A grant of probate (also known as a grant of representation)  is usually required for all estates but there are some exceptions:

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• The estate is valued at under £5000.00

• There is no property involved

• The assets were held jointly with a surviving person

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The grant is mainly required to deal with any property that has been left to the beneficiaries.  The executors will need legal proof that the estate is owned by the deceased in order to liquidate the assets for distribution. 

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There are certain types of property that are excluded from the grant of probate,

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Joint Tenants - the property passes to the surviving person.

Property which has been subject to a lifetime gift, although this has conditions that must have been met.

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