Delays at the Probate Registry

If you, or your Solicitor, have submitted an application to the Probate Registry recently and you’re wondering why it’s taking so long, here’s why….

It used to be that Grants of Probate were issued within seven to 10 working days. However, in March this year, new software was introduced at Probate Registries across the country. Shortly after this there was a “technical glitch” which disrupted the service for four days.

Although the glitch was nearly three months ago, there is now a significant backlog of applications to be dealt with. Little headway is being made as, with the Government’s threat of increasing the Probate fees, the Registries are continuing to receive a huge influx of applications. At the moment it can take up to 13 weeks to receive a Grant back.

This delay has a knock on effect for executors who urgently need to deal with estates as they cannot access funds or pays bills until they have the Grant. Unfortunately there is nothing we can do to speed the applications along, but it is hoped that the process will be simpler once the backlog is dealt with.

If you would like advice on applying for a Grant of Probate or dealing with an estate, please contact our Wills and Probate department on 01482 323697.