Heir Hunters - Treethorpe

[groom]

So I wonder how they know for certain that there is no will?

[Girl Guide]

Checked the find a will website maybe?

[Jebber]

So I wonder how they know for certain that there is no will?

It needn't necessarily mean there is no will. I'm not saying that is the case in this instance, but can give an example where this may happen.

Mary Smith makes a will leaving everything to John Brown,  if Mary has not stipulated what was to happen to her estate if John predeceases her, which he does, then the legacy fails and you are back in the same position as if there had been no will.

I'm no expert but I believe this is correct. That's why it's important to cover such an eventuality when making a will.

[AntonyMMM]

I did some research work for a Canadian legal firm a couple of years ago, and wrote to two beneficiaries in the UK that I identified on their behalf.

Last time I spoke with the lawyer, not long ago, they still have had no response from either despite a follow up letter .....

I know  the estate value is around £375k, so someone's missing out there !

[Tickettyboo]

I did some research work for a Canadian legal firm a couple of years ago, and wrote to two beneficiaries in the UK that I identified on their behalf.

Last time I spoke with the lawyer, not long ago, they still have had no response from either despite a follow up letter .....

I know  the estate value is around £375k, so someone's missing out there !

In fairness Antony, with the increase of scams across the globe, I think I'd be wary. 
Though would probably know if I had possible Canadian relatives on my tree and be computer savvy enough to do at least an initial web check to see if the company was legitimate. Not everyone is in the same position.
Shame though, if they could have benefitted.

Boo

[groom]

Checked the find a will website maybe?

That's only any good if probate has been applied for. How would anyone know if I'd made a will apart from the fact that when I did it my executors got a letter? If I'd just written one, got it witnesses properly but then tucked it away, unless people searched for it, they wouldn't know.

[eileenwilson]

I do research for a firm in the UK as well in the attempt to find legal heirs for estates that appear both on the Bona Vacantia list as well as those that come directly from solicitors.  These firms like to develop relationships with the solicitors so that it stays off the list.  That said, I do know that you can negotiate the fees that these firms charge, especially if you're contacted by more than one of them.