Can a beneficiary see a copy of the Will?

Answer

Initially, only the appointed executors listed in the Will have the right to access its contents before probate is granted. Others, including beneficiaries, aren't entitled to view the Will at this stage without the explicit consent of all named executors.

Legally, executors aren't obligated to disclose the Will or its terms to those who request it. However, beneficiaries have the right to ask for a copy of the Will. If an executor declines a beneficiary's request to see the Will, the beneficiary can opt to engage a solicitor to formally request access to it.

After probate is granted, the Will becomes a public document, accessible to anyone by applying to the Probate Registry and paying the relevant fee. However, it's crucial to note that only the most recent Will provided to the Probate Registry becomes public. Previous Wills remain private.

In cases where probate isn't necessary, the Will typically remains private. However, the executor may choose to show it to the beneficiaries. If probate isn't required, individuals not named in the Will usually won't have access to its contents.

Whether probate is necessary depends on the assets owned by the deceased. Small estates below a certain value or without property might not require probate for distribution.