When someone dies, you need to get the legal right to deal with their property, money and possessions, and to do so you need to apply for ‘probate’ (known as confirmation in Scotland).
Disclaimer
An article of this kind can never provide a complete guide to the law in these areas, which may be subject to change from time to time. The opinions and suggestions made within this article should not be interpreted as specific advice in relation to any particular individual or individuals. Neither STEP, the article author or their firm accept responsibility for any loss occasioned by someone acting or refraining to act on the basis of the opinions and suggestions contained in this article.
More
UK 
Canada
