The House of Commons Justice Committee have made enquiries into the probate registry’s performance and services due to the ongoing concerns and delays.

STEP have issued a response to this inquiry and concluded that the underlying problems facing the probate registry are:

• A lack of experienced staff; and

• A lack of straightforward and efficient lines of communication.

STEP surveyed its members in England and Wales and found (inter alia):

• 100% of respondents have seen cases where sales of properties are cancelled due to delays at the probate registry.

• 89% of respondents felt that little to no support is offered to the individuals engaging with the probate registry. This is exacerbated by digitalisation of the probate process which has negatively impacted those who struggle to use technology, specifically the elderly.

• 61% of respondents felt that delays are caused by inexperienced staff who cannot handle complex cases.

STEP propose that the probate registry look to recruit experienced staff and provide further training to existing staff as a matter of priority.

If you would like to read more, STEP’s consultation response to the Justice Committee’s inquiry into the probate service can be found here.

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