06 June 2019
The rollout of new software for handling probate has been hit with IT glitches. Computer systems across the country are facing many issues, according to the HM Courts & Tribunal Services (HMCTS). As a result, many bereaved families are forced to wait for longer periods of time for their applications to go through.
Applications are normally processed between a week and ten days, but people are now being told that it could take up to ten weeks to process their applications.
What’s the new system?
Registries are no longer using the Probate Man service. Instead, a ‘new case management system’ was installed at the end of March.
HMCTS believe this will bring improvements to the service in the long term by helping to process applications more efficiently, however, this move necessitated a period of training which caused an initial delay – that still seems to be ongoing with no end in sight.
What’s caused the delays?
HMCTS acknowledged there has also been an increase in applications following uncertainty around the implementation of the new probate fee structure, which is currently on the backburner whilst Parliamentary time is used elsewhere – primarily Brexit negotiations.
Unfortunately, ‘unexpected technical issues’ that affected HMCTS probate infrastructure knocked the system offline for 4 days, which only added to the delays. There have also been problems with printing reported at local registries.
How HMTC is proposing to fix the delays
To fix the delays, HMCTs is reviewing how to improve the IT system to ensure data is used in an effective manner.
They have also proposed to add additional resources to work on the backlog of applications and ensured they are trying to process as much work as comes in each day.
As errors are reported in issued grants, HMTC is ensuring they are handled and reported diligently to minimise further strain on the Department.
Online Probate System
As a more long-term solution, HMCTS is looking at running a recruitment exercise to bring more firms on to test the online probate system.
They anticipate that this increase in digital applications will ease the strain on registries over the next 12 months.
How can Haines Watts help?
We understand it can be incredibly difficult and stressful to have to deal with probate on top of the emotional circumstances of a loved one passing away. We can be by your side to take care of the process, from collecting assets to organising debt payments, and being able to liaise directly with HMRC to save your time. Contact us today.
