The number of individuals dying without a valid will is increasing sharply, creating added complexity for those involved in estate administration.
According to recent data, 51,136 Grants of Letters of Administration were issued across England and Wales in the 2023/24 financial year, the highest volume seen in the last five years and a 17.3% increase on the previous year’s figures.
The trajectory over recent reporting periods illustrates a noticeable upward curve:
- 2020/21: 40,738 grants
- 2021/22: 38,102 (▼ 6.5%)
- 2022/23: 43,597 (▲ 14.4%)
- 2023/24: 51,136 (▲ 17.3%)
This represents an overall increase of 34% within just two years.
In the absence of a valid will, estates must be administered under the rules of intestacy, a process that can be legally and administratively demanding. Without clear instructions from the deceased, delays are more likely, costs can escalate, and identifying rightful heirs can become a complex undertaking.
In these circumstances, the role of probate genealogists becomes essential. At Anglia Research Services, we assist legal professionals and estate administrators by tracing entitled heirs in both intestate and testate matters. Our work ensures that beneficiaries are accurately identified and estates are distributed in accordance with inheritance law in England and Wales.
With intestacy cases on the rise, it’s never been more important to have trusted research partners in place. For guidance or support on a current matter, our team is always available to assist.
Feel free to contact our dedicated Private Client team who deal solely with instructions received from legal professionals on legal@angliaresearch.co.uk or call on 0800 033 4034.
