Letter(s) regarding existence of a Will. Advice please!

[erebus]

To the DD of the deceased:

Dear 'x',

I hope you are well.

I have been asked by family members to enquire as to whether 'y' left a will, and to ask with whom is it lodged.

Many thanks,

Erebus

Then, assuming she tells me:

Dear Solicitors.

I understand that the Will of 'y' of village A. who died on dd/mm/yy was lodged with you.

I would be grateful if you could send me a copy of this will as there may be a matter that we wish to discuss further.

Yours

etc.

What do you think? I know it all sounds simple, but, in fact, I am trying to only put down what I need to. CAN I ask for a copy of the will? Do I have to prove that I might have an interest or could anyone ask? Should I even mention that we may be about to contest it?? (the 'matter').

The DD is known to me, but not particularly well, so I don't feel the need to go into great shenanigans about her grieving process (her mother, incidentally, was 96 so not a sudden, unexpected death).

Thanks.

[countydurhamlass]

you can't get a copy of a will from a solicitors unless you are the executor

[prh47bridge]

If probate has been granted you can get a copy of the will from the probate registry - details here

[erebus]

How does anyone get to find out that there may be a problem with a Will unless they can actually get to see it? Serious question.

Not sure about probate- how long does it take for a Will to be posted on the registry?

Thanks.

[partystress]

My recent experience (after complicated, coroner involved type death) was that probate took about 5 months. There was a period of 6 months I think after probate that the proceeds could not be distributed in case it was challenged.

[partystress]

I also vaguely recall something called the Official Gazette where details had to be published.

[cookcleanerchaufferetc]

What about asking the funeral directors if they know who the solicitors are? No idea I am afraid if they would tell you ..

[SaveWaterDrinkWine]

Could not just tell the daughter your reasons for asking about the contents of the Will?

You could try ringing round the Solicitors near to where the deceased resided - they will be able to tell you whether or not they hold a Will. Unless you are a named Executor or Residual Beneficiary, you will not normally be supplied with a copy.

Could you briefly, without going into too much detail, explain what your concerns are as I may be able to assist further.