From Initial Research to Estate Distribution

Every estate is different, and no two family histories are the same. Some matters can be resolved within a few months, whilst more complex estates involving overseas beneficiaries, missing family members or property sales may take considerably longer.



Below is a typical overview of the probate genealogy and beneficiary tracing process, showing how Harrisons Private Client Solutions supports families, executors and professional advisers from the initial instruction through to the final distribution of the estate.

Timescales

Stage 1 - Estate Instruction

Timescale: Day 1

Stage 2 - Family History Research

Timescale: 1-4 Weeks

Stage 3 -Beneficiary Verification

Timescale: 2-12 Weeks

Stage 4 -Contacting Beneficiaries

Timescale: Throughout the Process

Stage 5 -Identity Verification

Typical Timescale: 1-3 Weeks

Stage 6 -Probate & Estate Administration

Typical Timescale: 3-12+ Months

Stage 7 -Estate Distribution

Typical Timescale: 6-18+ Months

Every Estate Is Different

Timescales Can Vary

Stage 1 -Estate Instruction

Typical Timescale: Day 1

We receive instructions from an executor, solicitor, local authority, Court of Protection professional or estate administrator requiring assistance identifying or tracing beneficiaries.


At this stage we:


  • Review the available information.
  • Assess the family history.
  • Establish the scope of research.
  • Begin planning the investigation.


Stage 2 -Family History Research

Typical Timescale: 1-4 Weeks

Our specialist probate genealogists begin researching the deceased's family tree.

Research may include:

  • Birth, marriage and death certificates
  • Census records
  • Electoral registers
  • Probate records
  • Historical archives
  • Overseas records
  • Newspaper archives
  • Military records

Our aim is to identify every individual who may be legally entitled to inherit.

Stage 3 -Beneficiary Verification

Typical Timescale: 2-12 Weeks

Once potential beneficiaries have been identified, we carefully verify every family relationship.

This protects the estate by ensuring inheritance is distributed correctly.


We may:

  • Obtain further certificates.
  • Verify family connections.
  • Resolve discrepancies.
  • Carry out overseas research.
  • Produce detailed family tree reports.



Stage 4 -Contacting Beneficiaries

Typical Timescale: Throughout Process

Once entitlement has been established, we contact beneficiaries.


We explain:

  • Why we've contacted them.
  • Their potential entitlement.
  • The next steps.
  • Any documentation required.



Beneficiaries are invited to visit our online Resource Centre where they can access guidance, upload documents and follow the progress of their case.

Stage 5 -Identity Verification

Typical Timescale: 1-3 Weeks

To protect the estate and comply with legal requirements, beneficiaries are asked to provide:


  • Proof of identity
  • Proof of address
  • Supporting family information (where required)



Documents can be securely uploaded through our online Document Upload Centre.

Stage 6 -Probate & Estate Administration

Typical Timescale: 3-12+ Months

While family research may be complete, the estate itself still needs to progress through probate.

This often includes:


  • Obtaining the Grant of Probate or Letters of Administration
  • Collecting estate assets
  • Property valuations
  • Financial asset searches
  • Paying debts and liabilities
  • Inheritance Tax administration
  • Property sales where necessary



The overall timescale depends upon the complexity of the estate.

Stage 7 -Estate Distribution

Typical Timescale: 6-18+ Months

Once probate has been completed and all estate matters resolved:


  • Final estate accounts are prepared.
  • Beneficiaries receive their inheritance.
  • The estate is formally concluded.



For larger or more complex estates, this stage may take longer, particularly where property sales or overseas assets are involved.

Every Estate Is Different

The timeline above represents a typical estate.


Actual timescales may vary depending upon:


  • The size of the estate.
  • Number of beneficiaries.
  • Missing family members.
  • International research.
  • Property sales.
  • Probate Registry processing times.
  • Tax matters.
  • Third-party organisations.



Our team will keep beneficiaries informed throughout the process and provide updates whenever significant progress is made.

Helpful Resources

Still Have Questions?

If you have any questions about your case or the probate process, our dedicated Client Care Team is here to help.