How long does it take to get a Grant of Probate?

The time that it takes to get a Grant of Probate can be impacted by a number of issues.  Some issues can be controlled, and some just can’t.

The sooner a Grant of Probate is obtained, the sooner assets can be distributed to beneficiaries, and so we work hard on the things that we can control to make the process smooth and hassle-free.

There are two stages to getting a Grant of Probate:

  • Preparing and lodging the application with the Probate Registry; and
  • Dealing with the Probate Registry to process the application and obtain the Grant of Probate.

Seems relatively straightforward?  In many cases it is.  We make it our business to process probate applications as quickly as possible, and keep you updated on how it’s going.

If you would like to discuss your situation with one of our lawyers and discuss the likely time frame for your probate application, please call us on 1300 654 590.

Stage 1: Preparation & Lodgement

As a general guideline, we aim to complete the first stage of the process within 14 days of receiving instructions.  This is usually possible if:

  • The Will has been prepared professionally and stored carefully;
  • The personal affairs of the deceased person were simple, with relatively few assets, liabilities, business and property interests;
  • The personal records of the deceased person have been kept in good order; and
  • The executors of the Will are available and willing to assist with the Probate application, including signing the application.

Stage 2: Dealing with the Probate Registry

The time to complete the second stage of Probate is difficult to estimate, as it is controlled by the Probate Registry (a Registry of the Supreme Court), and it often depends on the number of other applications that are waiting to be processed.  In general, the time-frame can be anywhere between 4-10 weeks.  We manage this process by regularly monitoring the status of your Probate application, and by dealing quickly with any queries that the Probate Registry may raise along the way.

If you would like to discuss your situation with one of our lawyers and discuss the likely time frame for your probate application, please call us on 1300 654 590.

Click here to find out more about our fixed fee Probate Services.

 

The information contained in this post is current at the date of editing – 10 October 2022.

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