How long does the probate process normally take?
The probate process can take months or in some instances years; the time period depends on numerous factors. Some of these factors include: the size of the estate, the length and time taken to locate and validate the Will, the time taken to appoint an administrator in the absence of a Will and the length of time taken to find and notify all beneficiaries. In addition, if the Will is contested, the probate process may be tied up for years, but in any event until all matters are resolved.
The probate process usually takes at least seven months but the time period generally depends on a number of factors such as the size of the estate, the length of time taken to locate and validate the will, the length of time taken to appoint an executor in the absence of a will, and the length of time taken to find and notify all beneficiaries. If the will is then contested, probate can go on for even longer until matters have been resolved, and so the process could end up taking years.
