Find a probate solicitor in Ireland
When someone passes away, dealing with their estate can feel overwhelming. We match you with an experienced probate solicitor in your own county — free, and with no obligation.
Probate is the legal process of dealing with the estate (the money, property and possessions) of a person who has died. If the deceased left a valid will, the person named as executor applies to the Probate Office for a Grant of Probate, which confirms their authority to gather in the assets, pay any debts and taxes, and distribute what remains to the beneficiaries.
When do you need a probate solicitor?
You are not legally obliged to use a solicitor for every estate, but most executors do — and for good reason. A probate solicitor is usually worth it where:
- the estate includes property or land that must be transferred or sold;
- there is Capital Acquisitions Tax (inheritance tax) to calculate and file;
- the will is unclear, contested, or there is no will at all (an intestacy);
- there are assets abroad, a family business, or beneficiaries who are minors;
- you simply don't have the time or confidence to handle Revenue and the Probate Office yourself.
What a probate solicitor does for you
A good probate solicitor takes the administrative weight off your shoulders. Typically they will:
- identify and value the assets and liabilities of the estate;
- prepare the Inland Revenue Affidavit (Form SA.2) and the application papers;
- lodge the application with the relevant Probate Registry and deal with any queries;
- handle Capital Acquisitions Tax returns for beneficiaries where required;
- collect in the assets, settle debts, and distribute the estate correctly;
- keep proper estate accounts so executors are protected.
Why probate matters most. Getting probate wrong can leave the executor personally liable. A solicitor's fee is paid from the estate, not from your own pocket, and gives you certainty that the estate has been administered properly.
How ProbateMatch.ie helps
Rather than ringing around firms or guessing who handles probate, tell us your county and your situation. We connect you with a solicitor who handles probate and estate work in your area, so you deal with someone local who understands the courts and registries you'll be using. There's no cost to use our service and no obligation to proceed.
Probate solicitors in every county
We cover all 26 counties of the Republic of Ireland. Choose your county to read about the local Probate Registry and find a solicitor near you:
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a solicitor to get probate in Ireland?
No — a personal applicant can apply directly to the Probate Office. But where there is property, tax to pay, or any complexity, most executors use a solicitor to avoid mistakes and personal liability.
How much does a probate solicitor cost in Ireland?
Fees vary. Some solicitors charge a percentage of the estate (often around 1–2% plus VAT and outlay), others a fixed fee or hourly rate. We recommend asking for a written quote up front — see our
probate costs guide.
How long does probate take?
Once a complete application is lodged, a grant can take a number of months depending on Probate Office waiting times. Administering the whole estate usually takes 6–12 months. See
how long probate takes.
What if there is no will?
Where there is no will, the estate is distributed under the Succession Act 1965 and a close relative applies for a Grant of Letters of Administration instead. A solicitor can guide you through intestacy.