What Happens at the Probate Registry?

Thank goodness you don’t have to stand in an open court with your left hand on a bible and answer to a scary judge wearing a black robe and a wig.

A few weeks after posting the probate forms, you will be called to the registry for an interview. You will be asked to swear an oath that all the information is correct and that you will distribute the estate in accordance with the will. Remember, you can be held legally liable if things are not done properly.

The grant of representation costs £215 but reduces to £155 if applied for through a solicitor. No fee is charged for estates valued at under £5,000. Extra copies of the grant should be ordered at the same time for 50p each as most organisations will require one – and photocopies are not acceptable. Requesting official copies later costs a lot more. These fees can be reclaimed from the estate as an administration expense.

Planned increases to these fees were shelved after Theresa May called last year’s general election. The grant and the will now become public documents and can be viewed by anyone for a small fee.

For expert help with the probate process, contact Heritage Will Writing on 02380 879243.