What is a
Grant of Probate?
When a loved one passes away, their house and possessions need to be sorted out. This is called administering their estate. This will include everything that person owns, property, belongings, money stored in their bank account, any unpaid debt, jewellery, etc.
In order to do this, their entrusted friend or family member (known as the executor) needs to apply to the Probate Registry to obtain a document known as a grant of probate. If no Will exists, then an application still needs to be made by the next of kin to the Probate Registry, but the document is known as a grant of letters of administration. Under these circumstances, the next of kin is known as an administrator, rather than an executor.
The grant has a number of important features for example:
- It states the gross and net of the estate
- It states the names of the people administering the estate
Further resources: Probate forms | Probate Guides
How long does a grant of probate take?
The time it takes for probate to be issued and the estate to be settled completely depends on many factors. If no errors or issues arise, expect the whole probate process to take between 1 and 2 months. Our team at Probate Forms double-checks every detail when it comes to applying for probate, ensuring no stone is left unturned when completing the required probate forms.
How to apply for a Grant of Probate
Applying for probate requires completing all the relevant probate forms and sending them off to the main probate registry located in London. If you are inexperienced with legal documents, this can be a complicated and time-consuming process, which is not something you want to deal with while grieving over a lost loved one.
Probate Forms offer fixed-fee probate services, where the fees can be subtracted from the estate. If you have been appointed as the executor or administrator of an estate, give us a call on 020 3985 9553 or request a callback, and we’ll be happy to help with any questions you need answering.
