probate

[sbrown1450]

When a person dies whether they have a will or not that the family have to contact the Probate office?

[factor-fiction]

Do you mean ... do the family have to contact the Probate Office.
Yes, a close relative needs to apply for Letters of Administration
This site explains what needs to be done
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Governmentcitizens andrights/Death/Preparation/DG_10029716

[Barmaid]

To expand on what factor said. If they had a will then the appointed executor should apply for a Grant of Probate - the family - unless they are named as executor have no standing to do so. If they died without a Will, the next of kin (depending on who is left - there are strict rules about who is first, second in line etc) should apply for a Grant of Letters of Administration (through the Probate Registry). If the deceased left a Will but the named executors are either unable or unwilling to act then the residuary beneficiaries under the Will apply for a Grant of Letters of Administration with Will Annexed (again from the PR).