Probate

Intestacy Rules

For details of how an estate is divided when there is no Will please see the flow diagram below:

Intestacy Rules Image

Glossary
At 18 years old	Any children under the age of 18 years has a right to the assets but they cannot legally accept them until they are 18 years old
Aunts/Uncles of the half blood	Your parent’s half sister/brother
Aunts/Uncles of the whole blood	Your parent’s sister/brother
Issue	Any direct descendants, i.e. children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren etc.
Personal Possessions	These are defined in section 55(1)(x) of the Administration of Estates Act 1925 as amended by section 3 of the Inheritance and Trustees Powers Act 2014 as being tangible moveable property, other than any such property which consists of money or securities for money, or was used at the death of the intestate solely or mainly for business purposes, or was held at the death of the intestate solely as an investment. It usually includes the items you own inside and outside your house.
Residue	Whatever remains in the estate after all debts, tax and specific legacies have been paid
Siblings of the half blood	Brothers or sisters with whom you have one parent in common
Siblings of the whole blood	Brothers or sisters with whom you have two parents in common

Administering the Estate

The steps needed to deal with an intestate estate are largely similar to that of an estate with a will.

The main difference is who is entitled to act in the administration and that the grant of probate is referred to as a grant of letters of administration. There are also some limitations on taking possession of assets where there is no will and executor appointed.

For detailed guidance on sorting out an intestate estate please contact us to arrange an appointment.