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Probate Direct

Understanding Probate in Northern Ireland

Everything you need to know about applying for a Grant of Probate without expensive solicitors

What is Probate?

Probate is the legal process of administering the estate of someone who has died. In Northern Ireland, this involves obtaining a Grant of Probate (if there's a will) or Letters of Administration (if there's no will) from the Probate Office.

This legal document gives you (the executor or administrator) the authority to access the deceased's assets, pay any outstanding debts, and distribute the estate to the beneficiaries according to the will or the rules of intestacy.

Good news: Not all estates require probate. Small estates (typically under £10,000) may not need formal probate proceedings.

The Probate Process in Northern Ireland

1
Register the Death
Obtain the death certificate from the Registrar of Births and Deaths. You'll need this for all subsequent steps.
Typical time: 1-5 days
2
Locate the Original Will
Find the original will (if one exists). Check with the deceased's solicitor, bank, or at home. If a solicitor refuses to release the will to you as executor, you can report them to the Law Society of Northern Ireland. The original will must be submitted to the Probate Office.
Typical time: Varies
3
Value the Estate
Calculate the total value of all assets (property, bank accounts, investments, personal belongings) and liabilities (debts, mortgages, loans).
Typical time: 2-4 weeks
4
Complete the Forms
Fill out the probate application form (NIPF7). This is where Probate Direct helps you.
Typical time: 1-2 hours with Probate Direct
5
Submit to Probate Office
Send your completed forms, original will, death certificate, and court fee (£310 plus £77 personal application fee for estates over £10,000) to the Probate Office in Belfast.
Typical time: 1 day
6
Receive Grant of Probate
The Probate Office reviews your application and issues the Grant of Probate, giving you legal authority to administer the estate.
Typical time: 4-8 weeks
7
Administer the Estate
Use the Grant to access accounts, sell property if needed, pay debts and taxes, and distribute assets to beneficiaries.
Typical time: 3-12 months

Required Documents

Original Death Certificate

Certified copy from the Registrar

Original Will

If the deceased left a will

NIPF7 Estates Summary Form

Completed and ready to submit

Bank Statements

Showing account balances at date of death

Property Valuations

Professional valuations for property and land

Investment Statements

Stocks, shares, and pension valuations

Debt Documentation

Outstanding mortgages, loans, and bills

Costs Involved

Traditional Solicitor Route
Solicitor fees£2,000 - £5,000+
Court fee (£310 + £77 personal application)£387
Additional costs£200 - £500
Total£2,510 - £5,810+
Probate Direct Route
Probate Direct service£395
Court fee (£310 + £77 personal application)£387
Additional costs£0
Total£705

Save £1,805 - £5,105 compared to solicitors

Why Choose Probate Direct?

100% Money-Back Guarantee
If we can't help you complete your probate application, we'll refund your full payment.
Fixed Fee of £395
No hidden costs, no hourly rates, no surprises. You know exactly what you'll pay upfront.
All Documents Included
Receive completed NIPF7, Excel spreadsheet, and step-by-step submission guide.
Complete in 30-60 Minutes
Our intelligent questionnaire guides you through every question, making the process simple and fast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to Get Started?

Complete your probate application in 30-60 minutes. Save thousands compared to solicitors. 100% money-back guarantee.

Fixed fee of £395 • All documents included •

Still Have Questions?

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