Grant of probate is simply a legal document that entitles an executor to access the deceased’s assets and distribute them as described in the Will, to the best of your ability. 

If there is no Will, you will need to apply for a Letter of Administration.

There is no general rule but usually you will require a grant of probate if the deceased has left:

•  £5000 or more in money and assets;
•  Property or land in their own name;
•  Stocks, shares or bonds.

If the deceased did not leave any of the above, or everything that they owned was jointly-held with a surviving partner, then it may not be necessary.

If you’d like some help with collecting all the necessary forms and information you need to be granted probate, click here to see our Probate Support Service…  or if you’d prefer us to take the whole job off your hands, we also offer a more comprehensive Gold and a Silver service.

Which forms?

If the estate is worth more than £325,000, then there will be a potential for an inheritance liability and you will need to notify the Inland Revenue, complete the tax return and pay any Inheritance Tax due. In any event a return needs to be completed and forwarded with the application for Grant of Probate to the Probate Registry.

Call 01726 68111 or 01872 276363 now and let one of Cornwall's most experienced specialist Probate lawyers, Julie Evans help you through your full range of legal and practical options.