Appearance form (Probate)

What this form is for

• • Use this form when you need to formally enter a probate case
• • Use this form if you're an executor named in a will
• • Use this form if you're applying to administer an estate without a will
• • Use this form if you have a potential claim to the estate
• • Don't use this form for initial probate application - that requires a different form

Use this form or another form?

Deadline or filing window

You must file this form within the time specified in the probate court notice, typically within a set period after being notified of the proceedings. Missing this deadline may result in you being excluded from the probate process.

Before you submit

• • Verify all personal details are correct
• • Confirm your relationship to the deceased is accurately stated
• • Check that your role in the proceedings is clearly defined
• • Ensure the form is properly signed and dated
• • Confirm the correct court office address
• • Check the current filing fee amount
• • Verify submission method (online, post, in-person)

How to file this form

1. 1Obtain the current version of the Appearance form (Probate) from the Courts Service website
2. 2Complete all sections with accurate information
3. 3Sign and date the form
4. 4Submit to the appropriate probate court office
5. 5Keep a copy for your records
6. 6Pay any required filing fee

Known limitations

• • This form only formalizes your appearance in probate proceedings
• • It doesn't grant you authority to act as executor or administrator
• • Additional forms may be required depending on your role
• • This form doesn't resolve disputes about the estate
• • Legal advice may be necessary for complex cases