A Letter of Administration without Will, often referred to as "intestate administration," is a legal document issued by a probate court in the UK. This document grants authority to an individual, typically a close relative, to manage and distribute the estate of someone who has died without leaving a valid will. The process ensures that the deceased's estate is handled according to the rules of intestacy set out in UK law.
When a person dies intestate, meaning without a will, their estate is distributed according to a predefined hierarchy. The spouse or civil partner of the deceased is usually the first in line, followed by children, parents, siblings, and other relatives. The Letter of Administration is necessary for accessing bank accounts, selling property, and settling debts, among other administrative tasks.
To obtain a Letter of Administration, the applicant must apply to the Probate Registry. The process involves completing various forms, including the PA1A form, and providing relevant documents such as the death certificate and details of the estate's value. A fee is usually required, and the applicant may need to attend an interview.
Once granted, the administrator has similar responsibilities to an executor named in a will. They must collect the estate’s assets, pay any debts and taxes, and distribute the remaining assets according to the intestacy rules.
A Letter of Administration without Will is crucial for managing the estate of someone who dies intestate in the UK. It ensures that the estate is handled legally and fairly, following the statutory guidelines designed to reflect the likely wishes of the deceased.
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