Can You Do Probate Without a Solicitor in Ireland?
Probate is the formal legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. In Ireland, you can apply for a Grant of Probate yourself through the Probate Office’s Personal Application Department — but there are significant risks to doing so without professional guidance.
What Is Probate?
Probate authorises an executor or administrator to deal with the assets of a deceased person. Banks, the Land Registry, and financial institutions require a Grant of Probate before they will release assets.
When Is Probate Required?
You may not need probate if the estate consists only of jointly owned property, small bank accounts below €25,000–€50,000, or assets with named beneficiaries. If the deceased owned property in their sole name, probate is almost always required.
Risks of DIY Probate
While permitted, personal applications carry real risks including errors in Revenue returns triggering audits, missing Capital Acquisitions Tax thresholds, title issues on property, and Section 117 claims from children. Processing times for personal applicants are also typically longer.
When You Should Use a Solicitor
A solicitor is strongly recommended where the estate includes property, exceeds €100,000, or where CAT may be payable. Our probate service covers the full process from Revenue returns to distribution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does probate cost in Ireland?
Probate costs include solicitor fees, the Probate Office filing fee (approximately €200 for estates over €50,000), and any Revenue liability. A service means you know the full cost upfront.
What happens if there is no will in Ireland?
Where there is no valid will, the estate is distributed under the Succession Act 1965 intestacy rules. A surviving spouse receives two-thirds and children share one-third. If no spouse, children inherit in equal shares.
How long does probate take in Ireland in 2026?
The Probate Office currently processes applications in approximately 4–8 months from receipt of a complete application.
This article is for informational purposes only. For advice specific to your situation, consult a solicitor of your choice..
