How probate works in Ireland

Probate in Ireland has a well-defined process, most of it documented publicly by the Courts Service and Revenue. The barrier for personal applicants is not the rules themselves but knowing where to look and what order to do things in. These guides address that in order.

Start with the page that matches your current question. Every guide ends with a link to the next logical step, so you can follow them in order or skip to what applies to you.

Deciding whether probate applies to you

Do you actually need probate? The small estates rule, joint assets, and pension nominations that can mean no Grant is required. Start here if you are unsure.

Grant of Probate vs Grant of Administration The two main Grants, who applies for each, and what the difference means for your paperwork.

Dying without a will in Ireland Intestacy rules under the Succession Act 1965, who inherits when there is no will, and when a solicitor becomes essential.

Joint assets and what bypasses probate Assets held in joint names, survivorship, and the practical test for whether a Grant is needed.

Preparing and filing the application

The SA2 form explained What Revenue needs before the Probate Office accepts your papers. Sections of the form, access, common errors, Notice of Acknowledgement.

Personal application or solicitor? Honest comparison with a clear decision tree, cost ranges, and the complexity triggers that move an estate out of DIY territory.

How long does probate take in Ireland? Current Dublin Probate Office processing times, district registry variations, and the full timeline from date of death to final distribution.

Where to lodge

The Dublin Probate Office Address, appointment process, current wait times, and what to expect on the day for Dublin, Meath, Kildare, and Wicklow estates.

District Probate Registries The 14 District Registries outside Dublin, which counties they serve, and why they often issue Grants faster than Dublin.

Complications

Contesting a will Section 117 claims, undue influence, and the grounds on which a will can be challenged. Where a solicitor becomes essential.

When the executor refuses or cannot act Renunciation, power reserved, and what happens when the person named in the will is unable or unwilling to take on the role.

After the Grant

The Executor's Year What the 12-month rule actually means under Section 62 of the Succession Act 1965. Widely misunderstood; explained plainly.

When you actually need a solicitor The honest list of complexity triggers where a personal application is the wrong choice and professional advice pays for itself.

Not sure where to start

If you are not sure which of these guides applies to your situation, the Readiness Check answers that in 10 minutes. Answer 15 questions and get a personalised six-to-ten-page report emailed to you that tells you which route fits, what your likely CAT liability is, and what to do this week.