How to Obtain Probate

What is probate?

When someone dies somebody has to deal with their estate (the money, property and possessions left) by collecting all the money, paying any debts and distributing the estate to those entitled.

The Probate Registry issues the document which is called a Grant Of Representation.

There are three types of grant.

1. Probate issues to one or more of the executors named in the will
2. Letters of Administration (with will) issues when there is a will, but no executor named or unable to deal with the estate
3. Letters of administration issued when the deceased has not made a will or it is not valid.

Why is this grant necessary?

Organisations holding money in the deceased name needs to know to whom the money is to be paid to. The distribution of the estate is the responsibility of the person named on the deed.

Is this grant always needed?

A grant is sometimes not needed if the deceased money will be released without the holder seeing a grant, when the amount held is small and there are no complications.