Probate and Estates

Easing your burden using experience, empathy and efficiency

It can be overwhelming to think about the administrative tasks that need to be taken care of when dealing with a deceased’s estate. Cross Solicitors are here to make life significantly easier during an emotionally taxing period.

A full service - from beginning to end

Death is a difficult time for anyone, and you may be unsure about what steps to take in dealing with a deceased’s estate. A probate solicitor can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the entire process.


Over 40 years, Cross Solicitors have built working relationships with local funeral directors. We can also help with house clearances, and other necessities, like insurance for an unoccupied property, or registering a death. Whatever it is you need after losing a loved one, we’re here to help.

An efficient service

As a modern firm, we pride ourselves on our use of technology to guarantee the process of probate is as efficient as possible. We use a probate portal to ensure the fastest possible turnaround, so that you can get the closure you need without unnecessary delay.


Whether you require a solicitor to help in dealing with the administration of an Estate, with or without a Will, from straightforward low value cases, to more complex ones involving inheritance tax and stocks and shares, you can rely on us to guide you and your family through this challenging time.

SRA Costs Information

  • What is Probate?

    Probate is a legal process that happens when someone dies and their assets need to be distributed according to either their will or the law. Probate solicitors can help with this process by obtaining the grant of probate, which is a document granted by a court that confirms the executor’s right to manage and distribute the deceased person’s estate. They are also responsible for collecting any debts owed to the estate, paying any taxes due, and distributing assets in accordance with the law. 

  • Legal Requirements in probate

    One of the most important legal requirements when a person dies is obtaining a grant of probate. It is a document issued by the Probate Registry which allows someone to deal with the deceased's estate. If you are an executor or administrator of an estate, you may need to obtain a grant of probate before any assets can be distributed in accordance with the wishes outlined in the will. 

  • Benefits of a Probate Solicitor

    A probate solicitor is a legal professional who assists people with the administration of a deceased person’s estate. The solicitor will manage complex paperwork, explain inheritance tax regulations and help beneficiaries receive their entitlements. 


    One of the main advantages of using a probate solicitor is that they have knowledge and experience in dealing with estates. This can be invaluable to those unfamiliar with such matters, as solicitors are able to guide them through an often complicated and time consuming process.  


    Finally, probate solicitors can assist executors in their personal liability for correctly administering the estate by providing expert guidance throughout the process. They may also be willing to take charge of certain duties such as distributing assets, completing forms or contacting relevant organisations on behalf of the executor or beneficiary.


Susan M Hollywood – Solicitor

Susan is a Solicitor and Partner in the firm. She qualified as a Legal Executive in 1996 and as a Solicitor in 2001. She became a Partner in 2005. She has been the Supervising Partner for the Probate Department for over 20 years and has experience in dealing with all kinds of Estate Administration and Wills. 

Callum Jones – Solicitor

Evan Hurlow - Paralegal

Evan joined the probate and private client department in September 2022 after completing his law degree. He has made swift progress and manages a daily caseload under the supervision of Susan Hollywood.

Victoria Handley – Solicitor

Megan Roberts – Legal Assistant

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