If there is no will, then it is not possible to apply for probate; instead, it is necessary to apply to the court for an administrator to be appointed and once this application is approved, instead of receiving a grant of probate, Letters of Administration are granted. A Letters of Administration certificate serves the same purpose as a grant of probate in that it enables the estate to be collected and then distributed to beneficiaries after the payment of outstanding debts and charges.
If there is a will but no executor then it will be necessary to make application to the court for
what is known as a grant of Letters of Administration With Will Attached.
