We have recently seen a significant increase in the time taken by the Probate Registry in issuing Grants, caused by government cuts and the implication of new software. The process has, for many years, taken around two to three weeks, however, the current delays mean it is taking around 10-12 weeks for a Grant of Probate to be issued following receipt of the required documentation by the Probate Registry.

As you can imagine, in some cases, this is causing major problems, particularly when there is a house to sell. Contracts cannot be exchanged on a deceased’s property until you have a Grant of Probate and this delay could potentially jeopardise a sale.

Although it is possible to apply for an emergency Grant of Probate if you are worried about a sale falling through, this will cost more and will still take at least a couple of weeks.

There is yet to be any statement issued by the relevant body in regards to these delays and when they will be resolved. This is of course going to add further pressure on the executors and stress on the relatives of the deceased during what is already an upsetting time .