How do I get a copy of an old Will UK?
Get a Copy of a Will Before a Grant of Probate is Issued
You can do this by completing a free search on www.gov.uk/search-will-probate. If the Grant of Probate has already been issued, the Will is now a public document and you can get a copy from the Probate Registry.
How do I get a copy of a will in Scotland?
If you need help finding a will you could try:
- the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service – if a will has been registered with a court.
- Registers of Scotland – if a will has been registered in the Books of Council and Session.
- National Records of Scotland – for information on finding historical wills.
Can I get a copy of a UK Will?
You can order a copy of a will or grant of probate at any district probate registry. You will need to give the full name of the person who died, the date probate was granted and the name of the registry office where it was issued. The fee is £5.
Are UK Wills public record?
In general, a will is a private document unless and until a grant of probate is issued. Once a grant of probate has been issued, a will becomes a public document and anyone can apply to have a copy.
Can you request to see a copy of a will?
You can only see a copy of the will with their permission. After the testator has died, the rules on who is entitled to see a copy of a will depend on whether a grant of probate has been issued yet: Before probate is granted, only the executors of the will are entitled to read it.
Who is entitled to see a will after death UK?
After an individual has passed away, the executor who is the person or people who have been appointed in the will to administer the estate is the only person entitled to see the will and read its contents.
Who can request a copy of a will in Scotland?
Once confirmation has been granted and the will is registered with the court then it becomes a public document. This means that anyone can contact the relevant court and request a copy of the will for a small administration cost. Some estates do not require the grant of confirmation.
What happens if the original copy of a will is lost Scotland?
If a will is destroyed accidentally, it is not revoked and can still be declared valid if there is a copy available. Its validity would have to be proven in court. In addition it is always advisable that any new will should contain a clause revoking all previous wills and codicils.