Scotland - Gradmother's Estate Question

oompahloompah

Hello
I know in Scots Law that I am entitled to my deceased mum's share of her parents' estate (no will) - my question is this - another family member I don't talk to is dealing with the estate and I don't know how long the process takes to sort everything out. There is a wee bit of money but no property.
Am I entitled to contact the Sheriff Court to ask about how things are progressing, or would they contact me in any way to let me know it had been sorted out?
Thanks

wallacebob

Easy thing to do is contact the solicitor who is dealing with it. Just to make sure they have your current address etc? That way you bypass family, and make your presence known to the executor. The executor has an obligation to carry out the wishes of the deceased and ensure legal division of estate.
Timescale? -Depends on how complicated the estate is, but 6 months is normal to allow claims for debts, and to sort out bank accounts, shares etc. The banks can some times allow early settlement if the estate is small and uncomplicated.
Sorry for your loss, it is these times that show the need for wills and proper use of solicitors.
Maybe this is a chance to sort out the family troubles?

s12s

If your grandmothers estate is intestate(no will) then it can take a while, there needs to be a bond of caution and that increases the time. The sheriff court can, for a small fee, give you a copy of the confirmation, when it has been processed, but the sheriff court will not contact you. The bond of caution application would have to be completed with you as a beneficiary so you should receive your share. I assume there is a solicitor involved in the estate? If so then you should contact them direct and just ask what stage it is at. Estates are not distributed before 6 months as creditors have a claim up to 6 months after death. I can tell you more specifics if you need.