How to Get a Copy of a Will Before Probate

Introduction

In the event of a loved one’s death, you may need to obtain copies of their will. While this process is generally simple, it can be complicated by the involvement of the probate court — which means there are a few things you should know before requesting copies.

A will is a legal document used to distribute your estate after death. If you need to obtain a copy of someone’s will, there are several options available. The most common option involves contacting an attorney or probate court directly; however, there are other methods that may be less expensive and more efficient for your needs.

How to get a copy of a will before probate

There are a few potential avenues to take if you’re trying to get a copy of a will before probate. Below we’ll walk you through the steps to take:

Get in touch with the executor or administrator of the will

If you want a copy of a will before probate, write to the executor or administrator. The executor is the person who will be dealing with the estate and is usually named in the will. If there is no executor, then it’s up to you to act as one until someone else steps forward. You can also write to your local court if there is no executor or administrator.

You should also contact the court if there is no will and you want to apply for probate yourself. If there is a will, then the executor will deal with all of these things on your behalf.

The will might be on public file at the court

If you are the executor or administrator of an estate, you can get a copy of a will before probate by writing to the court where the will is filed and asking for it. The court may then send you a copy of the will.

If no one has been named as executor or administrator in your loved one’s will, but you believe that there is one, write to the address on file with your local probate office and ask for information on how to become an executor or administrator and how to obtain copies of all legal documents related to probate.

Conclusion

If you need a copy of a will before probate, the first thing you’ll want to do is find the executor of your loved one’s estate. The executor is responsible for managing your loved one’s belongings after he or she dies. It’s up to them whether they want to share a copy with you or not. If they agree, then they’ll send a copy over right away so that you can hold onto it until probate starts happening.

If you require assistance with obtaining a copy of a will before probate, or if you have any other legal questions regarding wills, get in contact with our team at Will Claim Solicitors today.