What is causing the delays for Probate applications?
Most recent applications to the probate registry for grants of representation are being delayed.
In March 2019, the government introduced new IT systems to digitalise the court procedure for grant applications.
According to the probate court, due to a new database being implemented there has been significant technical issues and glitches. Before the new government IT system was introduced in March 2019, grants of probate were issued within 7 to 10 working days, now solicitors and applicants are seeing delays of up to 6 to 8 weeks.
There has been a surge in the probate applications due to the new proposed increase in fees by the government. Although this has yet to be implemented due to the uncertainty of Brexit and lack of parliamentary time, the registry office has been placed with additional pressure as many people want to avoid the increased fees. In addition to all this, the probate office has recently seen significant government cuts and closures to some district registry.
We have noticed that mistakes made on original probate applications can cause extra delays where applications are being moved to the back of the queue, meaning people are seeing delays up to 15 plus weeks. The technical issues have been rectified and addition resources and staff members have been allocated to get through the back log of applications. It is there for important that applications being made, at this time-sensitive period, are done correctly so as to mitigate the lengthy time spent extracting a grant.
How can Jackson Longe help?
Here at Jackson Longe, we have a vast amount of experience with supporting and processing probate applications. We will take full responsibility in ensuring that your application is completed efficiently so that the recently increased time waiting period can be reduced. We follow the court rules based on the Non Contentious Probate ( Amendment) Rules 2019 as well each probate registry’s specific guidelines to ensure your application is correct the first-time round. We are transparent about our process and will ensure everyone involved is aware of delays so expectations can be managed. If you would like one of our friendly team member to support you on this matter please contact us on 020 8332 2069 or email info@jacksonlonge.com.