The LCO commissioned this paper to provide background research for its Simplified Procedures for the Administration of Small Estates project. The views expressed in this paper do not necessarily reflect the views of the LCO.

Table of Contents

I. Introduction
II. Part One: The Purpose of Probate
III. Part Two: Key Principles
IV. Part Three: Examining Proportional Procedures
V. Part Four: Contrasting the Probate System with Continuing Powers of Attorney for Property
VI. Part Five: Suggestions for Change
VII. Conclusion
VIII. Endnotes