Is this normal / common?

[WelchRegLost]

From the 1968 probate index

EVANS Mary Ann of Pengwern Llangynog Montgomeryshire died 31 December 1943 administration Bangor 12 March. £NIL.

Is it common for probate to take nearly 25 years with £NIL effects?

 

[Moff]

From the 1968 probate index

EVANS Mary Ann of Pengwern Llangynog Montgomeryshire died 31 December 1943 administration Bangor 12 March. £NIL.

Is it common for probate to take nearly 25 years with £NIL effects?

This got me thinking about one of my relatives who died in 1927. He had emigrated and became an American citizen, but an Administration (limited) was granted at London in 1950. He did leave just under £2,000 though.

 

[AnnB]

I think if there was a dispute over the will this could drag on for years. Maybe once any outstanding debts, funeral expenses, whatever, had been settled then there was literally no money left!

 

[Moff]

There were unusual circumstances with my relative. He was captain of a ship and he disappeared at sea. His widow was convinced that his crew had murdered him and I believe she took his employer to court.

 

[WelchRegLost]

Having argued with several AI tools for a number of hours, the most likely explanation is that Mary did not have a will at the time of her death and that one of her children continued to live in the property without a formal transfer of deed. Then in 1968 either the child sold the property or died and legal ownership had to be proven. The only way to be sure is to use the old fashioned method of sending a paper form with a postal order (my bank account does not provide cheques!).