The Ministry of Justice has introduced a new probate application escalation process to help deal with probate applications that have experienced significant delays.
Under the new process, applicants whose probate applications have remained unresolved for more than 12 weeks can request that their case is escalated for further review. The process is also available for applications that have already been queried but continue to require additional investigation before they can be progressed.
The aim of the new escalation route is to improve the visibility of outstanding applications, helping delayed cases receive the attention needed to move them forward more efficiently.
If your probate application has been outstanding for longer than 12 weeks and you have not received a satisfactory update, you can request a case progression update by emailing contactprobate@justice.gov.uk.
While the introduction of this process is a welcome development, it is still important to ensure that probate applications are submitted accurately and with all the required documentation. Incomplete applications or missing information can still result in unnecessary delays.
At Smart Probate, we assist executors and families throughout the probate process, helping to prepare complete applications, respond to queries and minimise delays wherever possible. If your application has been delayed or you need professional support with obtaining a Grant of Probate, our experienced team is here to help.
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If your probate application has been delayed, or you would like expert assistance with making a new application, Smart Probate is here to help. Contact our team today to discuss your circumstances. Smart Probate is authorised by the ICAEW to provide probate services, and our team includes Chartered Tax Advisers, offering expert guidance on both probate and inheritance tax matters.