A temporary change has been made to the Probate process in light of the social distancing restrictions.
Usually an Oath needs to be sworn in front of a solicitor and lodged with the Probate Office to obtain a Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration. Guidance has been issued recently indicating that a Statement of Truth which is signed by the person applying for the Grant rather than sworn in front of a solicitor will be accepted by the Probate Office if it is not possible to follow the usual procedure.
This is a welcome move for probate practitioners in Northern Ireland as it allows the process of administering estates to be advanced in the current circumstances.
Please contact Cathy Warnock for more information.