Helping you navigate the Jersey's probate processes with confidence.

Dealing with someone’s estate after they pass away can be emotionally overwhelming and administratively complex, especially in Jersey where the probate process involves specific procedures and legal formalities unique to the Island.

‍
Our Expertise

At BCR, our team of experts offer clear, compassionate guidance to help you fulfil your responsibilities with confidence.  Whether you require simple guidance or want us to manage the process on your behalf, our Probate team can help.

‍
Our Approach

We offer two levels of service:

• Assisting You: Advisory support to help you in your role as executor or administrator
• Full Service: Where we handle the probate and estate administration process on your behalf.

‍
Understanding Probate in Jersey

Probate is the legal process by which the estate of someone who has died is dealt with. It involves:

• Identifying assets and liabilities.
• Paying debts, taxes, and expense.
• Distributing the remaining estate to beneficiaries in accordance with the terms of the deceased’s will, or Jersey law in circumstances where the deceased did not leave a valid will.

‍
The relevant law includes the Probate (Jersey) Law 1998 and the Wills and Succession (Jersey) Law 1993, both of which differ significantly from UK law. Jersey also levies stamp duty on the gross value of Jersey-based assets, which must be paid as part of the probate process.

‍
International Estates and Jersey Assets

Many of the estates we handle involve assets located both within Jersey and overseas. As one of the leading firms in Jersey for foreign estate matters, we are well placed to:

• Coordinate with UK and foreign law firms.
• Handle fast-track reseals or full Jersey probate applications for foreign domiciliaries.
• Advise on Jersey succession and stamp duty laws.
• Work with our in-house tax specialists at BCR Professional Services Limited (BCR Pro) to address:
  
  • UK Inheritance Tax (IHT).
  • Domicile and residency issues.
  • Estate tax compliance and reporting.

‍
Probate Disputes and Delays

Sometimes the probate process is delayed due to disputes over the will, disagreements between executors or questions about capacity.  Our Wills and Estates team works closely with our Dispute Resolution lawyers to advise on:

• Caveats (legal notices to delay probate).
• Executor disputes.
• Challenges to the validity of Wills.
• Variation or rectification of Wills.
• Removal of executors or administrators.

Where possible, we help parties find amicable solutions but when litigation is necessary, we ensure our clients are supported.

‍
Our Values in Action

Excellence: In the quality, accuracy, and speed of our advice and actions.

‍Delivery: We move matters forward promptly and efficiently, anticipating delays and resolving obstacles.

‍Respect: For your time, your family and the wishes of the deceased.

‍Elegance: In our conduct, communication and the way we resolve challenges.

‍
Why BCR Law

Navigation of Jersey’s Probate processes requires local expertise and clear guidance. We deliver trusted, compassionate support tailored to the complexity of each matter.

‍