How Long Does a Genealogy Matter Take?
Our Genealogy staff are on hand to support you, even with limited information.
Understanding the timeline of a genealogy case is essential, especially when a person passed away some time ago, heirs are missing, or probate is involved. While every family story is unique, most cases follow a specific legal and research-driven path.
On average, a straightforward case can take 10 to 14 months, while complex cases involving international research or legal disputes can take significantly longer.
Our Commitment
We strive to move every case forward as efficiently as possible. Our primary duty is accuracy and legal compliance, so when the estate is settled, it is done securely and correctly for all rightful heirs.
1. Our Research
Before the probate process begins, family tree research must be carried out. We cannot proceed until every potential heir has been identified and verified.
- The Starting Point: The timeline generally depends on how much verified information is already available. If we are starting from a point of knowing nothing of the family, this phase takes several months.
- Verification: We don’t just rely on conjecture and family gossip; we must obtain original birth, marriage, and death certificates to meet the legal standards required by the courts and insurance providers.
2. The Probate Process
Once the genealogy research is finalised, if the deceased owns assets or a property, the probate process begins.
- Family Representation: Probate must be carried out by a designated family representative (the Executor in the event that a will is found or administrator if the estate is intestate).
- External Timings: The speed of probate is often dictated by government probate registries and the Inland Revenue, where applicable. Because these are third-party institutions, the timing is often outside of our control, and delays can often occur during certain periods.
3. The Statutory Waiting Period
After the Grant of Probate or Letter of Administration is obtained, there is a mandatory statutory waiting period.
- This is a set timeframe, typically 6 months, during which time the estate remains open.
- This delay exists to ensure that the estate safeguards itself from future liabilities and gives unknown creditors the opportunity to come forward.
4. Potential For Disputes & Claims
Even with thorough research, external factors can delay the process.
- Family Disputes: Disagreements between beneficiaries over asset distribution can halt proceedings.
- Third-Party Claims: Sometimes, individuals not initially identified may come forward asserting a valid claim against the estate. These claims must be legally examined and settled before any funds are distributed.
Transparency
We provide regular updates throughout each of these stages when and where possible. If an external delay occurs, such as a backlog at the Public Records Office or a delay in the Probate Registry, we will let you know as soon as we know so you are never left in the dark.
Summary of the Timeline
| Stage | Estimated Duration | Key Variables |
| Genealogy Research | 2–6 Months | Complexity of the tree/Availability of records. |
| Grant of Probate | 3–9 Months | Court backlogs and Executor efficiency. |
| Statutory Waiting Period | 6–10 Months | Fixed legal requirement. |
| Distribution | 1–2 Months | Final accounting and bank transfers. |
Speed Up the Process
While many aspects of the timeline are governed by law and archive response times, delays in the initial phase can be significantly reduced with your assistance. Providing documentation early prevents “search delays” and allows us to move straight to the verification stage.
You can help us move forward by supplying copies of the following:
- Proof of Identity: Providing your certified ID (such as a passport or driving licence) early ensures there are no administrative holdups when the time comes for final distribution.
- Vital Certificates: Any original or certified copies of family birth, marriage, and death certificates you already possess can save weeks of waiting for official registry office copies
- Marital History: Clear records or specific dates and locations of divorces or civil partnership dissolutions are vital for clarifying legal lineages.
- Family Knowledge: Even small details such as memories of an ancestor emigrating, a known name change, or a specific military service can provide the “missing link” that can cut down hours of unnecessary research.
Tracing heirs. Unlocking estates. Delivering certainty.
For help and advice call 020 8432 3101 or make an enquiry.