When someone close to us dies, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Sadly, at a time when it is natural to be grieving, there are also unavoidable practical matters to sort out. One of the first questions people often ask is: Was there a Will? And if so, where is it?

If you’re unsure whether a Will exists, or you’re struggling to locate it, there are steps you can take. You’re not alone in this, and help is available.

Start with their regular Solicitors

After checking for documents at home, the next logical check would be with any solicitors used by your loved one in life. It is common for people to return to the same solicitors time after time, using them for different issues such as both a house purchase and then for drafting a Will.

Contact your Local Law Societies

One of the simplest places to then consider is your local law society. These organisations often keep records of solicitors who practise in the area and may be able to point you in the direction of firms that your loved one used in the past.

Even if you’re not sure which solicitor they used, making enquiries with local law societies can help narrow things down. It’s worth asking whether any firms nearby hold a Will or have acted for your loved one previously.

Try a Certainty Search

If local enquiries don’t lead anywhere, you can carry out a search of the National Will Register, known as Certainty. This is a central database used by many solicitors across England and Wales to register Wills.

A Certainty search can help identify whether a Will was registered, and if so, which firm holds it. Even if the Will wasn’t registered, the search may still reveal useful leads. It’s a paid service, but many people find it reassuring to know they’ve checked thoroughly.

Gather What You Can

If you’re still unsure, try to collect any paperwork your loved one may have left behind. Old letters, invoices, or business cards from solicitors can be useful. Even if the firm no longer exists, its records may have been passed on to another practice.

Copies of Wills, even if not the final version, can also help. They may show which solicitor was involved or give clues about the contents. If you find any draft documents or correspondence, keep them safe and share them with a solicitor who can advise you.

Why It Matters

Finding the right Will is important. It confirms who should deal with the estate and how assets should be distributed. Without it, things can become complicated; especially if there are disagreements or uncertainty about what your loved one wanted.

It’s okay to feel unsure at first. These things take time but it’s also important to act sooner rather than later, especially if probate is required or if there are concerns about inheritance.

Final Thoughts

If you’re worried or confused, speak to a solicitor who specialises in probate and estate matters. They can guide you through the process and help you take the right steps. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.

Support is out there and you’re doing the right thing by asking questions.

If you have concerns about the valify of a Will or need assistance with your own estate planning, Gosschalks is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced solicitors.

Ben Marsden - ACTAPS, Paul Mounce, Sam Turner, Allanah Hutchinson & Ellen Boote