Will beneficiary refusing contact

[Bowler789]

Hi everyone thanks for accepting me to the group. I'm the executor for my Mum's will, I have been granted Probate and prepared accounts. I am now ready to start the dispersal of the estate. The beneficiaries are myself and 4 grandchildren. One of the grandchildren who is rather estranged is refusing to have any contact with me or his cousins or anyone else about the matter. We can't get an address or contact number for him he is refusing to have contacted through FBook messenger. His stepmother has confirmed that she has contacted him via FB and has requested he contact me either directly or via solicitors. How do I progress from here as I feel he is just trying to stop others receiving their inheritance? TIA

[Scot22]

This is a sad time so must be a strain with this added.

My understanding is that if everything has been set up according to the will then people can receive their inheritance. Perhaps formally notifying him what you are doing and set a deadline for him to contact you. You are making reasonable endeavours to give him his share. Make sure it is clearly identified in a secure account.

I have very little knowledge of this but it seems reasonable action. It can't be left inactive.

[des8]

Condolences on your mother's passing.

Regarding the uncooperative beneficiary you have two options;
1) apply under CPR Part 64 for court directions (an administration order), or
2) pay the share into court.

There will be costs involved in either option, but 1) is the generally preferred route.
Why can you not distribute the other legacies?

[Bowler789]

Thanks for the information. I have been advised against distribution as if the uncooperative party decides to contest as fees would be taken from the estate *♂️

[des8]

That is possible, but costs wouldn't necessarily come from the estate.
If he has been deemed to act unreasonably he could receive an adverse costs order...... but best not to risk it!