Grant of Probate

A Grant of Probate is issued to an Executor who has been appointed under a Will. With the permission of the deceased given, it allows the Executor to carry out the necessary transactions required to meet the specifications of the Will.

Learn more about applying for probate.

Letters of Administration

If no Will has been created and the Intestacy Rules come into effect, the type of grant issued is known as Letters of Administration. Various parties can apply for this type of grant but there is an order of priority which determines to whom it will be finally issued.

There are a number of other types of Grant such as Emergency Grants to protect the Estate or Grants made where other relevant legal proceedings exist.

For advice from our Wills and Probate solicitors in Northampton and Milton Keynes, please get in touch.

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When Do You Need a Grant of Representation?

You usually need a Grant of Representation to sell a property, close bank accounts, or collect assets worth more than £5,000.
Some organisations release smaller balances without a grant, but larger or jointly held assets normally require one.

If you’re unsure whether a grant is needed for your situation, our solicitors can review the estate details and confirm the best next step.

Do I Need a Solicitor for a Grant of Representation?

You don’t always need a solicitor to apply for a Grant of Representation, but the process can be complex and emotionally challenging.

Our probate solicitors can guide you through each step, help you avoid delays, and ensure the estate is handled correctly according to the law.

How to Apply for a Grant of Representation

To apply, you’ll need to:

  1. Value the estate and check if a Grant is required

  2. Complete the relevant probate application form

  3. Pay the application fee

  4. Submit the Will and death certificate

We can manage the process for you and ensure all documents are prepared correctly before submission.
Typical timeframe: Grants usually take 4–6 weeks once all documents are accepted.

Avoiding Delays in Your Application

Many applications are returned because of missing inheritance-tax forms or incorrect estate valuations.
Submitting the wrong paperwork can add weeks to the process.

Our team ensures every form is completed correctly first time, helping your grant to be issued as quickly as possible. We act for clients across Northampton, Milton Keynes, and the surrounding areas, providing clear, sensitive advice on probate and estate matters.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Grants of Representation

What is a Grant of Representation?

The generic term given to grants of probate and letters of administration (i.e. no Will).

When is a grant of representation necessary?

When selling real property, shares and closing down bank accounts.

Is grant of representation the same as grant for probate?

Yes.

What assets require a grant of representation?

This would depend on the company or organisation concerned.

Who is entitled to apply for a grant of representation?

Executors of a Will or relatives entitled in intestacy.

How long does a grant of representation take?

Grant of representation would typically take 4 to 6 weeks. However it could take longer.

Contact the Franklins Wills, Trusts and Probate team

If you have any questions about grants of representation, please don’t hesitate to contact our team of experts who are on hand and ready to help you.