... hoping someone on here can advise :)

If a grandfather were to die and leave some money to his grandson that he hadn't seen for years - would the solicitor be responsible for locating that grandson to complete the instructions on the will? How hard would they try to contact him? If the grandson found out but the only way to get the details would be through the father he has nothing to do with - would there be a way round doing it? Could he find the solicitor and go direct - and how?

Thanks :)

I think that it is the executor of the will who has to make sure that the instructions of the will are carried out.  Of course, the executor of the will in question could be the solicitor involved!  I think that it would be in order for the grandson to contact the solicitor as it is in everyone's interest for the Grandfather's Estate to be wound up ASAP.

I've often seen notices in local papers from solicitors seeking the whereabouts of relatives who've died, presumably because they've been left something in a will.

I can't see that there'd be a problem with the grandson contacting the solicitor direct. Perhaps he could find out the solicitors details via another family member if he doesn't want contact with his father.

I think I'm right in saying that all the executor (probably the solicitor) has to do is put a notice in the press enquiring after the whereabouts of someone, and leave it up to them to spot it. If the grandson knew who the solicitor was he could certainly make himself known to them; but if he didn't know what firm his grandfather had been dealing with the only way round having to contact his father directly would be to instruct his own solicitor to make enquiries on his behalf.

Or he could try local solicitors to see if they are dealing with the will?

I can't see a problem with that - but his grandfather may not have been dealing with local solicitors. For example my mother lives on the south coast and her solicitor's in London. But he could certainly try contacting all the local firms and asking.

There is no harm in trying the solicitors.  They will always point you in the right direction.  The executor may have their own interest in the contents of the will, so I'm not sure how hard they have to try to find anyone else who has a stake.

If he doesn't want to deal with his father, then his solicitor will deal with it.  If he knows he has a stake in the will, then his solicitor should be able to ensure he gets his bit.  something to do with probate applications... I think...

This may help  http://www.lawontheweb.co.uk/willsafterdeath.htm

If the will has been proved you should be able to get a copy and find out who are the executors.

Daisy

Thats brill - thanks Daisy :)