Obtaining a copy of the Will

When a Will is made, the Executors are usually told where the Will is stored.

How to find a Will

When a Will is made, the Executor/s are usually told where the Will is stored. If a Solicitor, Lawyer or other professional has drafted the Will, then it will normally be held with them.

Executors of the Will are entitled to obtain it from the Solicitor. It’s also possible that a bank may be storing the Will.

The Executors will have to prove that they are who they say they are (providing proof of identity) and provide evidence of the death (by showing the death certificate) before the Will can be released.

Initially, it is only the Executors who are entitled to the Will, and they do not have to disclose the contents of the Will straightaway. However, they might not be able to close accounts or sell assets such as property and shares until the Court has issued a Grant of Representation, this being confirmation of the Executor’s legal authority to administer the Estate.

When the Grant has been issued the Will becomes a public document and anyone can apply to the Court to get a copy of the Will.

Also see: Executors: How to read a will when someone dies

Specialist probate solicitors

Many of our Probate Solicitors, Lawyers and Probate Case Managers are members of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP). All STEP members are subject to an extensive Code of Professional Conduct, requiring them at all times to act with integrity and in a manner that inspires the confidence, respect and trust of their clients and of the wider community.

Probate Solicitors and Local Probate Consultants are available in England and Wales only for customers using our Probate Complete Service.

Co-op Legal Services has over 600 staff working in different businesses with offices in Manchester, Bristol, Stratford-upon-Avon, Sheffield and London.

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Authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority

Estate administration in England and Wales is not a reserved legal activity which means that unregulated providers can offer estate administration services regardless of whether they are insured, experienced or qualified to provide a full service.

Co-op Legal Services is a trading name for Co-operative Legal Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, giving you peace of mind knowing that your estate administration affairs are being dealt with by a regulated organisation and a brand you know and trust.