The HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) recently published its monthly management information on probate applications, revealing a significant improvement in processing times. In July 2024, the average time to process a probate application was 9.3 weeks, a significant decrease from the 14-week average reported in July 2023.
Delays can cause issues for an estate, for example holding up the sale of the deceased’s property, at what is already an emotional and stressful time for the family. This reduction is therefore a positive development, offering some much-needed relief to families navigating the complexities of estate administration, and there is hope that the process time continues to reduce going forwards.
The impact of delays on families and estates
While this improvement is indeed welcome, the journey through probate remains a challenging and emotionally taxing process for many families. Delays in processing applications can exacerbate these difficulties, particularly when it comes to managing the estate's assets. For example, if the sale of the deceased’s property is delayed due to prolonged probate processing, it can lead to financial strain on the estate, potentially causing additional stress for grieving families.
Moreover, prolonged probate timelines can affect the timely distribution of assets to beneficiaries, which is crucial for those who may be depending on those funds. For executors, who are often family members or close friends of the deceased, these delays can add to the already significant burden of administering an estate.
Heading in the right direction
As we approach the upcoming Budget on 30 October 2024, there is a sense of uncertainty regarding the economic outlook. With potential tax increases, the prospect of additional financial burdens is a cause for concern for many. In this context, it would be helpful to give families the peace of mind that probate applications will be turned around in a prompt timeframe.
At least it appears we are heading in the right direction.
The next step
Continued efforts to streamline probate applications will be crucial in providing the peace of mind that families deserve during such a challenging time. For any enquiries about this, please contact Nick Edwards on n.edwards@uhy-uk.com or your local UHY probate adviser.
