Updated Form Guidance Probate Registry

Re: New Grant of Representation Application Forms for Professionals

The Probate Registry confirm that having considered feedback we have reviewed  arrangements for new forms  in light of the current unprecedented situation regarding COVID-19 and have extended the transition period from 4 weeks to 8 weeks. This is to enable practitioners sufficient time to progress any inflight cases that you have already been working on.

We would advise that any new work which is undertaken should now be completed by either using the new paper application forms (electronic signatures including typed signatures will be accepted) or applying online. HMCTS is actively encouraging the use of online applications as this enables us to maintain the service whilst many of our staff are also remote working.

Some of the feedback received questioned why we are introducing the new forms when everyone in the system is under so much pressure. The overriding reason is to enable us to utilise our bulk scanning service which digitises the paper applications and allows us to work remotely.  This will help ensure your clients still receive their grants during this significant disruption to our normal business.

The revised timeline for the introduction of the new forms

• The forms were introduced on 23^rd March 2020
• The time that the Probate Registries will be permitted to accept the old-style Statements of Truth, will be 8 weeks (extended from the previous 4 weeks suggested)
• After the 8-week period (after 18^th May 2020), if any applications with separate Statements of Truth are received they will be returned requesting the appropriate new combined form.

You can apply online

We would like to take this opportunity again to confirm that the digital process can support the remote working that is currently taking place, if you want to apply for a grant of representation or caveat online, please visit:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/hmcts-online-services-for-legal-professionals

Further information

We are currently considering other elements of our practices to see if any interim measures can be introduced to help you continue to operate during this pandemic and I hope to be able to share more news over the coming days.