Probate Lawyer in Dubai
Before any asset can be distributed, the estate typically has to pass through the court's probate procedure — a formal, document-heavy process with its own filing sequence and evidentiary requirements.
The petition that opens a probate case has to be filed with specific supporting documentation — the original will, a death certificate, and identification of heirs and assets — and gaps in this documentation are a common source of delay.
Once filed, a probate case moves through defined court stages, and executors or heirs are generally expected to respond to court requests within set timeframes to keep the case moving.
We guide executors and heirs through each stage of the probate procedure, from preparing and filing the initial petition through to obtaining the court's grant of probate or succession order.
How We Handle Probate
- Document PreparationWe identify and compile the documentation the probate petition requires, including the original will, death certificate, and asset and heir information.
- Petition FilingWe prepare and file the probate petition with the appropriate court, ensuring the submission meets procedural requirements.
- Responding to Court RequestsWe manage responses to any court requests for additional information or documentation as the case proceeds.
- Hearing RepresentationWhere a hearing is required, we represent the executor or heirs and present the case to the court.
- Obtaining the GrantWe follow the case through to the court's issuance of the grant of probate or succession order.
- Handover for DistributionOnce the grant is obtained, we prepare the file for the distribution phase, confirming what authority the grant provides.
When to Bring in a Probate Lawyer
- You've been named executor and need to open a probate case but aren't sure what the filing requires.
- You're missing documentation, such as the original will, and need guidance on how to proceed.
- A probate petition has been filed and the court has requested additional information or documentation.
- A probate hearing has been scheduled and you need representation.
- You want to understand how long the probate process is likely to take for a specific estate.
- You're an heir wanting to understand the probate process affecting an estate you have an interest in.
Services We Provide
- Probate petition preparation and filing
- Document compilation and verification
- Court correspondence management
- Probate hearing representation
- Grant of probate and succession order procurement
- Executor guidance through the probate process
- Post-grant handover for distribution
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents are needed to open a probate case?
Typically the original will (where one exists), a death certificate, and documentation identifying the heirs and the estate's assets, though specific requirements can vary by case.
What happens if the original will can't be located?
This creates additional complications that need to be addressed with the court, and we can advise on the appropriate approach based on the specific circumstances.
How long does the probate process typically take?
Timing varies based on the estate's complexity and the court's caseload, and we can give a more specific estimate once we understand the details of your case.
Do I need to attend a probate hearing personally?
Requirements vary by case, and we advise clients on when personal attendance is necessary versus when representation can proceed on their behalf.
What authority does a grant of probate actually give?
It formally authorizes the executor or administrator to deal with the estate's assets, which is the legal basis for then proceeding to the distribution phase.