Best way to get a copy of a will

[PeteMorris]

Presumably the Executor?

 

Well yes....In my case I mentioned earlier....the will went through probate and probate was granted by the court, before anyone knew anything about the will...it was all done and dusted....As the executors were also the sole beneficiaries.....Dodgy to say the least!

[Jeffrey Shaw]

As the executors were also the sole beneficiaries.....Dodgy to say the least!

Not necessarily. If the testator left everything to them, it's they who have most financial interest in ensuring propriety.

[gluedtopc]

Thanks again for replies. I was wrong, the Solicitor drew up the Will, but was not involved in the Execution of it. I'm suprised there is no copy. I've done a Probate search and not found anything.

[Jeffrey Shaw]

Thanks again for replies. I was wrong, the Solicitor drew up the Will, but was not involved in the Execution of it. I'm suprised there is no copy. I've done a Probate search and not found anything.

No record = no Probate issued (yet).

[Localman]

Obtaining a copy of a will

This note sets out information about obtaining a copy of a will.

 

In general, a will is a private document unless and until a grant of probate is issued.

 

Once a grant of probate has been issued, a will becomes a public document and anyone can apply to have a copy. In this note “testator” means the person who has written a will; “personal representatives” means the people who administer the estate of the deceased; and “beneficiary” means a person who receives property under the will.

http://www.parliament.uk/briefing-papers/SN03194/obtaining-a-copy-of-a-will

 

Also see:

http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/england/relationships_e/relationships_death_and_wills_e/wills.htm

https://www.gov.uk/wills-probate-inheritance/searching-for-probate-records

http://hmctsformfinder.justice.gov.uk/courtfinder/forms/pa005-eng.pdf

[Jeffrey Shaw]

Yes- although 'Probate' is not a generic word.

Not every Will is eligible for Probate. Some are admitted to Administration with Will annexed.

And for someone who left no Will capable of being legally valid, the Estate is eligible for Letters of Administration.