Is Probate Research a Rewarding Career Option?

Beneficiaries come from all walks of life, making probate research a unique area of law that touches a wide range of demographics. Inheritance law can be complex, presenting challenges in navigating the intricacies involved in passing on a person’s estate.

Probate Researchers combine knowledge of probate (the process completed when a deceased person leaves assets to be distributed, such as bank accounts, real estate, and financial investments) and research. This work is predominantly carried out through genealogy but also involves significant investigation, sleuthing, and occasional potluck.

• Paralegal Similarities

  Probate Researchers are technically paralegals, due to the legal nature of their job. Although no specific qualifications or experience is required to work in this field, success in this profession hinges on an individual's tenacity, curiosity, professionalism and passion.

  While degrees in areas such as law, history, or genealogy can be advantageous, hands-on training is a vital asset to have.

• Team Effort

  Solving a probate case requires a collaborative effort. Once the probate researcher receives the initial correspondence, a series of actions are initiated, including providing a quote, conducting thorough family research, reaching out to potential heirs, and utilising an extensive network of genealogists, private investigators, and forensic probate experts, both within the UK and internationally. Some cases are closed quickly, while others can take years.

• Authentication Challenges

  One of the major challenges encountered by probate researchers is convincing members of the public that you are a reputable company and that it is indeed possible to receive something without any upfront cost.

  Unlike typical inheritance scams, numerous ways exist to verify the legitimacy of an individual offering an inheritance, potentially from an unfamiliar deceased person. These verification methods may include:

  •  Confirming the physical existence of the office

  •  Researching key staff members online

  •  Cross-referencing company details with Companies House and VAT numbers

  •  Seeking independent confirmation from a trusted lawyer

  A key aspect in educating the public on probate research was the BBC TV show ‘Heir Hunters’, which reached over 1.2 million viewers. The show featured leading companies in the industry and helped to raise awareness about the work that probate researchers do. It sparked interest in the profession, leading to numerous media interviews and stories that shed light on both the financial and human aspects of probate research work.

• Rewarding Work

  Speaking to bereaved family members is never an easy aspect of the role. However, it is astounding to see just how many people are more than happy to open up about their family history, the dynamics within it, and the collective or personal story that we all have woven into our DNA.

  Curiosity is a key attribute needed for probate research. It motivates individuals to go the extra mile, whether it's making additional calls, conducting thorough research, or asking crucial questions that could crack open a case. When combined with traits like tenacity, empathy, lateral thinking, and strong communication skills, it creates a promising candidate for a career in probate research.

• Probate Jobs on TotallyLegal

  Pursuing paralegal training through NALP can further enhance these qualities and provide the necessary technical skills to kickstart your career.

  If you’re interested in becoming a probate researcher or just looking for a new career path, visit TotallyLegal to browse the latest probate researcher jobs. Alternatively, you can upload your CV to get headhunted for the latest advertised and non-advertised roles.

• About the Author

  Ryan Gregory is a member of NALP, the National Association of Licensed Paralegals. NALP is a non-profit membership body and the only paralegal body that is recognised as an awarding organisation by Ofqual (the regulator of qualifications in England). For more information see http://www.nationalparalegals.co.uk