What Is Probate? If a person has died without leaving a will, it is usually up to the next of kin to apply for a 'grant of letters of administration', otherwise known as probate.

When you die without a will or without any other binding declaration that states who you wish to inherit your estate, it is called intestacy. All of your property, personal possessions and money become a part of an intestate estate. In these cases, it can be unclear as to who can inherit without a will.

Many people have never made a will - it's something that people often only get around to when they're either ill or advanced in age. And yet, unfortunately, the nature of death is that it often comes without warning. It is always a good idea to have a will, because not only will it give you peace of mind knowing that your possessions will pass on where you want when you die, but also it makes sorting out your estate much easier for your family and friends.

We are currently going through an incredibly unusual period, and due to lockdowns, office closures and furlough schemes, many processes, procedures and means of operation have had to alter. Numerous businesses have had to change the services they offer, and that has understandably led to confusion over what can be attained during this time, and what cannot.

Losing a loved one can be devastating but unfortunately it is something we will all have to deal with in our lives.

Probate is the process of administering a dead person's estate. If the deceased has left a will and appointed an executor, that person will usually be granted probate automatically. However, if no will is left, the next of kin will have to apply for a 'grant of letters of administration', before proceeding with probate.