The authenticity of a deceased person's will is proof that a court can prove.A record can be helpful in genealogy research.You might want to look for more recent records of someone you know.In the UK, British Commonwealth countries and the US, similar processes are used.The process of finding and ordering copies of the records depends on how old they are.Historical records are typically archives, but more recent records may still be at the court that probated the estate.
Step 1: You can use an online genealogy service to find records.
If you're doing genealogy, an online service can help you organize your family tree and locate probate records that will help with your search.Some of the services are free, while others require a subscription.You can use commercial genealogy services for free if you have a subscription to your local public library.Free services have access to less records and files than commercial services.Try a free service if you can't get a subscription.It's still possible to identify helpful records with a subscription-based service, even if you have to do a little more work.
Step 2: Determine which archives have the record.
Depending on the year the record was created and the location of the court that handled the probate, historic records can be found in different government offices.The oldest records are usually kept in national archives of the country where the person died, while the more recent records can be found in a local office.Depending on the year of the record, historic probate records can be found in state or county archives.
Step 3: Search for the record.
There is an online index for historical probate records.Gather as much information as possible about the record you're looking for, including the full name of the deceased and the year of their death.You can fill out a search order if an online search isn't available.They will notify you if a record matches your search criteria.
Step 4: You can get a copy of the record from the archives.
You can fill out a form at the archives or records office to get a copy of the probate record.If you are related to the deceased, you don't have to prove it.Provide basic personal information and an address where the copy can be mailed.To get a copy of the record, you'll have to pay a fee.You may be able to print it out for free if the record has been digital.
Step 5: Information about the deceased should be gathered.
There are likely more recent files in the court records.The records can be accessed by the public, but you may need more information about the deceased and the case to find the correct record.The date of death, address, location, and court case number are some of the information that can be obtained.
Step 6: You can conduct an online search.
Many court clerks have online databases.Check the court's website for an online search if you want to find out where the case was filed.Find out where the person died if you don't have the court name.Look up the name of the court.
Step 7: The will was handled by the clerk of the court.
The most recent files will be located at the courthouse.If you give the court your full name and year of death, they can give you a copy of the record.The court case number is required by some clerks.Ask the clerk how you can find the case number if you don't have that number.You could use an online index to get the case number.
Step 8: If the probate hasn't been granted, set up a standing search.
If the person has died, courts in some countries, such as the UK, allow you to request a standing search for the probate record.A copy of the record will be sent to you.A fee is required for a standing search.The fee is $10 in the UK.The standing order can be extended for another 6 months with the payment of an additional fee.