This week, the latest data from HM Courts & Tribunals Service on the probate registry has been published.
The statistics indicate improvements on average, but the long delays still show the lasting impact of inexperienced staff and reduced service standards.
Commentary on the new data from Kirsty Limacher, Chief Legal Officer at The Association of Lifetime Lawyers suggests that data only shows ‘one side of the story’. Despite improvements on the process the CLO still feels the levels of service are not adequate.
She commented: “The latest data from the Probate Registry shows some improvement on average. This only tells part of the story though. Many of our members are still facing long delays and ‘stops’ on applications that reveal how much HMCTS is missing experienced and knowledgeable staff.
“Whilst improvements have been made, they come after a period of declining standards and still do not reach the levels of service previously expected from the Probate Registry.
“This is making things very difficult for us in the legal profession and of course the ultimate burden is being borne by grieving families. Our members are specialists in working with vulnerable and older people at some of the toughest times – we see the impact of probate delays first hand. So of course we’re cross. A little better, is just not good enough.”
