The probate and estate administration landscape are more challenging than ever for legal service providers. Amid increasing client demand and growing caseload complexities, over 50% of legal professionals report struggles with workload and resource shortages, as highlighted in Exizent’s 2024 Bereavement Index. These capacity constraints not only hinder firms’ ability to serve clients effectively but also create operational bottlenecks that impact profitability and client satisfaction.
Growing demand, shrinking resources
With 620,000* deaths recorded annually in the UK, the pressure on legal professionals to manage estate administration continues to rise. The average case involves 12 assets and liabilities across multiple institutions, necessitating countless notifications, forms, and correspondence. According to Exizent’s findings, it is likely that over 14 million individual communications are initiated between executors and financial services firms annually. These numbers underscore the administrative burden, leaving firms stretched thin.
As one respondent to the Bereavement Index aptly noted, “We are limiting the number of new clients we take on until we can hire more staff.” This stark reality highlights a growing crisis: the inability of many firms to scale their operations to meet demand.
Hidden cost of outdated practices
A staggering 94% of legal professionals find the probate process slow and complicated, with 67% believing their firms could manage cases more efficiently. Much of this inefficiency stems from outdated workflows, with 83% of information discovery still manual or paper-based, and over a third of firms relying solely on basic productivity tools like email and spreadsheets. Such limitations not only slow the process but also contribute to staff burnout and client dissatisfaction.
Technology as a solution
The good news? Investment in technology offers a clear path forward. Firms that prioritise the adoption of case management systems, tailored for estate administration, report improved efficiency and client satisfaction. Yet, only 16% of firms currently use software designed for estate administration, while 49% feel their existing tools lack critical features.
This technology gap represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Firms investing in modern solutions are not only improving workflow consistency but also enhancing their ability to attract and retain talent. Research from the Legal IT Insider further underscores this point, showing that firms that integrate robust IT solutions report not just operation improvements but also better employee satisfaction and retention.
Why it matters
Capacity constraints can no longer be ignored. To remain competitive and serve bereaved families effectively, legal service providers must act now. Embracing technology, streamlining processes, and reallocating resources are essential strategies. As Nick Cousins, CEO of Exizent, explains, “Good technology can be a game changer. Find solutions that grow with you, ensure team buy-in, and commit to full adoption.”
Legal service firms are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in transforming probate and estate administration. By addressing capacity issues head-on, the sector can build a future where legal teams work smarter, clients receive timely support, and bereaved families face fewer hurdles during an already difficult time.
Explore the full insights in the Bereavement Index 2024 and discover how your firm can thrive in the face of growing demand. Download the full report here.
This article was published by Exizent as part of their advertising agreement with Today’s Wills and Probate. The views expressed in this article are those of the submitter and not those of Today’s Wills and Probate.
