How to Navigate the Federal High Court: A Legal Guide

Introduction

In the bustling city of Lagos, where real estate and property ownership are critical aspects of wealth, the importance of the Probate Registry cannot be overstated. Whether a loved one dies with or without a will, the Probate Registry in Lagos is the statutory gateway for securing legal authority to administer or inherit the estate. Understanding the process, documentation requirements, timelines, and legal obligations can help avoid costly delays, emotional stress, or even loss of inheritance rights. This article provides a complete guide to the Probate Registry in Lagos, offering practical legal insights for families, executors, lawyers, and beneficiaries navigating probate matters.

1. What is the Probate Registry in Lagos?

The Probate Registry is a department of the High Court of Lagos State empowered to handle applications related to the administration of estates of deceased persons. Its core functions include:

• Issuing Grant of Probate (when there is a valid will).

• Issuing Letters of Administration (when there is no will).

• Safeguarding original wills.

• Supervising estate administrators.

• Ensuring taxes (estate duties) are paid before inheritance is granted.

The Registry ensures that estate administration follows due legal process and that the interests of beneficiaries, creditors, and the State are protected.

2. Key Terminologies in Probate Matters

To understand the probate process, familiarize yourself with these essential legal terms:

• Testator – A person who has written a valid will before death.

• Administrator – A person appointed to manage the estate of someone who died intestate (without a will).

• Executor – A person named in the will to carry out the wishes of the deceased.

• Probate – The legal process of validating a will and granting authority to the executor.

• Letters of Administration – Legal documents appointing someone to manage an intestate estate.

• Next of Kin – Closest surviving relatives of the deceased.

3. When Do You Need to Visit the Probate Registry?

You are expected to visit the Probate Registry in any of the following circumstances:

• The deceased died with a will: To apply for a Grant of Probate.

• The deceased died without a will: To apply for Letters of Administration.

• To deposit a will before death (a rare but legal practice).

• To resolve disputes regarding the authenticity of a will.

• To obtain certified copies of wills or letters.

4. Where is the Probate Registry Located in Lagos?

There are two major Probate Registries in Lagos:

a) Ikeja Division (Mainland)

• Address: High Court of Lagos State, Oba Akinjobi Way, GRA Ikeja, Lagos.

b) Lagos Island Division

• Address: High Court of Lagos State, Igbosere Road, Lagos Island (sometimes moved to Tafawa Balewa Square due to renovations).

Both registries fall under the jurisdiction of the Lagos State Judiciary and have similar processes and requirements.

5. Categories of Applications at the Probate Registry

There are three major categories of applications that go through the Probate Registry in Lagos:

i. Grant of Probate

For estates where the deceased left a valid will.

ii. Letters of Administration with Will Annexed

When the will names no executor or the named executor refuses to act.

iii. Letters of Administration (Intestate)

When the deceased did not leave any will.

6. Step-by-Step Process for Grant of Probate in Lagos

When a testator dies with a valid will, here’s how the executor obtains the Grant of Probate:

Step 1: File the Application

• Visit the Probate Registry and complete the relevant probate forms.

• Submit the original will and death certificate.

• Provide passport photographs and identity documents of the executors.

Step 2: Verification and Interview

• Registry verifies the will and checks supporting documents.

• Executors attend an interview at the Probate Registry.

Step 3: Publication in Newspapers

• Registry publishes notice of the probate application in a national or local newspaper.

• Allows for objections from the public, especially disinherited family members.

Step 4: Payment of Estate Duties

• The estate’s value is assessed.

• Taxes and filing fees are paid (usually 5%-10% of the estate’s value).

Step 5: Issuance of Probate

• If no objections are raised and fees are paid, the Grant of Probate is issued.

• Executors now have full legal power to administer the estate.

7. Process for Letters of Administration in Lagos

When a person dies intestate (without a will), the next of kin or family member applies for Letters of Administration.

Step-by-Step Procedure:

1. Initiate the Application

• Visit the Probate Registry to collect forms.

• Fill forms for the next-of-kin, attaching:

  • Death certificate

  • Marriage certificate (if spouse is applying)

  • Birth certificates of children

  • Inventory of assets

  • Identification of administrators

  • Passport photographs

2. Sureties and Bond

• Two sureties are required to act as financial guarantors.

• A bond may be required depending on the estate’s value.

3. Publication of Notice

• Public notice is published in a newspaper.

• Objections are invited (typically for 21–28 days).

4. Assessment and Payment

• The estate is assessed.

• Estate duties and fees are paid.

5. Grant Issued

• After compliance, Letters of Administration are issued.

• Administrators are legally empowered to manage the estate.

8. Timeframe for Probate and Letters of Administration in Lagos

Grant of Probate:

• Average timeframe: 3 to 6 months, depending on complexity.

Letters of Administration:

• Average timeframe: 6 to 12 months, due to publication and bonding delays.

Delays may occur due to:

• Incomplete documentation.

• Family disputes or legal objections.

• Backlogs at the registry.

• Non-payment of duties.

9. Required Documents for Probate Applications

For Grant of Probate:

• Original copy of the will.

• Death certificate.

• Passport photos of executors.

• Valid IDs.

• Completed probate forms.

• Estate inventory list.

• Newspaper publication receipt.

• Payment receipts for duties and taxes.

For Letters of Administration:

• Death certificate.

• Valid ID of applicants.

• Birth/marriage certificates.

• Passport photographs.

• Inventory of estate.

• Sureties’ IDs and photographs.

• Surety bond.

• Completed forms and payment receipts.

10. Cost Implications

The cost of obtaining probate varies with the estate’s value.

Typical Fees Include:

• Estate duty: ~5–10% of estate value.

• Form fees and publication charges: ₦10,000–₦50,000.

• Legal fees (if a lawyer is hired): Negotiable (can range from ₦100,000–₦500,000+).

11. Legal Tips for Smooth Probate Process

1. Hire a Probate Lawyer: Especially for large or contested estates.

2. Compile All Documents Early: Missing documents delay the process.

3. Avoid Multiple Executors if unnecessary.

4. Communicate with Family: Reduces disputes and delays.

5. Follow Up Regularly at the Registry.

6. Make Your Own Will While Alive: To save your family future stress.

12. What Happens If Someone Challenges the Will?

If anyone contests the will (on grounds of fraud, forgery, or undue influence), the Probate Registry will:

• Suspend the application.

• Refer the case to the Probate Court.

• Litigation may ensue.

• The grant will not be issued until the matter is resolved.

13. Can You Access a Will Before Probate is Granted?

Yes. Upon request, a copy of a will deposited at the registry may be made available to interested parties. You can:

• Apply for a certified true copy.

• Inspect the will by paying inspection fees.

14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What if the Will is Lost or Missing?

You can apply for Letters of Administration with Will Annexed using a photocopy (if available), with supporting affidavits.

Q2: Can probate be granted without a lawyer?

Yes. But it is highly advisable to engage a probate lawyer for guidance.

Q3: Can multiple family members apply jointly?

Yes. The registry allows for joint administration, especially in intestate matters.

Q4: What if the estate includes land or property?

A copy of the probate or letters must be registered with the Land Registry to complete property transfer.

15. Consequences of Not Obtaining Probate or Letters of Administration

Failing to obtain the necessary legal grant can result in:

• Fraudulent claims on property.

• Bank accounts being frozen indefinitely.

• Inability to transfer or sell property.

• Family disputes and legal battles.

• Loss of estate value over time.

It is illegal to administer an estate without proper authority under Nigerian law.

16. Tips for Executors and Administrators

• Keep detailed records of all estate income and expenditure.

• Act in the best interest of all beneficiaries.

• Do not mix estate money with personal funds.

• Ensure full compliance with probate conditions.

• Distribute assets only after settling debts.

17. How to Track Probate Progress

There is currently no online tracking portal, so follow up at the registry in person or through your lawyer.

Pro tip: Build a relationship with registry staff or use a lawyer familiar with the court system.

18. Why You Should Use a Probate Lawyer in Lagos

At Chaman Law Firm, we help families and executors navigate probate seamlessly. Our expert legal team:

• Prepares your documents professionally.

• Manages the filing and follow-up process.

• Handles objections or disputes efficiently.

• Offers compassionate legal support throughout.

Conclusion

Dealing with the loss of a loved one is emotionally draining; adding the burden of managing their estate without guidance can make matters worse. The Probate Registry in Lagos plays a critical role in ensuring that assets are legally transferred, debts are cleared, and inheritance disputes are avoided. Whether you are an executor, administrator, or beneficiary, understanding the process, requirements, and legal implications is key to protecting the deceased’s legacy and securing family harmony.

For professional probate services or further guidance, contact Chaman Law Firm – your trusted legal partner for estate administration in Lagos and beyond.

Call to Action

📞 Contact Us Today for Legal Assistance on Probate Matters:
Chaman Law Firm
📍115, Obafemi Awolowo Way, Allen Junction, Beside Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos
📞 08065553671 | 📧 chamanlawfirm@gmail.com
🌐 www.chamanlawfirm.com

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