The recent statistics from HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) reveal a significant enhancement in the processing efficiency of the Probate Service, demonstrating a substantial reduction in delays.
In July 2024, HMCTS processed 32,002 probate applications, which is an increase of nearly 9,000 applications compared to the previous year. Notably, the service received 27,807 applications during the same month, marking the highest figures in the last 12 months.
The average processing time for an application has decreased to 9.3 weeks, a significant improvement from the peak delay of 15.8 weeks recorded in November 2023. Digital applications are further expediting the process, with an average processing time of 7.5 weeks and just 3.4 weeks for applications without any stoppages. Conversely, paper applications take considerably longer, averaging 18.4 weeks, although this reduces to 12.3 weeks when not stopped. Despite these advancements, 19% of applications in July 2024 were still submitted on paper.
The president of the Law Society, Nick Emmerson, expressed cautious optimism, stating, ‘The decrease in probate delays is promising, but more should be done.’ He emphasised the distress caused by delays during times of mourning, urging further improvements.
These gains can be attributed to HMCTS’s strategic engagement with its probate professional user group, incorporating feedback to enhance service delivery. Jo Summers from the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) noted the positive impact of the HM Revenue & Customs’ introduction of a code system in January to address inheritance tax-related stoppages. This development has freed more staff to focus on processing grants, with HMRC streamlining operations by emailing necessary codes to applicants.
Efforts are ongoing to address remaining delays, particularly those caused by unaccounted named executors. HMCTS also plans to increase the number of online intestacy applications, simplifying processes for cases such as sibling inheritances, though international applications will remain offline for the time being. Online tracking for applications is part of future improvements.
Justice Minister Heidi Alexander disclosed in Parliament that the HMCTS has bolstered its workforce and enhanced systems and processes, facilitating record levels of probate grants over the past six months. Since August 2023, the workable caseload has seen a significant reduction by over 50%, standing at 31,842 in June 2024. For cases older than 20 weeks, HMCTS has implemented a support mechanism via a new email address, facilitating direct assistance to expedite processing.
Overall, the Probate Service’s enhancements reflect a positive trajectory, yet there remains room for further optimisations. As the service continues to innovate and adapt, it is expected that these improvements will eventually alleviate the burdens faced by bereaved families.
