What Is the Average Time for Probate in the UK?

The average time for probate, the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate, can vary depending on a number of factors in the United Kingdom. The process can take several months or even longer, depending on the complexity of the estate, the number of beneficiaries, and any legal or practical issues that may arise. Obtaining a Grant of Probate

The first step in the probate process is to obtain a grant of probate. This legal document confirms the legal authority of the executors to collect and distribute the assets of the deceased’s estate. The average time for obtaining a grant of probate can vary depending on the complexity of the estate and the specific circumstances of the case. On average, it can take around 8 - 12 weeks to obtain a grant of probate.

Administering the Estate

Once a grant of probate has been obtained, the executors can begin the process of administering the estate. This includes collecting and valuing the assets of the estate, paying any outstanding debts and taxes, and distributing the assets to the beneficiaries according to the wishes of the deceased as stated in the will. The average time for administering the estate can vary depending on the complexity of the estate, the number of beneficiaries, and any legal or practical issues that may arise. On average, it can take around 6 to 12 months to administer the estate.

Complexities of the Estate

It’s worth noting that the average time for probate can vary depending on the complexity of the estate. If the estate includes a large number of assets, multiple beneficiaries, or assets that are difficult to value, the probate process can take longer. Additionally, if there are outstanding legal proceedings, such as disputes over the will or tax issues, this can also add to the overall time it takes to complete probate.

It’s also important to note that solicitors may have a high workload and may not have the capacity to work on your case as quickly as you would like. It’s important to keep in mind that solicitors are handling multiple cases at a time and may have to prioritise certain cases over others.

In conclusion, the average time for probate can vary depending on a number of factors in the United Kingdom. On average it can take around 6 to 8 weeks to obtain a grant of probate and around 6 to 12 months to administer the estate. However, it can take longer depending on the complexity of the estate, the number of beneficiaries, and any legal or practical issues that may arise. It’s important to keep in mind that each case is unique and that obtaining probate can be a time-consuming task. If you have any concerns about the time it is taking to get probate, it’s essential to raise them with your solicitor and keep track of the progress of your case.