Death, legal aid and probate

Em_by_the_sea_side

Good morning

My mother in law has recently passed away and my husband and I are in the process of pulling together all the relevant information regarding her estate.

Firstly there is an outstanding legal aid bill. Will this be repaid from the sale of her home? She had recently been paying it back monthly.

Also as there is not a will we assume we just go through probate. Is this correct?

Thank in advance.

g6jns_2

Em_by_the_sea_side wrote: »

Good morning

My mother in law has recently passed away and my husband and I are in the process of pulling together all the relevant information regarding her estate.

Firstly there is an outstanding legal aid bill. Will this be repaid from the sale of her home? She had recently been paying it back monthly.

Also as there is not a will we assume we just go through probate. Is this correct?

Thank in advance.

As your MIL died intestate (No will) someone has to apply for letters of administration. The estate has to be distributed according to the rules governing intestacy. The legal aid debt will have to be paid out of the estate along with any other debts such as the funeral costs. Your first task is to ask the Probate Office for the application forms. Start here

https://www.gov.uk/wills-probate-inheritance/overview

Em_by_the_sea_side

Thanks g6jns. It's just a minefield when you're already not thinking straight!

Mojisola

It can be overwhelming, especially the first time you have to deal with it.

Have you seen the sticky at the top of this board -
https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/4896302

Em_by_the_sea_side

Thank Mojisola - that's a great help!