Copy of a will

[JackiePS]

Does anyone know if I request a copy of a will is the executor or beneficeries made aware of this?

[emsyj]

Is it your own Will?? Are you requesting a copy from the solicitor who prepared/is storing it? I assume so.

If so, the answer is no: it's confidential and would only be released to the executor(s) after your death on production of a death certificate. When preparing a Will for someone, I would always advise them to inform the executors appointed (and ask if they're happy to take on that role) and preferably give the beneficiaries an idea of what they're getting, but there's no obligation to do either of those things and no right for the exors or bens to see or even know about the contents/existence of a Will during the testator's lifetime.

Does that help?

[YesMaam]

Has the person died and has probate been applied for?

You can apply for a copy of the will from the court where probate was lodged for a small fee. I have NO idea if the solicitor/executor/beneficaries would ever find out you have asked for a copy though and suggest you ask the court office (you could call them or go in person) as they would know. I suspect not but I don't know.

[emsyj]

If you're requesting a copy of the Grant of Probate (which will have a copy of the Will annexed to it) then no, the probate registry don't notify people that a copy has been requested - they've got enough admin to do! Wills in respect of which Probate has been granted are public documents in the same way that birth, marriage and death records are.

[JackiePS]

Some very useful answers. Thanks

[JackiePS]

As an afterthought: Yes, the person died at beginning of May. I think the executor is one of the beneficeries. I was thinking of contacting the probate registry in a few months to ensure it has been finalised, but I did not want the exec/bene to know.

[Collaborate]

There are all sorts of things to do before the will can be lodged in the probate registry. I understand 2 months is not enough time to leave.