What is Probate?

In the midst of bereavement, it can be hard to sort out a loved one’s financial affairs.  So what is probate?  Here we will try to point you in the right direction and help, providing a helpful and sympathetic approach to dealing with all of the necessary paperwork.  The probate process can be lengthy, complex and time consuming, averaging nine months to one year, which of course increases worry for many people who are trying to deal with their own grief, whilst coming to terms with a sudden change of circumstances and trying to get used to life with the absence of a loved one.

Following a death a doctor will usually issue the required ‘death certificate’.  This is an important document that will help get the probate process moving, so keep it safe and don’t lose it.

It is the process of dealing with the estate of someone who has passed away, which generally means clearing their debts and distributing their assets in accordance with their wishes previously written into a will.  In legal language it means ‘the process of dealing with someone’s estate after they die.’

If you’re responsible (or one of several chosen executors) for sorting out someone’s will, there are specific rules that set out how you need to notify the authorities and distribute the estate.