VIC Late Brother’s Will - How Do I Get Copy?

[Monica Rose]

Hi. I have a question regarding my late brother’s will. I have reason to believe that I am the main beneficiary however it has been hidden from me by other family members.

Firstly, is this legal? Secondly, how could I go about attaining a copy for myself?

 

[Sophea]

Hi Monica,

The beneficiary of a Will is entitled to receive a copy of the Will in its entirety if they make a formal request to the Executor to do so. TheExecutor must acknowledge the request and send the beneficiary a copy of the Will. The beneficiary may be liable for any expenses related to producing and sending the copy.

Check out these other threads with more info:


https://www.lawanswers.com.au/threads/how-to-get-a-copy-of-family-wills.1614/#post-5873
https://www.lawanswers.com.au/threads/how-to-get-a-copy-of-family-wills.1614/#post-5874
https://www.lawanswers.com.au/threads/executor-of-will-breaking-the-law.1214/#post-4487

 

[Sarah J]

Hi Monica,

The will is usually left with a solicitor or firm. You can also make a formal (i.e. written and signed) request to the solicitor who possesses the will, for a copy. If probate is sought, then the will would have been lodged with the Supreme Court's Probate Registry. If this is the case, you can also contact the court and request a copy. You will need to pay a filing and photocopy fee in this case.