Off topic. One for the legal experts, probate etc.

[Sara_H]

I want to find out the value of the estate left by a relative who died in 1993. And how it was distributed.

All I know is the relatives, name, address and year of death. I know that the relative had not left a will.

Where do I start?

 

[chqshaitan]

just done a quick google bud and came across the following

 

[ASC1951]

I want to find out the value of the estate left by a relative who died in 1993. And how it was distributed.

The general rule on intestacy is that you go down the list of relatives in a defined order, and as soon as there is someone alive the whole estate is divided between everyone at that level. So don't go building your hopes up.

It's a tad more complex than that, of course. Here is a useful summary of the 'chain of devolution'
http://features.withersworldwide.com/system/files/uploads/2011/01/12/25/intestacy_chart_jan_2011.pdf
Not that you would want to take the matter to Withers - IIRC they act for HM the Queen, who can afford their fees.

 

[laurence]

as ASC1951 said, there is a list of distribution for intestacy.

the probate will give details of the value of the estate, but not who it was given to. it will also give you details of who took out the grant - this is, again, determined by who has the 'right' to (even more limited as there is no Will).

Withers are great lawyers, they do a lot of work for charities involving probate and legacies and hold free seminars on the subjects, i went to one a few weeks ago.

 

[ASC1951]

Withers are great lawyers....

They are indeed. A fine firm with a long and illustrious history, doing the job the way it should be done rather than chasing after publicity and the next mega-deal. That is why the Queen instructs them.