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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about intestate estate recovery
When someone dies without a will, their estate is distributed according to intestacy laws. In the UK, the spouse or civil partner receives the first £322,000, personal possessions, and half of the remaining estate if there are children. If there are no children, they inherit everything. Children inherit equal shares of the remaining estate, and if there's no spouse, they inherit everything.
Global City Trust Bank can assist by freezing accounts to prevent unauthorized transactions, providing information about account balances and types, and guiding next of kin through necessary steps. However, we cannot determine heirs, distribute assets, or provide legal advice - these require court appointment and legal counsel.
You'll typically need a death certificate, proof of your relationship to the deceased, and Letters of Administration from the court. The administrator (appointed by the court) will need to gather all documentation including account information and calculate the estate's total value.
If no living relatives can be found, the estate passes to the Crown (Bona Vacantia). This includes properties, assets, and bank accounts. However, thorough searches are usually conducted to locate any possible heirs before this occurs.
Yes, if you feel unfairly left out or inadequately provided for, you may challenge under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. This requires expert legal guidance and must be done within specific time limits.
The process typically takes 6-12 months but can be longer for complex estates. It involves applying for Letters of Administration, identifying all assets and liabilities, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining estate according to intestacy rules.