Probate and Administration of Estates

The Probate Service

Warning - Probate Scams

Please be aware that there are currently several Probate scams in operation via the Internet. A number of these operate from countries outside the United Kingdom and the Isle of Man. Many of these will inform the recipient that they are the beneficiary of a substantial legacy but will ask for fees and/or taxes in advance of sending more information or the release of funds.

These will always be fraudulent and on no account should you make any payment or transfer any funds. You can obtain further information and advice concerning such scams on the Financial Supervision Commission website, or the Financial Crime Unit website. You will also find information about reporting such activity to the police, as the police may be able to close down the e-mail accounts concerned.

What is the Probate Office?

The Probate Office forms part of the Civil Division of the High Court. It deals with ‘non-contentious’ probate business, that is where there is no dispute about the validity of a will or entitlement to take a grant.