When the estate of a deceased man with no known relatives or will was referred to Anglia Research, it appeared to be a routine case of intestacy. With an estate valued at around £350,000, including a substantial share portfolio, the process seemed simple: identify the next of kin and distribute the estate according to the intestacy rules.
The man, a former member of the armed forces, was unmarried and childless. Research quickly established that he had a surviving sister, making her the sole beneficiary under intestacy law in England and Wales. On the surface, everything pointed towards her receiving the full estate.
But something didn’t quite add up.
Drawing on their experience of similar cases, the probate researcher handling the case couldn’t shake the feeling that a will might exist. The nature of the estate and the man’s background suggested he may have taken formal steps to record his wishes. Acting on that hunch, the researcher submitted a Will Search Combined through The National Will Register.
The search uncovered a valid will held by a firm in Southampton, where the deceased had lived. The implications were profound: instead of the sister inheriting the entire estate, the will directed that her children, the deceased’s niece and nephew, were to benefit instead.
While the legal shift from sister to niece and nephew was relatively subtle, the human impact was substantial. The deceased’s wishes were respected, the potential for dispute was avoided, and certainty was restored to the process. Probate was ultimately granted as an admon with will.
This case underlines the value of a will search – even when a case appears straightforward. It shows how professional instinct, backed by The National Will Register, can ensure testamentary wishes are upheld, protect families, and provide peace of mind for all involved.
If you are ever in a similar situation with a client, please reach out to our will search team who can help advise, allowing you to provide that same level of service and protection to your clients