Some of the more frequent questions in legal matters related to Probate – A probate is the term used to describe a legal method in which we obtain a ‘grant of probate’ to allow the distribution of a person’s estate after they have died.
What is a grant of probate?
This is a legal document granted to you by the probate office that confirms your right as an executor/administrator and your authority to deal with the deceased’s assets.
Who takes responsibility for the probate?
Probate is the role of the executor(s) (there may be one, or more than one) named in the will. If a will wasn’t left, the job of dealing with a person’s estate falls to their next of kin, who becomes known as the administrator. In this case, the process is known as ‘administration’.
How long does a probate take?
It typically takes between six and eight weeks to get a grant of probate (or letters of administration if there isn’t a will). Once this has been obtained, the whole process of administering the estate usually takes from six to nine months, depending on the complexity of the estate and the cooperation of the various parties involved.
Contact JMR Solicitors for more information and advice on probates, contesting a will and for help dealing with someone’s estate after they have died. Our professional solicitors deal with each case with integrity, transparency and our aim is to get you the best outcome that is right for you.