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Probate & Estate AdministrationUnited Kingdom
Free Form PA15 Executor Renunciation Template
Form PA15 is the United Kingdom probate form for an executor who wishes to formally and permanently relinquish the right to act as executor of a deceased's estate. Filed at the Probate Registry of HM Courts and Tribunals Service under Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987 r.37. The current Crown copyright version is 06.25 (June 2025; remains current for 2026/27). Renunciation is permanent and irreversible — once filed, the renouncing executor cannot later apply for the grant except with the leave of a registrar in exceptional circumstances (Re Stevens [1898] 1 Ch 162). The renouncing executor must NOT have "intermeddled" in the estate (In re Cole [1964] Ch 175). Approximately 8% of probate applications include a PA15 or PA16 element. Our free United Kingdom template builds a structured PA15 — deceased and will identification, renouncing executor identity and co-executor position, formal r.37 renunciation declaration with intermeddling certification, witness execution, and four Expert clauses on the intermeddling test pre-renunciation analysis, the Form PA16 power reserved alternative under NCP Rules r.27, the sole-executor renunciation route to Letters of Administration with the will annexed via Form PA1A, and multi-executor coordination under Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114.
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Form PA15 — Executor Renunciation
Probate Registry Of HM Courts And Tribunals Service · Estate Of Geraldine Patricia Aldworth · 18 June 2026
TO: The Probate Registry of HM Courts and Tribunals Service
BY: James Edward Marchant — being a solicitor named as professional executor in the deceased's will (drafting firm or appointed practice).
RE: Renunciation of the right to act as executor in the estate of Geraldine Patricia Aldworth, deceased.
Filed under Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987 r.37. The deceased left a will dated as below together with one or more codicils — the renouncing executor is renouncing the right to act in respect of both the will and the codicils. The position of the other executors is as follows: the deceased named TWO OR MORE other executors in the will; one or more of the continuing executors will prove the will (with PA15 renunciation by this executor).
BY: James Edward Marchant — being a solicitor named as professional executor in the deceased's will (drafting firm or appointed practice).
RE: Renunciation of the right to act as executor in the estate of Geraldine Patricia Aldworth, deceased.
Filed under Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987 r.37. The deceased left a will dated as below together with one or more codicils — the renouncing executor is renouncing the right to act in respect of both the will and the codicils. The position of the other executors is as follows: the deceased named TWO OR MORE other executors in the will; one or more of the continuing executors will prove the will (with PA15 renunciation by this executor).
1. DECEASED IDENTIFICATION
| FULL NAME | Geraldine Patricia Aldworth |
| DATE OF DEATH | 15 April 2026 |
| LAST ADDRESS | 8 Heathcote Gardens, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 7LP |
| WILL DATE | 4 September 2018 |
2. RENOUNCING EXECUTOR
| FULL NAME | James Edward Marchant |
| ADDRESS | Marchant andamp; Wexford LLP, Bank Chambers, The Parade, Leamington Spa CV32 4BA |
| CAPACITY | a solicitor named as professional executor in the deceased's will |
| CO-EXECUTOR POSITION | the deceased named TWO OR MORE other executors in the will; one or more of the continuing executors will prove the will (with PA15 renunciation by this executor) |
| CONTINUING EXECUTOR(S) NAMED | Caroline Anne Aldworth-Bryce (daughter of the deceased) — proving the will Robert Charles Aldworth (son of the deceased) — proving the will Margaret Helen Pemberton (sister of the deceased) — power reserved (PA16 lodged separately) |
3. RENUNCIATION DECLARATION — NCP RULES 1987 r.37.
I, James Edward Marchant of Marchant andamp; Wexford LLP, Bank Chambers, The Parade, Leamington Spa CV32 4BA, named as executor in the will dated 4 September 2018 of Geraldine Patricia Aldworth, deceased, do hereby RENOUNCE all my right and title to a Grant of Probate of the said will (and, where applicable, the codicils thereto) under Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987 r.37.
I acknowledge that this renunciation is permanent and that I cannot later apply for the grant except with the leave of a registrar in exceptional circumstances under NCP Rules r.37(3) — as established by the Court of Appeal in Re Stevens [1898] 1 Ch 162.
Intermeddling certification: NO INTERMEDDLING — the renouncing executor has taken no acts inconsistent with renunciation; no contact with banks or financial institutions in executor capacity; no payment of estate debts from estate funds; no collection of estate assets; no distribution to beneficiaries; no representation to third parties as executor.
Funeral arranged by renouncing executor: NO.
Property secured by renouncing executor: NO.
Reasons for renunciation:
I, James Edward Marchant, was appointed as professional executor in clause 11 of the deceased's will of 4 September 2018 (and re-confirmed in the codicil of 14 February 2023) as a safety-valve provision in the event that family executors were unable or unwilling to act. The two family executors named in the will — Mrs Caroline Anne Aldworth-Bryce (the deceased's daughter) and Mr Robert Charles Aldworth (the deceased's son) — are both willing, able and competent to act jointly. Mrs Margaret Helen Pemberton (the deceased's sister, also named as executor) has elected to have power reserved (PA16 lodged separately). In these circumstances, the family executors' wish (recorded in the joint letter of 6 May 2026 from Mrs Aldworth-Bryce and Mr Aldworth) is that the professional executorship is not required and would only impose unnecessary professional fees on the estate. I have given careful consideration to my position and, after taking independent counsel's advice (Mr Edward Pemberton-Hawes KC, advice dated 28 May 2026), I am content that PA15 permanent renunciation is the appropriate route. I have taken no acts that would constitute intermeddling — Marchant andamp; Wexford LLP's involvement has been limited to drafting the original will in 2018 and the codicil in 2023, both well before the deceased's death.
I, James Edward Marchant of Marchant andamp; Wexford LLP, Bank Chambers, The Parade, Leamington Spa CV32 4BA, named as executor in the will dated 4 September 2018 of Geraldine Patricia Aldworth, deceased, do hereby RENOUNCE all my right and title to a Grant of Probate of the said will (and, where applicable, the codicils thereto) under Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987 r.37.
I acknowledge that this renunciation is permanent and that I cannot later apply for the grant except with the leave of a registrar in exceptional circumstances under NCP Rules r.37(3) — as established by the Court of Appeal in Re Stevens [1898] 1 Ch 162.
Intermeddling certification: NO INTERMEDDLING — the renouncing executor has taken no acts inconsistent with renunciation; no contact with banks or financial institutions in executor capacity; no payment of estate debts from estate funds; no collection of estate assets; no distribution to beneficiaries; no representation to third parties as executor.
Funeral arranged by renouncing executor: NO.
Property secured by renouncing executor: NO.
Reasons for renunciation:
I, James Edward Marchant, was appointed as professional executor in clause 11 of the deceased's will of 4 September 2018 (and re-confirmed in the codicil of 14 February 2023) as a safety-valve provision in the event that family executors were unable or unwilling to act. The two family executors named in the will — Mrs Caroline Anne Aldworth-Bryce (the deceased's daughter) and Mr Robert Charles Aldworth (the deceased's son) — are both willing, able and competent to act jointly. Mrs Margaret Helen Pemberton (the deceased's sister, also named as executor) has elected to have power reserved (PA16 lodged separately). In these circumstances, the family executors' wish (recorded in the joint letter of 6 May 2026 from Mrs Aldworth-Bryce and Mr Aldworth) is that the professional executorship is not required and would only impose unnecessary professional fees on the estate. I have given careful consideration to my position and, after taking independent counsel's advice (Mr Edward Pemberton-Hawes KC, advice dated 28 May 2026), I am content that PA15 permanent renunciation is the appropriate route. I have taken no acts that would constitute intermeddling — Marchant andamp; Wexford LLP's involvement has been limited to drafting the original will in 2018 and the codicil in 2023, both well before the deceased's death.
4. INTERMEDDLING TEST — PRE-RENUNCIATION STATUS ANALYSIS. The renunciation of an executor's right to act under NCP Rules 1987 r.37 is only available where the renouncing executor has not "intermeddled" in the estate. Intermeddling is conduct inconsistent with renunciation — acts that signal acceptance of the executor role and, by implication, of the duties owed to the estate and the beneficiaries. The classic authority is Long and Feaver v Symes (1832) 3 Hag Ecc 771; the Court of Appeal in Re Stevens [1898] 1 Ch 162 established the finality principle (once probate is taken, renunciation is closed); the modern leading authority is In re Cole [1964] Ch 175, which defines the test for modern practice. The Court of Appeal in Re Biggs [1966] P 118 extended the analysis to mistaken intermeddling — in very limited circumstances the court may excuse intermeddling where the renouncing executor genuinely believed they had no executor capacity at the relevant time.
Acts that DO constitute intermeddling (per In re Cole [1964] Ch 175):
Acts that do NOT constitute intermeddling (per In re Cole and Re Biggs):
Bank contact analysis: NO bank contact made — the renouncing executor has not contacted any of the deceased's banks or financial institutions in any capacity (no intermeddling).
Debt payment analysis: NO debt payments made — the renouncing executor has not paid any of the deceased's debts (no intermeddling).
Asset collection analysis: NO asset collection — the renouncing executor has not collected in any of the deceased's assets (no intermeddling).
Beneficiary communication: INFORMAL FAMILY UPDATE — typically non-intermeddling.
Intermeddling analysis narrative:
Since the death of Mrs Aldworth on 15 April 2026, the renouncing executor (James Edward Marchant) has taken no acts on behalf of the estate. The only contact with the deceased's family has been: (a) a courtesy condolence call to Mrs Aldworth-Bryce on 16 April 2026 (no estate business discussed); (b) provision of the original will and codicil to Mrs Aldworth-Bryce and Mr Aldworth on 22 April 2026 (Marchant andamp; Wexford LLP had retained the original at the deceased's request); (c) provision of a brief overview of the will's provisions at the family meeting of 25 April 2026 (informational only, no executor authority asserted). None of these acts constitute intermeddling under In re Cole [1964] Ch 175. Specifically: (i) no contact with any of the deceased's banks, building societies, share registrars, insurers or pension administrators in capacity as executor; (ii) no payment of estate debts (funeral arrangements were handled by Mrs Aldworth-Bryce personally); (iii) no collection of estate assets; (iv) no distribution to beneficiaries; (v) no representation to third parties as executor. The leading counsel's opinion (Mr Edward Pemberton-Hawes KC, 28 May 2026) confirms this assessment. The Probate Registry can accept the PA15 renunciation without any intermeddling concern.
Acts that DO constitute intermeddling (per In re Cole [1964] Ch 175):
- Contacting banks or financial institutions in capacity as executor
- Paying estate debts from estate funds
- Collecting in estate assets (cash, jewellery, share certificates, deeds)
- Distributing assets to beneficiaries
- Representing oneself to third parties as executor
- Receiving income or rents in capacity as executor
- Entering into contracts on behalf of the estate
Acts that do NOT constitute intermeddling (per In re Cole and Re Biggs):
- Arranging the funeral
- Securing estate property for safety (locking the home, holding jewellery)
- Gathering papers for safekeeping (the will, account statements)
- Obtaining the death certificate
- Notifying the will to the family
- Paying urgent bills from one's own funds with intention to be reimbursed
- Contacting financial institutions in capacity as next-of-kin (not executor)
Bank contact analysis: NO bank contact made — the renouncing executor has not contacted any of the deceased's banks or financial institutions in any capacity (no intermeddling).
Debt payment analysis: NO debt payments made — the renouncing executor has not paid any of the deceased's debts (no intermeddling).
Asset collection analysis: NO asset collection — the renouncing executor has not collected in any of the deceased's assets (no intermeddling).
Beneficiary communication: INFORMAL FAMILY UPDATE — typically non-intermeddling.
Intermeddling analysis narrative:
Since the death of Mrs Aldworth on 15 April 2026, the renouncing executor (James Edward Marchant) has taken no acts on behalf of the estate. The only contact with the deceased's family has been: (a) a courtesy condolence call to Mrs Aldworth-Bryce on 16 April 2026 (no estate business discussed); (b) provision of the original will and codicil to Mrs Aldworth-Bryce and Mr Aldworth on 22 April 2026 (Marchant andamp; Wexford LLP had retained the original at the deceased's request); (c) provision of a brief overview of the will's provisions at the family meeting of 25 April 2026 (informational only, no executor authority asserted). None of these acts constitute intermeddling under In re Cole [1964] Ch 175. Specifically: (i) no contact with any of the deceased's banks, building societies, share registrars, insurers or pension administrators in capacity as executor; (ii) no payment of estate debts (funeral arrangements were handled by Mrs Aldworth-Bryce personally); (iii) no collection of estate assets; (iv) no distribution to beneficiaries; (v) no representation to third parties as executor. The leading counsel's opinion (Mr Edward Pemberton-Hawes KC, 28 May 2026) confirms this assessment. The Probate Registry can accept the PA15 renunciation without any intermeddling concern.
5. POWER RESERVED ALTERNATIVE — NCP RULES 1987 r.27 (FORM PA16). Where the renouncing executor's circumstances may change during the administration — for example, where the proving executor(s) may die, become incapacitated or otherwise cease to act — Form PA16 power reserved is the alternative to permanent PA15 renunciation. Under NCP Rules 1987 r.27, the executor "postpones" the right to apply for the grant while another named executor proves the will; the power reserved executor can later apply for a Grant of Double Probate if the proving executor's tenure ends prematurely. Unlike PA15, PA16 is fully reversible — the power-reserved executor retains a contingent right.
Power reserved is the preferred route in three scenarios: (i) where the proving executor is elderly or in poor health; (ii) where the proving executor lives far away or is geographically vulnerable; (iii) where the estate is substantial and likely to require multiple years of administration (and the contingency of the proving executor's death materially affects the outcome).
Renouncing executor prefers PA16 alternative: CONSIDERED BUT REJECTED — the renouncing executor has weighed PA16 against PA15 and chosen permanent renunciation.
Double probate contingency assessment: UNLIKELY — the renouncing executor expects the proving executor(s) to complete the administration; permanent renunciation under PA15 is the appropriate route.
Continuing executor(s) position on PA16 alternative:
The two proving executors (Mrs Caroline Anne Aldworth-Bryce, aged 54, and Mr Robert Charles Aldworth, aged 51) are both in good health and reasonably expected to complete the administration. The third named executor (Mrs Margaret Helen Pemberton, aged 78, the deceased's sister) has herself elected PA16 power reserved given her age and health position. The family's preference is clear: the professional executor should step out permanently rather than retain a contingent right that would create administrative complexity if invoked. The family executors have confirmed in writing (joint letter 6 May 2026) that they prefer PA15 permanent renunciation over PA16 power reserved.
PA16 power reserved narrative:
PA16 power reserved was considered as an alternative to PA15 permanent renunciation. Three factors weighed against PA16: (a) the proving executors are middle-aged, in good health, and reasonably expected to complete the administration; (b) the estate is moderately complex (gross value approximately GBP 1.2m, IHT400 required, BPR claim on Aldworth Engineering Limited shares) but the administration timeline is foreseeable (approximately 18-24 months); (c) the family's express preference is for a clean break — the professional executor permanently steps out rather than retaining a contingent right that could be invoked if either family executor died or ceased to act during the administration. The renunciation under PA15 closes the matter cleanly; if the worst happened and both family executors died, the next-of-kin in priority would apply for Letters of Administration de bonis non administratis under Senior Courts Act 1981 s.116 — a separate route that does not require my participation.
Power reserved is the preferred route in three scenarios: (i) where the proving executor is elderly or in poor health; (ii) where the proving executor lives far away or is geographically vulnerable; (iii) where the estate is substantial and likely to require multiple years of administration (and the contingency of the proving executor's death materially affects the outcome).
Renouncing executor prefers PA16 alternative: CONSIDERED BUT REJECTED — the renouncing executor has weighed PA16 against PA15 and chosen permanent renunciation.
Double probate contingency assessment: UNLIKELY — the renouncing executor expects the proving executor(s) to complete the administration; permanent renunciation under PA15 is the appropriate route.
Continuing executor(s) position on PA16 alternative:
The two proving executors (Mrs Caroline Anne Aldworth-Bryce, aged 54, and Mr Robert Charles Aldworth, aged 51) are both in good health and reasonably expected to complete the administration. The third named executor (Mrs Margaret Helen Pemberton, aged 78, the deceased's sister) has herself elected PA16 power reserved given her age and health position. The family's preference is clear: the professional executor should step out permanently rather than retain a contingent right that would create administrative complexity if invoked. The family executors have confirmed in writing (joint letter 6 May 2026) that they prefer PA15 permanent renunciation over PA16 power reserved.
PA16 power reserved narrative:
PA16 power reserved was considered as an alternative to PA15 permanent renunciation. Three factors weighed against PA16: (a) the proving executors are middle-aged, in good health, and reasonably expected to complete the administration; (b) the estate is moderately complex (gross value approximately GBP 1.2m, IHT400 required, BPR claim on Aldworth Engineering Limited shares) but the administration timeline is foreseeable (approximately 18-24 months); (c) the family's express preference is for a clean break — the professional executor permanently steps out rather than retaining a contingent right that could be invoked if either family executor died or ceased to act during the administration. The renunciation under PA15 closes the matter cleanly; if the worst happened and both family executors died, the next-of-kin in priority would apply for Letters of Administration de bonis non administratis under Senior Courts Act 1981 s.116 — a separate route that does not require my participation.
7. MULTI-EXECUTOR RENUNCIATION COORDINATION — CONTINUING EXECUTOR ACKNOWLEDGEMENT. Where the renouncing executor is one of two or more named executors, the proving executor(s) continue alone (or with the remaining co-executors) and the administration proceeds. Under Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114, a maximum of four personal representatives can act on the same grant; where there are minor beneficiaries, a minimum of two PRs is required. The Probate Registry will normally process PA15 without requiring formal acknowledgement from the proving executor(s), but courtesy notification is recommended (and is normal probate practice).
Proving executor acknowledgement: YES — the proving executor(s) have acknowledged the PA15 renunciation in writing and are content to proceed alone (or with the remaining co-executors) — the acknowledgement is on the Probate Registry file.
Proving executor name: Mrs Caroline Anne Aldworth-Bryce (daughter — lead proving executor).
Remaining co-executors continuing:
Mr Robert Charles Aldworth (son of the deceased) — proving the will jointly with his sister Caroline
Mrs Margaret Helen Pemberton (sister of the deceased) — power reserved (PA16 lodged separately on 14 May 2026)
Multi-executor coordination narrative:
The proving executors' position is settled and acknowledged. The PA1P probate application will be filed by Mrs Caroline Anne Aldworth-Bryce and Mr Robert Charles Aldworth as the two proving executors. The third executor (Mrs Margaret Helen Pemberton, the deceased's sister) has elected PA16 power reserved (lodged 14 May 2026). The fourth named executor (the renouncing executor, James Edward Marchant) files this PA15 renunciation in parallel with the PA1P application. The Probate Registry will issue the Grant of Probate in the joint names of Mrs Aldworth-Bryce and Mr Aldworth; PA15 and PA16 will be recorded on the grant's court file. Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114 (maximum four PRs) is not engaged — only two will be acting on the grant. There are no minor beneficiaries (all beneficiaries are adult), so the SCA 1981 s.114 minimum-two requirement is satisfied. Mrs Aldworth-Bryce has expressly acknowledged receipt of the draft PA15 (email dated 12 June 2026) and confirmed the proving executors are content to proceed.
Proving executor acknowledgement: YES — the proving executor(s) have acknowledged the PA15 renunciation in writing and are content to proceed alone (or with the remaining co-executors) — the acknowledgement is on the Probate Registry file.
Proving executor name: Mrs Caroline Anne Aldworth-Bryce (daughter — lead proving executor).
Remaining co-executors continuing:
Mr Robert Charles Aldworth (son of the deceased) — proving the will jointly with his sister Caroline
Mrs Margaret Helen Pemberton (sister of the deceased) — power reserved (PA16 lodged separately on 14 May 2026)
Multi-executor coordination narrative:
The proving executors' position is settled and acknowledged. The PA1P probate application will be filed by Mrs Caroline Anne Aldworth-Bryce and Mr Robert Charles Aldworth as the two proving executors. The third executor (Mrs Margaret Helen Pemberton, the deceased's sister) has elected PA16 power reserved (lodged 14 May 2026). The fourth named executor (the renouncing executor, James Edward Marchant) files this PA15 renunciation in parallel with the PA1P application. The Probate Registry will issue the Grant of Probate in the joint names of Mrs Aldworth-Bryce and Mr Aldworth; PA15 and PA16 will be recorded on the grant's court file. Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114 (maximum four PRs) is not engaged — only two will be acting on the grant. There are no minor beneficiaries (all beneficiaries are adult), so the SCA 1981 s.114 minimum-two requirement is satisfied. Mrs Aldworth-Bryce has expressly acknowledged receipt of the draft PA15 (email dated 12 June 2026) and confirmed the proving executors are content to proceed.
8. SIGNATURE AND WITNESS — NCP RULES 1987 r.37(1). This renunciation is signed by the renouncing executor in the presence of a witness, in accordance with NCP Rules 1987 r.37(1). The witness is a solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales — the most usual witness capacity for PA15 renunciation (provides automatic regulatory cover).
Witness name: Helena Margaret Wexford-Whitlock.
Witness address: Wexford Whitlock Solicitors, 46 Linden Avenue, Kenilworth CV8 1NP.
Witness name: Helena Margaret Wexford-Whitlock.
Witness address: Wexford Whitlock Solicitors, 46 Linden Avenue, Kenilworth CV8 1NP.
RENOUNCING EXECUTOR
James Edward Marchant
Renouncing Executor — 18 June 2026
Date: ____________________
WITNESS
Helena Margaret Wexford-Whitlock
Witness — 18 June 2026
Date: ____________________
Available as a print-ready PDF or an editable Microsoft Word (.docx) file.
What Is Form PA15?
Form PA15 is the United Kingdom probate form filed at the Probate Registry of HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) by a named executor who wishes to formally and permanently relinquish the right to act as executor of a deceased's estate. Renunciation under Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987 r.37 is a permanent step — once filed, the renouncing executor cannot later apply for the grant except with the leave of a registrar in exceptional circumstances (NCP Rules 1987 r.37(3)). The current Crown copyright version is 06.25 (June 2025; remains current for 2026/27).
The form is filed alongside the substantive PA1P (Grant of Probate) or PA1A (Letters of Administration) application by the proving executor or administrator. The renouncing executor signs PA15 in the presence of a witness — typically a solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales, a Commissioner for Oaths, or any disinterested adult of full capacity (a person who is not a beneficiary under the will or otherwise interested in the estate). The Probate Registry processes PA15 alongside the main probate application; the grant is issued in the name of the proving executor(s) only, with the renouncing executor recorded as having renounced under NCP Rules r.37.
A critical constraint applies: the renouncing executor must NOT have "intermeddled" in the estate. Intermeddling means taking acts inconsistent with renunciation — signals of acceptance of the executor role. The classic authority is Long & Feaver v Symes (1832) 3 Hag Ecc 771; the Court of Appeal in Re Stevens [1898] 1 Ch 162 established the finality principle once probate is taken; the modern leading authority is In re Cole [1964] Ch 175. Acts that DO constitute intermeddling: contacting banks or financial institutions in executor capacity, paying estate debts from estate funds, collecting in estate assets, distributing assets to beneficiaries, representing oneself as executor to third parties. Acts that do NOT constitute intermeddling: arranging the funeral, securing estate property for safety, gathering papers for safekeeping, obtaining the death certificate, notifying the will to the family. Where intermeddling has occurred, the renunciation route is closed and the executor must continue or seek court removal under Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114.
What's Covered in This Template
Our United Kingdom Form PA15 template builds a structured executor renunciation the Probate Registry can process — deceased and will identification, renouncing executor identity and co-executor position, formal r.37 renunciation declaration with intermeddling certification, witness execution, and four Expert clauses on the intermeddling test, the PA16 alternative, the sole-executor route, and multi-executor coordination.
06.25 Crown Copyright Revision
The current Crown copyright PA15 revision is dated 06.25 (June 2025; remains current for 2026/27). The template structure matches the current Probate Registry form so completed values can be transferred directly to the official PA15 for filing.
Deceased + Will Identification
Captures the deceased's full name, date of death, last address, will date, and will status (sole will, will plus codicil, or will subsequently held invalid). The will status drives the renunciation framework — different considerations apply where the will's validity is in question.
Renouncing Executor Capacity
Captures the renouncing executor's identity and capacity — individual (family member or friend), professional solicitor, professional accountant, or trust corporation. The most common renunciation scenario is a professional executor stepping back in favour of family executors.
Co-Executor Position
Identifies the position of other executors named in the will — sole executor renouncing (triggers PA1A route), one co-executor proving alone, or two or more co-executors. The co-executor position drives the consequences of renunciation.
Formal NCP Rules r.37 Declaration
The template generates the formal NCP Rules 1987 r.37 renunciation declaration with proper legal wording: "I, [name] of [address], named as executor in the will dated [date] of [deceased], do hereby RENOUNCE all my right and title to a Grant of Probate of the said will."
Intermeddling Certification
Captures the intermeddling certification — no intermeddling (no acts taken), limited acts only (funeral, securing, papers — non-intermeddling under In re Cole [1964]), or concern (seeking legal advice). The certification is critical: false certification exposes the executor to claims of mis-statement.
Intermeddling Test Analysis (Expert)
Expert clause structures the detailed intermeddling analysis under In re Cole [1964] Ch 175. The three classic red flags: bank contact in executor capacity, debt payment from estate funds, asset collection. The clause documents every act taken between DOD and the present with explicit consideration against the leading authority.
PA16 Power Reserved Alternative (Expert)
Expert clause covers the Form PA16 power reserved alternative under NCP Rules r.27. PA16 is fully reversible — the executor retains a contingent right to apply for Grant of Double Probate if the proving executor dies or ceases to act. Preferred where proving executor elderly, in poor health, or estate substantial.
Sole-Executor Route — Letters of Administration (Expert)
Expert clause structures the sole-executor renunciation route. Where the renouncing executor is the SOLE named executor, PA15 closes the executor route entirely; the next-of-kin in priority under NCP Rules 1987 r.20 applies for Letters of Administration with the will annexed via Form PA1A. The will remains valid; its provisions still apply.
Multi-Executor Coordination (Expert)
Expert clause covers Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114 (maximum four PRs; minimum two for minor beneficiaries) and the courtesy notification of proving executor(s). PA15 and PA1P are typically filed together; the Probate Registry processes them in parallel.
Re Stevens [1898] + In re Cole [1964] + Re Biggs [1966] Caselaw
Three leading authorities cited: Re Stevens [1898] 1 Ch 162 (Court of Appeal — renunciation finality principle); In re Cole [1964] Ch 175 (modern leading authority on intermeddling); Re Biggs [1966] P 118 (extended analysis for mistaken intermeddling in limited circumstances).
Witness Execution + Solicitor / Commissioner / Adult
PA15 must be signed in the presence of a witness under NCP Rules r.37(1). The witness can be a solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales (most usual — provides regulatory cover), a Commissioner for Oaths (Commissioners for Oaths Act 1889), or any disinterested adult (not a beneficiary or interested party).
How to Complete Form PA15
Follow these steps to produce a well-structured United Kingdom Form PA15 executor renunciation for filing at the Probate Registry of HM Courts and Tribunals Service.
- 1
Confirm renunciation is the right route (vs PA16 power reserved)
PA15 is permanent and irreversible (Re Stevens [1898] 1 Ch 162). PA16 power reserved is reversible — the executor can later apply for Grant of Double Probate if the proving executor dies or ceases to act. Where uncertainty exists about the future, PA16 is preferable. Where a clean break is desired, PA15 is the route.
- 2
Confirm no intermeddling has occurred
The renouncing executor must NOT have "intermeddled" in the estate. Run through the In re Cole [1964] checklist: have you contacted banks in executor capacity? Have you paid estate debts from estate funds? Have you collected in any estate assets? Have you distributed anything to beneficiaries? Have you represented yourself to third parties as executor? If yes to any, renunciation is likely closed.
- 3
Identify the deceased and the will
Full name of the deceased, date of death, last address, date of the will, and any codicils. Confirm that the will appoints you as executor — usually in a "Trustees" or "Executors" clause naming you and any co-executors.
- 4
Identify your capacity and co-executor position
Are you renouncing as individual (family member or friend), professional solicitor, professional accountant, or trust corporation? Are you the sole executor (triggers PA1A route) or one of two or more (proving executors continue)?
- 5
Confirm the position of the proving executor(s)
Where there are co-executors, identify who will prove the will alone (after your renunciation). The proving executors' courtesy acknowledgement is recommended but not strictly required. PA15 and PA1P are typically filed together.
- 6
Set out your reasons for renunciation
Typical reasons: conflict of interest, lack of capacity to act, geographical distance, ill health, professional executor stepping back in favour of family executors, or simply preference for the proving executor(s) to act alone. The Probate Registry does not normally inquire into reasons but documenting them clearly helps the family understand your position.
- 7
Add the intermeddling test analysis (Expert)
Expert clause structures the detailed intermeddling analysis. Document every act between DOD and now: bank contact, debt payment, asset collection, beneficiary communication. Cross-reference against In re Cole [1964] Ch 175. Where conduct is borderline, take leading counsel advice before filing PA15.
- 8
Consider the PA16 power reserved alternative (Expert)
Expert clause weighs PA15 vs PA16. Three scenarios where PA16 is preferred: (i) proving executor elderly or in poor health; (ii) proving executor geographically vulnerable; (iii) estate substantial with multi-year administration. Document the reasoning.
- 9
Address the sole-executor route if applicable (Expert)
Where you are the sole executor, PA15 triggers Letters of Administration with the will annexed. The next-of-kin in priority under NCP Rules r.20 (mirroring AEA 1925 s.46) applies via Form PA1A. The will remains valid; the administrator handles administration in accordance with the will.
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Coordinate with the proving executor(s) (Expert)
Expert clause covers Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114 (max four PRs; min two for minors) and the courtesy notification of proving executor(s). Send a draft PA15 to the proving executor(s) and obtain their written acknowledgement before filing.
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Sign in the presence of a witness
PA15 must be signed in the presence of a witness under NCP Rules r.37(1). Choose a solicitor (most common), Commissioner for Oaths, or disinterested adult. The witness signs and provides their full name, capacity, and address. Most solicitor firms charge a nominal fee for witnessing a probate document.
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File PA15 with the substantive probate application
File PA15 at the Probate Registry of HMCTS alongside the substantive PA1P (Grant of Probate) or PA1A (Letters of Administration) application. The Probate Registry processes them in parallel; the grant is issued in the name of the proving executor(s) only.
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Legal Considerations — Form PA15 Executor Renunciation
Executor renunciation in England and Wales is governed by the Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987 (SI 1987/2024) — specifically r.37 (renunciation), r.27 (power reserved), r.20 (order of priority for grants), and r.22 (administrator priority on intestacy). The Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114 limits Personal Representatives to a maximum of four. Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate but analogous procedures.
This template is for general information and does not constitute legal advice. Executor renunciation has serious and irreversible consequences — once filed, the renunciation cannot be retracted except in exceptional circumstances. Where there is any doubt about whether intermeddling has occurred, or whether the PA15 permanent route or PA16 reversible route is preferable, consult a solicitor specialising in private client or probate work. The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP) maintains a directory of qualified practitioners.
Reviewed for the United Kingdom (England and Wales)
Statutory Framework — NCP Rules 1987 r.37 + r.27
Executor renunciation is governed by the Non-Contentious Probate Rules 1987 (SI 1987/2024). Rule 37 covers renunciation: the executor formally relinquishes the right to act; the renunciation is made in writing, signed and witnessed; once accepted by the Probate Registry, the renunciation is permanent (r.37(2)). Rule 37(3) provides for retraction with the leave of a registrar in exceptional circumstances — very rarely granted. Rule 27 covers the power reserved alternative: the executor postpones the right to apply while another proves the will; the power reserved executor can later apply for a Grant of Double Probate.
Re Stevens [1898] 1 Ch 162 — Renunciation Finality
The Court of Appeal in Re Stevens [1898] 1 Ch 162 established the finality principle: once a Grant of Probate has been taken in reliance on a renunciation, the renouncing executor cannot be substituted (except in the most exceptional circumstances under NCP Rules r.37(3)). The principle protects the integrity of the probate process and prevents executors from oscillating between accepting and renouncing the role. The modern application of Re Stevens is reinforced by NCP Rules 1987 r.37 itself.
Intermeddling Test — In re Cole [1964] Ch 175 + Re Biggs [1966]
The modern leading authority on intermeddling is In re Cole [1964] Ch 175. The Court defined intermeddling as conduct inconsistent with renunciation — acts that signal acceptance of the executor role. Acts that DO constitute intermeddling: contacting banks or financial institutions in executor capacity; paying estate debts from estate funds; collecting in estate assets; distributing assets to beneficiaries; representing oneself as executor to third parties; receiving income or rents in executor capacity; entering into contracts on behalf of the estate. Acts that do NOT constitute intermeddling: arranging the funeral; securing estate property for safety; gathering papers for safekeeping; obtaining the death certificate; notifying the will to the family; paying urgent bills from one's own funds with intention to be reimbursed. Re Biggs [1966] P 118 extended the analysis to mistaken intermeddling — in very limited circumstances the court may excuse intermeddling where the executor genuinely believed they had no executor capacity.
PA16 Power Reserved Alternative — NCP Rules r.27
Form PA16 power reserved is the reversible alternative to PA15 permanent renunciation. Under NCP Rules 1987 r.27, the executor postpones the right to apply while another named executor proves the will; the power reserved executor can later apply for a Grant of Double Probate if the proving executor dies or otherwise ceases to act. PA16 is fully reversible — the power-reserved executor retains a contingent right. PA16 is preferred where: (i) proving executor elderly or in poor health; (ii) proving executor geographically vulnerable; (iii) estate substantial with multi-year administration where the contingency of the proving executor's death materially affects the outcome.
Sole-Executor Renunciation Route — NCP Rules r.20 + r.22
Where the renouncing executor is the SOLE named executor, PA15 closes the executor route entirely. The next-of-kin in priority under NCP Rules 1987 r.20 (and r.22 mirroring AEA 1925 s.46 beneficial entitlement) applies for Letters of Administration with the will annexed via Form PA1A. The will remains valid; its provisions still apply; the administrator (not executor) handles administration in accordance with the will under AEA 1925 ss.21-43. The priority order: spouse / civil partner (Tier 1); child or grandchild (Tier 2-3); parent (Tier 4); whole-blood sibling (Tier 5); and downward through the intestacy tiers.
Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114 — PR Numbers
Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114 limits the number of Personal Representatives who can act on the same grant to a maximum of four. Where there are minor beneficiaries, a minimum of two PRs is required (to allow for trust administration). Where the renouncing executor is one of multiple named executors, the s.114 limits apply to the continuing executors only. If the will names more than four executors, only four can prove (the others must take power reserved under PA16 or renounce under PA15). If the will names only one executor (and there are minor beneficiaries), the sole executor must consider whether to apply alone (potentially requiring court appointment of a co-administrator under s.114(2)) or seek the appointment of additional PRs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Build Your Form PA15 Executor Renunciation
Produce a structured United Kingdom Form PA15 executor renunciation the Probate Registry of HM Courts and Tribunals Service can process — deceased and will identification, renouncing executor identity and co-executor position, formal NCP Rules 1987 r.37 renunciation declaration with intermeddling certification under In re Cole [1964] Ch 175, witness execution by solicitor / Commissioner / disinterested adult, and four Expert clauses on the intermeddling test pre-renunciation analysis (Re Stevens [1898] + In re Cole [1964] + Re Biggs [1966]), the Form PA16 power reserved alternative under NCP Rules r.27 (Grant of Double Probate), the sole-executor renunciation route to Letters of Administration with the will annexed via Form PA1A, and multi-executor coordination under Senior Courts Act 1981 s.114. Filed at the Probate Registry of HMCTS alongside the substantive PA1P or PA1A application.
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