Parents Deceased - No will

dh247

Hi,

I have been doing some searching for my partners mother, into the 'estate' of her parents.

Both of her parents are deceased - we discovered this only recently, although the deaths were in 2007 / 2008.

We received the obituaries from the local newspapers, confirming this.

We then sent 2 applications for each of their will's. We have had a response from each request to say that no will can be found.

She has no brother or sisters, so in my mind without the presence of a will, any posessions etc. should legally be hers? Firstly - am I correct?

Secondly, how would she go about finding what was left, as it must surely have gone into someones posession?

The main desire she has is to reclaim any photographs left and family items. We do not envisage there being much in the way of money or property.

Anyone with info is greatly appreciated in helping out.

Thanks
dh247

benjaminM

In the event that there is no will the estate will be subject to the laws of intestacy. I would be inclined to seek legal advice to see where you stand. If your partner is the only sole surviving family member in normal circumstances it is possible she would inheritate the estate. It is, however, possible that there may have been claims to the estate, espcially as a few years have now lapsed.

Click on the link for guidance and make an appointment with a solicitor.

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizensandrights/Death/Preparation/DG_10029802