HM Courts & Tribunals Service have recently announced changes in how to apply for, and extend, a caveat.
A caveat is a written notice that prevents a Grant of Probate or Grant of Letters of Administration being issued until the caveat is removed. It lasts for six months (unless it is removed early or extended).
A caveat can be entered by any person who has an interest in an estate where they doubt the validity of a will, believe that the deceased did not die intestate, object to a grant being issued to a particular person or wish to begin a claim.
From 25 October 2022 practitioners and personal applicants will need to use Form PA8A to enter a caveat and Form PA8B to apply for an extension to a caveat. These changes come into effect on 25 October 2022.
Failure to use the correct procedure may lead to adverse consequences; the protection offered by a caveat could be lost and a Grant issued which would allow the personal representatives to proceed with the administration of the estate.
If you have questions about caveats or concerns about an estate, please contact us and we will be happy to assist you.