Probate and administration
Probate
When the deceased has left a will this needs to be proved at the Probate Registry. Once Probate has been granted, the executors named in the will are then able to administer the estate.
Letters of administration
If the deceased has not left a will they are said to have died intestate. It is then necessary to apply to the Probate Registry for Letters of Administration for permission to administer the estate.
The assets of a small estate are sometimes released to the next of kin without Letters of Administration or Probate being granted.
Solicitor
A solicitor’s expertise in dealing with all aspects of the deceased’s estate will of course save you a great deal of time, trouble and worry.
The family solicitor may be holding a copy of the will and should be consulted as soon as possible. There may be important instructions in the will concerning funeral arrangements.