The internet has transformed the way we access information, whether we’re seeking answers to questions, shopping online, or reconnecting with old friends. With so much information readily available, it may seem easy tracing missing heirs online. While online resources can be valuable, probate research involves more than reviewing social media profiles or a few searches. When it comes to identifying and locating heirs, the information online reveals only a small part of the full story.
What you can find on the internet
The internet can be a great starting point when identifying initial family connections. There are various records available on the internet that can assist you in starting your probate research.
Public records
UK public records are available online through government websites including birth, marriage and death certificates. These can help build a family tree and identify potential missing relatives.
Probate records and wills
The UK government offers a probate search service that allows users to access probate records and wills online. If a will exists, it can provide information about the deceased’s estate. This may include the executor of the will, distribution of assets and identify any beneficiaries entitled to inherit from the estate.
Social media channels
Social media can be a valuable tool for identifying individuals, establishing family connections, and uncovering life events such as marriages or emigration. However, not all individuals have a digital footprint, and some relatives may be difficult to identify due to name changes or privacy settings.
What the internet can’t tell you
While the internet can provide certain information, probate applications require supporting documents and evidence. In cases of intestacy (without a will), the probate process can be complex and often requires more than information found online.
Determine who is legally entitled
If there is no will in place for the deceased, the estate will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. This means identifying everyone on the family tree who may be entitled to inherit from the estate. The process can become complex when family members predecease the deceased, which means researching further into the family tree to avoid overlooking family members that may have an entitlement.
Information Accuracy
Not all online information is reliable. Family tress published or obtained online may include errors due to name changes, incomplete documents or emigration. Using professional services or official government pages provides trustworthy evidence.
Private Records
Privacy legislation often protects records such as bank information, adoption files, and certain historical documents. This means they are not accessible online and must be obtained through the appropriate authorisation process.
The risks of relying only the internet
Online resources can provide useful leads when tracing heirs. However, relying solely on the online information can create risks during estate administration. Executors and administrators have a legal duty to identify heirs and distribute assets correctly. If heirs are incorrectly identified or overlooked, this could result in potential disputes or claims against the estate after distribution.
Why you should contact a probate researcher
At Blanchards, our experienced team combines modern technology with traditional genealogical research methods to identify rightful heirs. Our specialist genealogists use record databases and supporting documentation to build accurate family trees. If you are dealing with a case of intestacy or need help finding missing heirs, we can assist in finding the rightful heirs and ensure the estate is distributed correctly. Get in touch today!
