed.

Where Soteria helps: We offer transparent pricing, flexible support, and human-led guidance to get it right the first time.

Why These Myths Stick—And Why They’re Risky

Probate myths persist because:

• Friends or family handled their own situation differently
• Laws vary across the UK or have changed
• Online advice often isn’t tailored to your situation

Believing a myth can lead to:

• Legal fines
• Tax complications
• Delayed access to funds
• Stress and conflict at an already difficult time

Where Soteria Planning Fits In

At Soteria, we’re all about clarity, not complexity.

We’re not a stuffy corporate firm, and we’re not a lone consultant working off a laptop. We sit in that sweet spot in the middle—qualified, approachable, and always here when you need us.

We offer:

• STEP-qualified probate and Will experts
• End-to-end probate support (or just help with the tricky parts)
• Clear, human communication—no jargon
• Fixed fees and no hidden costs
• Personalised service tailored to your family situation

We don’t just file forms—we make sure you understand every step, every option, and every outcome.

Still Unsure What to Believe?

That’s okay. Probate isn’t something most people deal with often—which is why we’re here.

If you’re not sure whether you need probate, what documents you’ll need, or how to start—we’ll guide you, without pressure.

📞 Book your free consultation today
🌐 Visit soteriaplanning.uk to learn more