When it is time to sort out the affairs of a loved one or someone close, the prospect of handling probate may seem daunting. It is hardly surprising then that people look to employ professional probate administrators to act on their behalf.

The Probate Bureau not only offers a professional administration service, but it also offers the general public a free advisory telephone service.  “We are here to help anyone” says Managing Director, David West. “Many people find the whole probate process confusing and have little idea where to start first. A first initial telephone call to The Probate Bureau can save hours of research“.

With over 10 years in the probate industry The Probate Bureau will have an immediate answer to the most straightforward or complex questions.

For free probate advice call us now on 0800 028 2837.

Where the person dies determines what steps need to be taken:

When someone dies at home or in a nursing home a Medical Certificate of Death is needed. The Deceased’s doctor must be called and, providing the doctor is completely satisfied with the cause of death, a Medical Certificate of Death is issued.  Should someone die in hospital, staff will arrange for a doctor to prepare a Medical Certificate of Death.  If death occurred unexpectedly a Coroner will be called upon to establish the medical cause of death. Only until the Coroner is satisfied with the cause of death is a Medical Certificate of Death issued.

Usually the Next of Kin, Executor or close relative who obtains the Medical Certificate of Death, will register the death at the local registry office.  At this stage is it important to locate the Deceased’s Will. The Executor of the Will can then act on the Deceased’s instructions.  The Executor will then be able to make arrangements with a local funeral director. For details of reputable local independent funeral director and for advice on conducting probate, call us on 0800 028 2837.

If the Deceased died without a Will (intestate) the Next of Kin along with family members can make arrangement for the funeral with an appointed funeral director.  The Next of Kin is the primary person who must sort out the affairs of the Deceased.  Depending on the size of the Deceased’s estate the Next of Kin needs to prepare to apply for a Grant of Representation (i.e a Grant of Probate or a Grant of Letters of Administration).  Before doing anything we recommend talking to one of our Advisors to discuss the process with you.  Alternatively email us with any question. Our advice is free and based on over a decade of probate experience.