Hugh Phelan Solicitor Cork — Wills & Probate Video Guides
Watch expert explanations from Hugh Phelan, Probate Solicitor Cork, covering the key questions on wills, intestacy and the Grant of Probate in Ireland.
What Happens If You Die With No Will? How to Make a Valid Will in Ireland
What Is a Grant of Probate in Ireland? Probate Solicitor Cork Explains
About Hugh Phelan Solicitors, Cork
Hugh Phelan Solicitors is a Cork-based legal practice specialising in wills, probate, trusts and estate planning across Cork city and county. Hugh Phelan is an experienced probate solicitor with deep knowledge of Irish succession law, the Probate Registry process, and the practical realities of administering an estate in Ireland.
Whether you need to make a will, obtain a Grant of Probate, or navigate the complexities of estate administration after a bereavement, the team at Phelan Solicitors provides expert, straightforward legal advice.
Key Questions Answered in These Videos
What happens if someone dies without a will in Ireland?
If you die without a valid will in Ireland, you are said to die "intestate." Your estate is distributed according to the rules set out in the Succession Act 1965, not according to your wishes. Your spouse or civil partner has first priority, followed by children, and then more distant relatives. Unmarried partners have no automatic entitlement under Irish intestacy law.
What is a Grant of Probate?
A Grant of Probate is a court-issued document that confirms the executor named in a will has the legal authority to administer the deceased's estate. The application is made to the Probate Registry and is governed by court rules. Once granted, the executor can access bank accounts, sell property, and distribute assets to beneficiaries.
How long does probate take in Ireland?
As Hugh Phelan explains in the video above, the process generally takes anywhere between 8 and 12 months from the date of application to the Probate Registry. Complex estates, contested wills, or delays in gathering assets can extend this timeline.
Do I need a solicitor for probate in Ireland?
For straightforward estates, it is possible to apply for probate without a solicitor (known as a "personal application"). However, where an estate is complex — involving property, business interests, foreign assets, or potential disputes — it is strongly advisable to appoint a probate solicitor. A solicitor can complete the forms, liaise with the Probate Registry, and guide executors through the process.
How do I make a valid will in Ireland?
Under Irish law, a valid will must be in writing, signed by the testator (the person making the will) in the presence of two witnesses, and signed by both witnesses in the presence of the testator. Witnesses cannot be beneficiaries. The testator must be over 18 and of sound mind. A solicitor can ensure your will is properly executed and legally effective.
Speak to Hugh Phelan Solicitors Today
Expert wills and probate advice in Cork. Contact the team for a consultation.