The HM Courts & Tribunals Service has rolled out its online service for applying for probate.
As part of a £1bn programme of court reform people can now apply, pay and swear a statement of truth online.
According to HMCTS chief executive Susan Acland-Hood it also means that, for most people, a visit to a probate registry or solicitor’s office is no longer needed, speeding up the process while making it more straightforward and efficient.
Ms Acland-Hood said: "Making probate simpler and more convenient, and removing the need to attend a probate registry and swear an oath in person, helps bereaved people at a very challenging time - those who have tested our new service have told us how much difference it makes.
"I am delighted we are now able to offer this new, simpler way of doing probate to the public at large. It is part of the work we’re doing to make the justice system easier to navigate for everyone."
The service has already been successfully trialled "by invitation".
HMCTS will add more features in time – including the ability to apply if the deceased did not leave a will. Feedback is encouraged and changes and improvements will be made where needed.
emma.hughes@ft.com
