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Standing Search

Also known as: Probate Standing Search, Grant Search

Definition

A standing search is a formal request to the Probate Registry to automatically notify you if a grant of probate or letters of administration is issued for a specific deceased person's estate within a six-month period.

For just £3, you can monitor when probate is granted without repeatedly contacting the executor or registry. This is particularly valuable for potential beneficiaries, creditors, and anyone considering an Inheritance Act claim.

What Does Standing Search Mean?

Under Rule 43 of The Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987, anyone can apply for a standing search by completing Form PA1S with a £3 fee. You don't need to prove beneficiary status or legal interest. The registry creates a monitoring alert for the deceased.

Complete Form PA1S with the deceased's name, date of death, and last address. Send it to Leeds with £3 payment. The registry checks backwards 12 months for existing grants and forwards six months for new grants issued during monitoring.

If a grant is issued, you automatically receive an office copy by post—along with the will if one exists. Notification happens within days. Sarah's standing search cost £3 in March. When probate was granted in July, she received the documents and discovered she'd inherited her uncle's £2,000 book collection.

You can extend your search by applying again during the final month before expiry. Each extension costs £3 and provides six more months. Set a reminder for month five.

Common Questions

"How long does a standing search last and can I renew it?"

A standing search remains active for six months. You'll automatically receive any grant issued during this period. You can extend by submitting a renewal application with £3 during the final month. Missing the renewal window means starting over.

"What's the difference between a standing search and a caveat?"

A standing search notifies you when probate is issued but doesn't prevent it. A caveat actively blocks probate and is used to challenge the will's validity or executor's appointment. Standing searches are informational; caveats are defensive blocking tools.

"Can anyone apply for a standing search or do you need to be a beneficiary?"

Anyone can apply for a standing search. You don't need beneficiary status or legal interest. Common applicants include potential beneficiaries, creditors, and Inheritance Act claimants. The registry doesn't notify the executor—it's confidential.

Common Misconceptions

Myth: A standing search will stop the executor from getting probate if I'm unhappy with the will.

Reality: A standing search is purely informational—it doesn't block or delay probate. To prevent a grant while investigating validity concerns, enter a caveat instead. Standing searches only notify you when the grant issues, allowing subsequent action if you have grounds to challenge.

Myth: You can only apply for a standing search if you're named in the will or closely related to the deceased.

Reality: Anyone can apply—no proof of beneficiary or relative status required. The 1987 Rules state "any person who wishes to be notified" can enter a search. This allows creditors to protect claims, Inheritance Act claimants to monitor timing, and distant relatives to check for bequests. "Standing" refers to ongoing monitoring, not legal standing.

  • Probate Registry: Where you submit standing search applications and grants are issued.
  • Grant of Probate: The document standing searches monitor—you receive a copy if issued during your search.
  • Estate Administration: Managing a deceased's affairs—standing searches help creditors and beneficiaries monitor progress.
  • Executor: The person administering the estate, whose identity you learn from the grant copy.

Need Help with Your Will?

Understanding standing searches shows the importance of clear executor guidance. When beneficiaries need monitoring tools, it signals communication problems in estate administration.

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Legal Disclaimer:

This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. WUHLD is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Laws and guidance change and their application depends on your circumstances. For advice about your situation, consult a qualified solicitor or regulated professional. Unless stated otherwise, information relates to England and Wales.