Partnership Is Latest Stage Of Irwin Mitchell’s Strategy To Expand Its Business

National law firm Irwin Mitchell today announces it is working with the UK’s fifth largest building society offering probate services to its 719,000 members and their families.

Leeds Building Society members and families will have access to a free, no-obligation helpline for advice and support and a range of fixed-fee probate services following the death of a loved one.

Irwin Mitchell partner Gillian Coverley said finalising the financial affairs of a family member when they have died can be time-consuming, complex and confusing and many people benefit from taking professional advice. She added that Leeds Building Society chose Irwin Mitchell as its probate partner because the Society recognises its expertise – particularly with complex cases - and excellent service.

The agreement with Leeds Building Society, which has 67 branches, is the latest development in Irwin Mitchell’s plans to expand its business. Last month, the firm launched Irwin Mitchell Private Wealth, creating a market-leading wealth management business.  In November last year, it announced a merger with law firm Thomas Eggar creating a £250m legal service business with more than 2,600 staff.

Irwin Mitchell’s probate service with the Society will include initial no-obligation advice through a 24-hour helpline staffed by legally qualified professionals. Those who need more support will be offered a range of probate services from obtaining a Grant of Probate (or Confirmation in Scotland) to a fully comprehensive estate administration service, which can involve everything from organising funeral arrangements and death registration to selling property, settling all taxes and distributing the estate to those entitled.

Expert Opinion

“Leeds Building Society is an excellent partner for us because we share the same values that focus on providing a high quality service for clients. This is also an important agreement for Irwin Mitchell because it demonstrates how the Society recognises the service that we can offer members and their families at a difficult time in their lives when many need support and expert guidance.

“Irwin Mitchell has a huge amount of experience in this area, especially with complicated cases, that few law firms can match. Sorting out the financial affairs of a loved when they have died can be a daunting prospect for people and dealing with an estate when acting as an executor or administrator can be complicated, time consuming and stressful. Disputes are possible, the tax paperwork can be complex and executors are often unaware of their responsibilities.

“Obtaining a Grant of Probate, or Confirmation in Scotland, is a legal requirement before a deceased person’s estate can be settled and divided among beneficiaries. Administering an estate can often take months – and sometimes years if the estate is complex. The work will be done during a period of emotional turmoil and executors can also be financially liable for any mistakes they make. Many people simply do not know what they have to do and that is why the services of experienced estates and probate solicitors can prove so valuable.” Gillian Coverley - National Head of Partnerships, Wills & Probate

Jaedon Green, Director of Product and Distribution at Leeds Building Society, said:

“Dealing with a loved one’s estate after their death can be challenging, particularly at a time of significant distress. As an extension to our current service, we are pleased to be entering into a partnership with Irwin Mitchell to offer members and families additional support during this difficult time.

“Irwin Mitchell shares similar values to our Society and this, in addition to their professional expertise, was one of the reasons we chose them as a partner for this sensitive work.”

Read more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in Wills, Trusts and Probate law.